Yokosuka, Japan (Dec. 21, 2004) - Commanding officer of aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), Capt. Thomas Parker and commanding officer of Japanese Self-Defense Ship Shirane, Capt. Akira Aoki, participate in a traditional Japanese gift exchange.

Yokosuka, Japan (Dec. 21, 2004) - Commanding officer of aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), Capt. Thomas Parker and commanding officer of Japanese Self-Defense Ship Shirane (DDH 143), Capt. Akira Aoki, participate in a traditional Japanese gift exchange. The crew of Shirane delivered two "Kadomatsu," which are traditional Japanese decorations of pine trees and bamboo, placed at the gates of houses and businesses during the New Year season. Kitty Hawk and Shirane are "sister ships" and participated in a variety of joint activities, helping to promote cultural relations and friendship between the United States and Japanese Navies. Currently in port, Kitty Hawk demonstrates power projection and sea control as the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier, operating from Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Tommy Paul Umholtz (RELEASED)