Japanese forces arrive to help
by Senior Airman James C. Dillard
386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
1/30/2004 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- Three Japanese air self-defense force C-130Hs arrived here Jan. 30, bringing to fruition an initial deployment plan Japanese forces thought would never happen.
This is the first time since World War II Japanese troops have deployed supporting humanitarian activities in a hostile area.
The JASDF joins the coalition as they begin deploying troops to Southwest Asia supporting humanitarian projects such as rebuilding schools, offering medical assistance and aiding in mending Iraq's infrastructure.
The approval for the deployment of the JASDF came from Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's cabinet.
Article 9 of Japan's constitution prevents Japan from using war as a foreign policy option. Therefore, a strong stipulation of sending JASDF personnel to support the coalition effort would be that they would be in relatively safe areas. This coincides with their mission, which is a peaceful, humanitarian one.
The move to deploy their troops was a necessary one, said Lt. Col. Nozomu Sasaki, vice commander for the JASDF here.
“I’m very glad we are here,” Colonel Sasaki said. “This is just the first phase of our plan to come here. This represents an important step in the progression in Japanese history.”
JASDF troops arrived early to prepare for the arrival of the C-130s. They have been meeting with their American counterparts, discussing how the 386th AEW's mission will be intertwined with theirs.
"We have developed an outstanding working relationship with the JASDF, and they seem very eager to get going on the mission," said 1st Lt. Dan McConnell, 386th AEW senior intelligence officer. "It's exciting helping to facilitate the JASDF's introduction into theater and to work with them as we combat terrorism."
The Japanese are a welcome addition to the coalition forces here, said Col. Mark Kraus, 386th AEW commander.
"We are delighted to have the support of the Japanese SDF in this noble and necessary cause for freedom,” Colonel Kraus said. “Japan's willingness to support the coalition with humanitarian efforts is a vital step toward ensuring the freedom of the Iraqi people." |
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