By Associated Press Reporter PUBLISHED: 12:38 EST, 19 September 2013 | UPDATED: 16:44 EST, 19 September 2013 Former first daughter Caroline Kennedy said Thursday that she would be humbled to carry forward her father's legacy if confirmed by the Senate to be the next U.S. ambassador to Japan. Testifying before the Foreign Relations Committee, the soft-spoken Kennedy described the crucial bond between the United States and its Asian ally, especially in promoting trade and ensuring strong military ties. She spoke of her own public service and work with the New York City school system. She noted the significance of her nomination on the 50th anniversary of her father's presidency, focusing on his tenure rather than on John F. Kennedy's assassination on Nov. 22, 1963.
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Kennedy, 55, noted the significance of her nomination on the 50th anniversary of her father's presidency
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Her hearing lasted about an hour and 20 minutes and she faced gentle questioning, signalling there should be no obstacles to her appointment
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Kennedy is an attorney and best-selling book editor
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Attending the hearing was Vicki Kennedy, widow of Sen. Ted Kennedy
'I am conscious of my responsibility to uphold the ideals he represented — a deep commitment to public service, a more just @placeholder and a more peaceful world,' Kennedy said.