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Japanese group cleans up Marpi shrine
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Posted on Feb 27 2005
A group of Japanese tourists recently visited Saipan to clean up and maintain the site of the shrine they put up several years ago in memory of those who perished on the island during World War II.
Some 11 members of the Comatsu Chuo Lions Club of Japan and their families accomplished their mission to clean up the Stone Garden in Marpi in a three-day visit on Saipan from February 20 to 22.
The Japanese organization erected the Stone Garden about five years ago, according to the Saipan Unity Lions Club. The local group assisted the Japanese in cleaning up the shrine.
During the Japanese group’s stay on the island, it joined its local counterpart for a dinner and acquaintance party at the Saipan World Resort, before going on sightseeing, golf, and other leisure activities.
Kozo Iwatani led the Japanese group. Other members of the group included Konishi, Kitamura, Sonoda, Honda, Ikeda, and Shima.
Those who actively joined in the cleanup from the Saipan group included Pat Gagaring, Joe Digno, Willie Wagan, Ely Macaspac, Kitz Barja, Ruth Torrecampo, Marites Badal, Arnel Batac, Orlie Ebuen, Atoy Banting, and Dorie Leomo. (John Ravelo)
