24 March 2025 7:30 A.M.
Story and images provided by Neil Supranovich.
In the early hours of a crisp March morning, Ryo Kiyomiya, a dedicated reporter from the esteemed Asahi Shimbun, embarked on a journey from Washington, D.C., to the quaint town of Bristol, Connecticut. Her mission: to chronicle the compelling story of Joe Caminiti, a man preparing for a poignant pilgrimage to Iwo Jima on March 29th.
A Delayed Departure
Kiyomiya’s day began with an unexpected delay at the airport, where she patiently waited for three hours due to unforeseen flight schedules. Undeterred, her resolve to capture Caminiti’s narrative only strengthened during this interlude.
Honoring Heroes: The Iwo Jima Survivors Memorial Park
Upon arrival in Connecticut, Kiyomiya’s first destination was the National Iwo Jima Memorial in Newington. This hallowed ground, conceived and constructed by the Iwo Jima Survivors Association under the leadership of Dr. George Gentile, stands as a testament to the valor of the 6,821 American servicemen who laid down their lives during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Notably, the memorial bears the names of 100 Connecticut men who made the ultimate sacrifice. Unique to this monument is the incorporation of 750 pounds of volcanic sand and rock from Iwo Jima, symbolically connecting Connecticut to the distant shores of the historic battlefield.
A Tribute to Gold Star Families
The journey continued to Berlin, where Kiyomiya visited the Woody Williams Gold Star Families Memorial Monument. This monument, part of a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the Woody Williams Foundation, honors the families who have endured the profound loss of a loved one in military service. The Berlin monument, dedicated in 2022, serves as a place of reflection and recognition for the sacrifices borne by these families.
A Taste of Home at Mission BBQ
In Southington, Kiyomiya experienced a heartfelt gesture of camaraderie at Mission BBQ. The staff, known for their deep respect for veterans and active-duty military personnel, prepared a special dessert adorned with Japanese characters in her honor. This act of kindness resonated with Kiyomiya, reflecting the establishment’s commitment to community and appreciation for cultural exchange.
An Anticipated Narrative
The culmination of Kiyomiya’s journey was an intimate interview with Joe Caminiti and his companion, Gerry, on Saturday evening. While the details of their conversation remain under wraps, anticipation builds for the forthcoming article that will shed light on Caminiti’s motivations and reflections as he prepares to journey to Iwo Jima—a place steeped in history and personal significance.
A Story Bridging Cultures
Kiyomiya’s article, set to be published in both English and Japanese across the United States and Japan, promises to offer readers a profound insight into the enduring bonds forged through shared history, the honoring of sacrifice, and the personal journeys that connect us all across continents and generations.
More about Joe;
World War II Iwo Jima Survivor Joe Caminiti’s 100th Birthday celebration
https://ctvetsbulletin.org/2024/09/30/world-war-ii-iwo-jima-survivor-joe-caminitis-100th-birthday-celebration/
Iwo Jima Survivor Joe Caminiti Returns to Guam and Iwo Jima for 80th Anniversary
https://ctvetsbulletin.org/2025/03/26/iwo-jima-survivor-joe-caminiti-returns-to-guam-and-iwo-jima-for-80th-anniversary/
Bristol’s Joe Caminiti, 100-Year-Old Iwo Jima Survivor, to Return to Historic Battlefield for Reunion of Honor
https://ctvetsbulletin.org/2025/03/17/bristols-joe-caminiti-100-year-old-iwo-jima-survivor-to-return-to-historic-battlefield-for-reunion-of-honor/
A Journey of Honor: Ryo Kiyomiya’s Connecticut Visit to Unveil a Hero’s Story
https://ctvetsbulletin.org/2025/03/24/a-journey-of-honor-ryo-kiyomiyas-connecticut-visit-to-unveil-a-heros-story/
