The Ehime Maru Memorial was adorned with wreaths and floral tributes as the community gathered for the 24th annual remembrance ceremony.

On Sunday, February 9, 2025, the Ehime Maru Memorial Association (EMMA) held the 24th remembrance ceremony of the accident that claimed the lives of nine Japanese crew members, including four high school students on board the Uwajima Fisheries High School training ship Ehime Maru. The ceremony was held at the Ehime Maru Memorial site in Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park.

The ceremony brought together representatives from the the State of Hawaii, Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu, the City and County of Honolulu, INDOPACOM, PACFLT, bereaved family members, and officials from Ehime Prefecture and Uwajima City, including members of the Uwajima Lions Club, Uwajima City Hospital, and various volunteer organizations.

Invocation by Bishop Shuji Komagata

The ceremony brought together representatives from the the State of Hawaii, Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu, the City and County of Honolulu, INDOPACOM, PACFLT, bereaved family members, and officials from Ehime Prefecture and Uwajima City, including members of the Uwajima Lions Club, Uwajima City Hospital, and various volunteer organizations.

Among the distinguished attendees were Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, Consul General Yoshinori Kodama, Deputy Managing Director Krishna Jayaram, Mayor Fumiaki Okahara of Uwajima City, Chairman of the Uwajima City Council Toru Matsumoto, Major General Christopher Faurot, and Commander Naoki Horimoto. More than 100 members of the community joined to pay their respects, reflecting on the loss and the lasting impact of the tragedy.

The ceremony included a moment of silence in remembrance of the victims. Wreaths and flowers were presented by government agencies, organizations, and individuals as a heartfelt tribute.

Message from Governor Tokihiro Nakamura

Although Governor Tokihiro Nakamura of Ehime Prefecture was unable to attend, he sent a heartfelt letter expressing his condolences and gratitude for the annual memorial. He reaffirmed Ehime’s commitment to preserving the memory of the accident and strengthening the bonds between Ehime and Hawaii.

Remarks from Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke

Lieutenant Governor Luke reflected on the tragedy’s significance and the enduring friendship between Japan and the United States.

“The tragedy of Ehime Maru is a sorrowful and significant part of our history that must never be forgotten,” she said. “Through patience, integrity, and aloha, the United States and Japan have emerged from this tragedy with a stronger, more resilient bond.”

Mayor Fumiaki Okahara of Uwajima City

Mayor Okahara expressed his deep sorrow and emphasized the importance of U.S.-Japan relations. He reflected on the friendships formed in the wake of the tragedy and the responsibility to pass on the memory to future generations. He also acknowledged the 20th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Honolulu and Uwajima, highlighting the growing ties between the two cities.

Message from the Bereaved Families

Ms. Mika Makizawa, speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community’s continued support.

“Keeping the memory alive is important for future generations,” she shared. “Each time I return to Hawaii, I feel the warmth and hospitality of this community. This place has become a source of comfort and connection.”

Wreath Presentations

Floral tributes were presented by representatives from:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ehime Prefecture
State of Hawaii
Ehime Prefecture Board of Education
City of Uwajima
City and County of Honolulu
Uwajima City Council
Uwajima Fisheries High School
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command
U.S. Pacific Fleet
Ehime Maru Memorial Association
Uwajima City Hospital
John A. Burns School of Medicine
Friends of the Bereaved Families
I’M EHIME

As the administrator of the Ehime Maru Memorial Association, the Japan-America Society of Hawaii (JASH) remains dedicated to preserving the memory of those lost and ensuring the memorial continues to serve as a place of reflection and remembrance for future generations.