[main article on the stamps is here]

[press release; photos and video stills courtesy USPS]
Gifts of Friendship Forever Stamps Celebrate Centennial of Gift of Dogwoods to Japan
Flowering Dogwood and Cherry Trees Adorn Stamps Issued in U.S. and Japan

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service and Japan Post jointly issued Gifts of Friendship Forever stamps today, celebrating the American issuance during the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC. [The ceremony was held adjacent to the Tidal Basin, with this view nearby —VSC]

The stamps feature beautiful images of flowering dogwood and cherry trees and honor the enduring connection between two nations on the centennial of the gift of dogwood trees from the United States to Japan in 1915.

“These trees bring renewed life each spring after the long winter months and are celebrated on both sides of the Pacific Ocean with annual festivals that echo the spirit of friendship,” said Postal Service Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Nagisa Manabe (left). “I’m honored to be a part of this special moment that honors our collective history and heritage.”

Joining Manabe in dedicating the stamps were National Cherry Blossom Festival President Diana Mayhew and National Conference of State Societies United States Cherry Blossom Queen Rainey Sewell, among others. From left, Judy de Torok, Manager, Industry Engagement and Outreach, Consumer & Industry Affairs, USPS; Diana Mayhew, President, National Cherry Blossom Festival; unidentified; Eriko Minami, Japan Flowering Dogwood Queen; Rainey Sewell, National Conference of State Societies United States Cherry Blossom Queen; USPS CMO Nagisa Manabe.A postal clerk applies the Japanese postmark.
Some VSC members waiting on line outside the autograph and sales tent: On the far left, American Philatelist editor Jay Bigalke and on the far right, Foster Miller.
Above two photographs: Autographing first day ceremony programs.
The sales area. Eriko Minami, Japan Flowering Dogwood QueenRainey Sewell, National Conference of State Societies United States Cherry Blossom QueenJudy de Torok, Manager, Industry Engagement and Outreach, Consumer & Industry Affairs, USPSDiana Mayhew, President, National Cherry Blossom Festival