Ambassador David Gross Honored by Government of Japan with ‘Autumn Imperial Decoration’ of The Order of the Rising Sun

November 3, 2021

Washington, DC – Wiley, a preeminent Washington, DC law firm, is pleased to announce that Ambassador David A. Gross is among the list of foreign recipients of the Government of Japan’s 2021 “Autumn Imperial Decoration.” Amb. Gross, who co-chairs the firm’s Telecom, Media & Technology Practice, is recognized for strengthening the relationship between Japan and the United States in information and communications policy. He received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon.

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon honor is awarded to those who have “distinguished achievements in their field of endeavor.” It is one of the highest honors the Nation of Japan can bestow upon an individual. One of Japan’s oldest and highest national decorations, it is awarded by the Emperor of Japan to non-Japanese citizens who have made outstanding contributions to their field.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” said Amb. Gross. “I’ve dedicated much of my career to international telecommunications and Internet policies, so to be acknowledged for my role as a global policymaker as well as for strengthening the relationship between Japan and the United States is an incredible honor.”

Amb. Gross served for more than seven years at the U.S. State Department as the U.S. Coordinator for International Communications and Information Policy, including as the U.S. Ambassador. In this role, Amb. Gross engaged in bilateral dialogues on policy coordination between Japan and the United States in the area of information and communications and played an important role in developing stronger relationships between the two nations.

The Embassy of Japan acknowledged that Amb. Gross has played an important role in promoting the shared value of a free and open Internet, noting that he promoted policies that were not only in the best interest of Japan and the United States, but also of the world. “We have benefited greatly from [Ambassador] Gross’ friendship to Japan, and wish to extend our deepest gratitude on this wonderful occasion,” the Embassy noted.