Amid China’s military expansion and North Korean threats, Japan’s security relies heavily on maintaining the U.S.-Japan alliance.
U.S. troops stationed in Okinawa are committed to defending Japan, yet face intense protests locally.
This chapter examines the realities of the alliance and the importance of respect for those responsible for national defense.

All U.S. troops stationed in Okinawa have come with the genuine intention of defending Japan.
2018-01-06.
The following is a continuation of the previous chapter.
Sakurai.
Not thinking about national interest is proof that Japan has not been a proper country in the postwar era.
My readers should know that in July 2010 I reluctantly appeared on the internet and was the first person to use the term “national interest” in my commentaries.
Sakurai.
Ideally, Japan should defend itself by its own strength, but China’s military expansion has advanced at a tremendous pace, making it increasingly difficult for Japan to defend itself alone.
Therefore, what is important for Japan is how to maintain the U.S.-Japan alliance.
Just as the United States must think that “the U.S.-Japan security treaty is also important for American national interests,” Japan must also fulfill its role.
It is the same in human relationships.
If one side keeps relying entirely on the other, it will inevitably cause resentment.
Kent.
The U.S. soldiers are all young, but their spirit of protecting peace is truly moving.
All U.S. troops stationed in Okinawa have come with the genuine intention of defending Japan.
Yet when they try to go to work, they are subjected to private checkpoints by left-wing activists, who shout abuse such as “Die, die, U.S. soldiers die!” and bang loudly on their cars.
Extremist activists gather from all over the country, and even individuals suspected of being agents of China or North Korea are mixed among them, yet the Okinawa Prefectural Police response is slow.
Under such circumstances, the U.S. troops inevitably develop complicated feelings.
A senior U.S. military officer I spoke with directly was absolutely furious.
Sakurai.
Their anger is only natural.
Even if it is in the national interest of the United States, when the time comes they are prepared to risk their lives to defend Japan.
Kent.
In the United States they are called “first responders,” those who respond first in times of crisis and protect us, and they are highly respected by the public.
Police officers, firefighters, emergency personnel, and soldiers.
I believe members of the Self-Defense Forces should also be more respected.
This chapter continues.