NAGO CENTRAL COMMUNITY CENTER, Nago city, Okinawa, Japan -- The Nago City Board of Education held an award ceremony March 25 at the Nago Central Community Center where five Marines from Camp Schwab were recognized and awarded certificates of appreciation.

They visited three accredited children’s schools, three nursery schools, and eleven municipal kindergartens in the city regularly during this school year, and were recognized for their contribution in working to spread English education.

Hitomi Higa, the director of the Nago City Children’s Family Division, who spoke on behalf of the city’s Superintendent of Education, said, “I thank everyone of you who has been involved in support of kindergarten in this city. We would really appreciate for your support in upcoming school year as well.”

Marines have been volunteered to visit nursery schools in the city for last 17 years as part of English promotion activities due to the community relation specialist at Camp Schwab, Fumio Iha’s efforts.

The English education is compulsory in Japan for grades three through six starting in the 2020 school year, but Nago city adopted English classes for all grades, including first and second, last year.

The nonprofit organization commissioned by the Board of Education, presented a certificate of appreciation to 35 Marines and seven U.S. citizens who supported with English camp for elementary school students that took place last month.

Also awarded were Col. Jason S.D. Perry, commanding officer of 4th Marine Regiment as well as Camp Schwab’s commanding offer, and his family members.

“I have been participating the visit for last two years and it’s just fun to play with these children,” said Cpl. Felipe D. Ortizescobar, 4th Marine Regiment. “I was going back to the states next month, but I have extended my stay here for another year so I can continue to support the children here.”