Alvin L. and Joan M. (Adkison) Sather of Echo are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary March 30.

Alvin and Joan met while serving in the U.S. Army and Women’s Army Corps. They both worked at the Headquarters Office at Camp Zama, Japan. Alvin proposed to Joan by sending her a cartoon through the office mail.

They married March 30, 1956. Since marrying overseas they have four marriage certificates: one written in Japanese (legal one); American Consulate; Catholic Church; and Camp Zama, Japan. After their ceremony they spent one week at the Military Retreat at Mount Fujiyama, Japan.

Alvin and Joan have five children: Jodi Desjardins of Fox Island, Wash., William Sather of Hermiston, Kristi Bartley of Hermiston, Lauri Stubenrauch of Salem and Shari Humphrey of Hermiston. They also have eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

Alvin retired as First Sergeant, U.S. Army, and Joan retired as Administrative Officer, McNary Dam Corps of Engineers. They enjoy camping, visiting the coast and spending time with family.