Kawano Katsutoshi

Born in Hokkaidō in 1954. After graduating from the National Defense Academy, joined the Maritime Self-Defense Force. Studied at the US Naval War College, receiving the institution’s highest award for his graduation thesis. Became chief of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2014. Retired in April 2019 after receiving three extensions beyond the normal retirement age, staying in the role for an unprecedented four and a half years.