Self-Defense Force Day Reception and 2023 Conferral of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon on former Chief of Australian Army LTGEN Richard Burr (Rtd)
2024/12/6
Conversations in full swing
Ambassador SUZUKI giving his speech
On the 27th of November 2024, the Embassy of Japan held a Self-Defense Force Day Reception. The reception commemorates the formation of the Japan Self-Defense Force, this year is also a milestone as it marks the 70th anniversary the Ministry of Defense and Self-Defense Force. Invitees include members of the Australian Defence Force, security and defence-related individuals including Australian politicians, high-level officials from the Department of Defence and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, ambassadors, high commissioners and defence attaches from other countries as well as academics. The reception aims to contribute to the further strengthening of the relationship between Japan and Australia.
At this year’s reception, following performances of both nations’ anthems and a speech by Ambassador SUZUKI, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, Chief of the Defence Force, gave an address as the Guest of Honour (Ambassador SUZUKI’s speech can be read here).
The reception was also combined with a conferral ceremony for former Chief of Army Lieutenant General Richard Burr, AO, DSC, MVO (Rtd). While guests attending the reception looked on, Lieutenant General Burr received the Order of the Rising Sun as a 2023 awards recipient for his exemplary contribution to deepening Japan-Australia defence ties.
In support of Japanese businesses, the reception also featured booths set up by Japanese relevant companies. They showcased scale models, supplied pamphlets and facilitated direct conversation between guests and corporate representatives in order to communicate Japan’s highly technologically capable defence equipment.
Under balmy late Spring skies in the Ambassador’s Residence Garden, many guests greatly enjoyed Japanese sake and sushi made by the Ambassador’s personal chef. The reception an opportunity for guests to deepen both their mutual relations and understanding of Japan.
At this year’s reception, following performances of both nations’ anthems and a speech by Ambassador SUZUKI, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, Chief of the Defence Force, gave an address as the Guest of Honour (Ambassador SUZUKI’s speech can be read here).
The reception was also combined with a conferral ceremony for former Chief of Army Lieutenant General Richard Burr, AO, DSC, MVO (Rtd). While guests attending the reception looked on, Lieutenant General Burr received the Order of the Rising Sun as a 2023 awards recipient for his exemplary contribution to deepening Japan-Australia defence ties.
In support of Japanese businesses, the reception also featured booths set up by Japanese relevant companies. They showcased scale models, supplied pamphlets and facilitated direct conversation between guests and corporate representatives in order to communicate Japan’s highly technologically capable defence equipment.
Under balmy late Spring skies in the Ambassador’s Residence Garden, many guests greatly enjoyed Japanese sake and sushi made by the Ambassador’s personal chef. The reception an opportunity for guests to deepen both their mutual relations and understanding of Japan.
Ambassador SUZUKI and former Chief of Australian Army LTGEN Richard Burr
Remarks by LTGEN Richard Burr
Introducing guests to Japanese sake and whiskey
Relevant company exhibits
Chef TAKAMI creating sushi