CAMP ITAMI, JAPAN --- An opening ceremony for Yama Sakura 69 was held at the Japan Ground Self Defense Force Middle Army Headquarters on Camp Itami, Japan, Dec. 5, 2015.

The ceremony marked the beginning of the annual bilateral training exercise between members of the United States Military and the Japan Self Defense Force.

The United States element, which includes members from all military branches, is led by the United States Army's I Corps. Combined with the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force Middle Army, they form a force of over 5,000 strong for the 34th annual training event.

The commander of the JGSDF Middle Army spoke of the mission for YS 69 and the mission for his Soldiers during the exercise.

"Its purpose is to train command and staff activities of JGSDF and US Forces to conduct bilateral operations under different chain of commands and to maintain and enhance our operational capabilities," said Lt. Gen. Junji Suzuki, commanding general, Middle Army. "We will continue to further solidify our alliance and ensure peace and independence of our country and regional stability on the basis of trust and friendship."

Lt. Gen. Stephen Lanza, I Corps commanding general, expressed his confidence in the Soldiers and their mission.

"Our forces share the most important characteristics of professional military organizations: We are disciplined, dedicated to improving ourselves, and we are committed to our Nations and our alliance," said Lanza. "The I Corps team is genuinely looking forward to this opportunity to work with Lt. Gen. Suzuki and the tremendous Middle Army team."

The two-week training event is the largest bilateral command post exercise for the two nations. Based on computer simulation, JGSDF and the US Forces practice bilateral staff activities to respond to an armed attack on Japan.