On July 10, the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston hosted an award ceremony and reception to confer the imperial decoration of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette upon Mr. Glen Yoshiaki Gondo for his contributions to promoting the mutual understanding between the United States and Japan and introducing Japanese culture in the United States. Mr. Gondo was one of 40 foreign recipients around the world who the Government of Japan chose to distinguish with the 2013 Spring Imperial Decoration.
The ceremony was held at the residence of the Consul-General of Japan and was attended by city and state officials, leaders in the Japanese community, and close friends and family of Mr. Gondo. Mr. Gondo attended the ceremony with his wife, Kathleen, and his son, Robert. Acting-Consul General Takahiko Watabe began the ceremony with opening remarks, describing Mr. Gondo’s numerous achievements that merited his earning the decoration (Link). Mr. Gondo’s close friend Ms. Donna Cole then gave a speech, sharing personal reflections and congratulations with the more than 100 guests in attendance. Congratulatory remarks from Mr. Jay Guerrero on behalf of U.S. Senator John Cornyn, from Ms. Alice Chen on behalf of Congressman Al Green, and from Mayor Pro-Tem Ed Gonzalez on behalf of Houston Mayor Annise Parker were then delivered. Acting Consul-General Watabe then officially conferred upon Mr. Gondo the decoration of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette. Mr. Gondo gave a speech in which he thanked his parents, his family, and his friends for their guidance and support. As a close to the ceremony, Asia Society Texas Center President Charles Foster gave a congratulatory toast to Mr. Gondo’s continued success.
For further information about Mr. Gondo’s specific achievements, please refer to the April 29, 2013 Press Release (link). |
 
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