HILARY HOSIA
Laureen Joab Batol became the first Marshallese to receive the prestigious “Order of The Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays” award that is bestowed only by the Emperor of Japan.
Japan Ambassador to Marshall Islands Kazunari Tanaka presented the award to Laureen during a conferring ceremony at the Japanese Embassy in Delap last Thursday.
Family members, Parliament members, members of the Assembly of God Church, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade witnessed the ceremony.
The fact that portraits of the Japanese Imperial Family — Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako were displayed at the conferring ceremony is testament of the rare occasion.
The Order of The Sacred Treasure dates back to 1888 by Emperor Meiji. An adjustment of the order approved in 2003 and had since been awarded to military and public servants who showcased loyalty and long-term public service to Japan.
Laureen has been a dedicated member of the Japanese Embassy in Majuro since her family moved to Majuro in the early 2000s, Vice Speaker Isaac Zackhras said in his remarks on behalf of the government and as a family member.
Laureen has been with the Japan Embassy for 23 years and seven months, a fact shared by an emotional Laureen during her note of thanks.