WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Naval District Washington commemorated the arrival of the first Japanese Embassy to the United States in May 14, 1860 by hosting a plaque dedication and unveiling ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard, May 13.

The plaque, now permanently displayed in Willard Park in the Washington Navy Yard, was donated by the Society of Descendants of the First Japanese Embassy. 

More than 100 guests from the Society of Dependents of the First Japanese Embassy to the United States of America, 1860 Inc.; Japan America Society of Washington; prominent Japanese Americans and government employees working at the Washington Navy Yard attended to witness the historic ceremony. 

Distinguished guests included former United States Secretary of Transportation, Norman Mineta; Deputy Chief of Mission, Atsuyuki Oike of the Embassy of Japan; and Commandant, Naval District Washington Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey. 

Lindsey welcomed guests in attendance while addressing the crowd during his opening speech and spoke about the efforts to make the ceremony and the plaque a reality for Takashi Muragaki.

"For over a year Mr. Muragaki has steadfastly shepherded the effort to put in this special place a fitting reminder of the historic event that we're celebrating today," said Lindsey. "Mr. Muragaki, we're inspired by your dedication and your loyalty to the memory and legacy of your ancestors. It's been a pleasure to work with you throughout these past several months. Your kindness, consistency and patience epitomize the diplomatic charisma demonstrated in this place by your ancestor so many years ago."

Muragaki is chairman of the Society of Descendants of the First Japanese Embassy and a fourth generation descendant of Vice Ambassador, Norimasa Awajinokami Muragaki. He thanked Naval District Washington for bringing the plaque dedication ceremony to fruition. 

"With sincere gratitude and joy I welcome you to the plaque unveiling ceremony commemorating the historic arrival of the First Japanese Embassy to the United States of America in 1860," said Muragaki. "Tomorrow marks the 156th anniversary of this historic event."

Japan's first diplomatic trip to the United States occurred May 14, 1860, when the steamer Philadelphia brought the first Japanese delegation to Washington, D.C. Three Japanese Ambassadors, including Norimasa Awajinokami Muragaki, were received at the Washington Navy Yard.

According to Muragaki, his ancestor participated in establishing the first solid bond of friendship between the two nations 156 years ago. 

"Today the shared history between the United States and Japan continues," said Muragaki. "This plaque presentation culminates collaboration with honored attendees of both countries."

The ceremony culminated with the unveiling of the plaque which reads: "In commemoration of the arrival of the First Japanese embassy to the United States of America at the Washington Navy Yard on the 14th day of May 1860. We honor and remember the first historic visit of 77 Japanese members of the Edo government of Japan and the long-lasting friendship between the United States of America and Japan. Presented this 13th day of May 2016 to the Unites States Navy by the Society of Descendants of the First Japanese Embassy to the United States of America 1860."