2026 Spring Conferment of Decoration - Former Commander, United States 7th Fleet Frederick W. Kacher

On April 29, 2026 (Japan Time), the Government of Japan announced the 2026 Spring Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals, with Frederick W. Kacher, Former Commander, United States 7th Fleet, being one of the recipients. In recognition of his contributions towards strengthening relations between Japan and the United States in the area of defense, he will receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.

• DECORATION: The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star
• SERVICE: Contributed to strengthening relations between Japan and the United States in the area of defense
• NAME: Frederick W. Kacher
• MAJOR TITLE: Former Commander, United States 7th Fleet
• ADDRESS (NATIONALITY): Washington, D.C. (United States of America)

As Commander of the United States 7th Fleet, Vice Admiral Kacher significantly contributed to Japan's defense by enhancing interoperability between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the United States Navy through the Japan-U.S. Bilateral Joint Exercise (Command Post Exercise) and other means, thereby strengthening the joint deterrence and response capabilities of Japan and the United States. Furthermore, he not only improved bilateral defense cooperation between Japan and the United States, but he also contributed to the realization of a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" by conducting joint exercises among Japan, the United States, and the Republic of Korea, as well as Japan, the United States, Australia, and India, and by working to strengthen multilateral coordination and cooperation. In addition, he promoted friendship, goodwill, and mutual understanding with Japan by organizing exchanges between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the United States 7th Fleet, as well as events for local residents.