Komatsu America Corp., a leading manufacturer and supplier of construction, mining and compact construction equipment, celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Chattanooga manufacturing operation on November 6.More than 100 special guests were on hand to commemorate the achievements and reflect on the history of Komatsu’s first U.S. manufacturing plant.

Komatsu’s Chattanooga plant, which boasts more than 300 employees, manufactures hydraulic excavators and articulated dump trucks for the North American market.

"This anniversary underscores Komatsu’s commitment to the North American market," said Dave Grzelak, chairman and CEO of Komatsu America Corp. "Over the past 20 years, we have enjoyed a reputation built on an experienced work force, a strong allegiance to our supplier base and to the Chattanooga community and a commitment to the area’s economic growth. As we continue to  xpand Komatsu’s presence throughout the United States, we remain loyal to these initial principles upon which the company was founded."

The anniversary celebration included remarks from Komatsu executives Masahiro Sakane, president and CEO, Komatsu Ltd. in Japan; Grzelak; and Dennis Riddell, general manager of the Chattanooga operation. Tennessee State Commissioner of Economic & Community Development Matt Kisber, Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield and Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey also spoke.

The cornerstone of the celebration was the planting of a ceremonial cherry tree on the facility property. As the national tree of Japan, a cherry tree was planted at the site 20 years ago.

Over the years Chattanooga’s Komatsu plant has manufactured thousands of Komatsu machines. In April 2007, the plant will produce its 34,000th machine. Today the plant’s main focus is on mid-size hydraulic excavators and articulated dump trucks. The operation covers 488,000 square feet and sits on 53 acres of property.