Save the M.C. Perry School name, colors and Samurai Mascot

We, former students of Matthew C. Perry Schools, were informed that as a result of expansion, new schools were being built on MCAS Iwakuni and that the school name, colors and mascot could potentially change. The following describes why this petition was created:

"Upon returning to the United States, DoDDs students are often isolated by the mere fact that they attended a school in a foreign country. One of the primary symbols of connection among these students is the school they attended while they were in that country and the students with whom they shared their unique experience overseas. Their schooling is a legacy that provides a strong and unique bond for these American students.

This is why former students of Matthew C. Perry Elementary and High Schools urge administrators to cease in their pursuit to change the name of the school, the colors and the Samurai mascot.  The Samurai is an honorable and incredible symbol of strength, integrity, growth, determination, leadership and dedication. Likewise, Matthew C. Perry, himself is a similar symbol, embodying the same characteristics. They, along with the school colors (maroon and white), are a legacy that former students hold strong. Changing them would discredit the experience of thousands of students.

This change is unwarranted and unwelcomed by those who fought to make the school what it is today. Go Samurai!"

This petition is the voice of hundreds of Samurai who are not only alumni but simply former students (including several who made M.C. Perry history in sports and other organizations) with a strong connection to the Perry school experience. We are begging leaders to help save our rich Perry Samurai, maroon and white legacy.

Thank you for hearing our voice and saving our school legacy.

We, former students of Matthew C. Perry Schools, were informed that as a result of expansion, new schools were being built on MCAS Iwakuni and that the school name, colors and mascot could potentially change. The following describes why this petition was created:

"Upon returning to the United States, DoDDs students are often isolated by the mere fact that they attended a school in a foreign country. One of the primary symbols of connection among these students is the school they attended while they were in that country and the students with whom they shared their unique experience overseas. Their schooling is a legacy that provides a strong and unique bond for these American students.

This is why former students of Matthew C. Perry Elementary and High Schools urge administrators to cease in their pursuit to change the name of the school, the colors and the Samurai mascot.  The Samurai is an honorable and incredible symbol of strength, integrity, growth, determination, leadership and dedication. Likewise, Matthew C. Perry, himself is a similar symbol, embodying the same characteristics. They, along with the school colors (maroon and white), are a legacy that former students hold strong. Changing them would discredit the experience of thousands of students.

This change is unwarranted and unwelcomed by those who fought to make the school what it is today. Go Samurai!"

This petition is the voice of hundreds of Samurai who are not only alumni but simply former students (including several who made M.C. Perry history in sports and other organizations) with a strong connection to the Perry school experience. We are begging leaders to help save our rich Perry Samurai, maroon and white legacy.

Thank you for hearing our voice and saving our school legacy.