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Video by Daisuke Sato

Ugly Sweater Making with Japan-America Society Central Kanagawa

U.S. Army Garrison - Japan

Nov. 15, 2019 | 2:46

Narration:
The commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan at Camp Zama and his wife invited members of the Japan-America Society of Central Kanagawa to their home, where their guests experienced one of the more unique American holiday traditions.

Interview: Amy Matelski, spouse

Narration:
During the event, each participant brought their own sweater and were free to decorate it—the ultimate goal being to make it as tacky, gaudy and, yes, ugly as they wanted to, using a variety of decorative items.

Interview: Junko Kurosawa, Japan-America Society of Central Kanagawa
The event was great. We felt like we were at home. There are well-known American holidays and observances such as Christmas, Halloween and Easter, but not many Japanese know about the “ugly sweater” tradition. It is a bit of a different atmosphere than a typical Christmas party, and everyone seemed more relaxed and enjoyed making their sweater. I think the event helped to foster our friendship even more.

Interview: Fujiko Masunaga, Japan-America Society of Central Kanagawa
I participated in the ugly sweater event last year. I really like the fun and lively atmosphere of this event. Of course you are making an ugly sweater, but it is as if we are all playing a game together. With events like today’s, I think they are a great opportunity for both of us to exchange and understand each other’s cultures.

Interview: COL Thomas R. Matelski, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Japan

Narration:
The Japan-America Society was established in 1978 in order for to build engagement between the U.S. military in Japan and members of their host country at a grassroots level.

Interview: Yasuhiro Kojima, President, Japan-America Society of Central Kanagawa
I hope our members in the JA Society are able to have meaningful exchanges with our American friends here. Some of them may have be able to form relationships and make friends at an individual level. Our society is here to create those opportunities for our members to make friends with the service members and their families on post.

Interview: COL Thomas R. Matelski, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Japan

Narration:
Reporting for U.S. Army Garrison Japan, this is XXXXXXXX.