Abdication: The End of the Heisei Era

Today marks the end of the Heisei Era. The 85-year-old Emperor Akihito has abdicated the  Chrysanthemum Throne in the Kenji to Shokei no gi ceremony thus marking the end of his peaceful thirty-year reign. We will miss this kind benevolent Emperor who had sought to heal the wounds of war committed in his father's name. His life's mission near complete, he had visited many if not most of the countries and battlefields to pray for Japan's fallen and for Japan's victims of war. His reign is marked as an era of Peace for Japan. It is understandable and most reasonable for him to retire to become Emperor Emeritus given his advanced age. Now in his twilight years, he passes on the torch to Crown Prince Naruhito who will become the new Reiwa Emperor in an era named for orderly peace and harmony. We at American Mishima wish The Heisei Emperor and Empress Michiko a peaceful retirement and joy in their golden years. We would like to thank the Heisei Emperor for all his kindness and efforts to bring about peace during his reign. He will be missed.

The Final Flight of the Last Doolittle Raider

Retired Lt. Col. Dick Cole, the last living member of the Doolittle Raiders has passed away at the age of 103. Born in 1915, Dick Cole, went on to serve during the Korean War. He remained very active through 2018, attending air shows and public events. For his final flight, we at American Mishima salute his service and didcation to his country. May he rejoin his squadron in heaven.

Godspeed Dick Cole, Godspeed.

American Mishima Web Series Episode 5

Here's our latest Author Web Series episode where we discuss our latest book, ROBOT PLANET.

New Era Named

By now, everyone should know the name of the new era that will begin after Emperor Akihito abdicates on Tuesday, April 30th, 2019. The new era will be known as the Reiwa Era - meaning be in harmony. Unlike other eras, the name is not taken from the Chinese Classics but rather a traditional Japanese poem of antiquity. We at American Mishima like the sound of harmony. It is a positive aspiration for both Crown Prince Naruhito when he becomes the new Emperor, Japan, and perhaps, for the world itself so that all peoples may live in harmony. Reiwa!