27 August 2008

Occupation forces - angry thoughts

A few angry thoughts on American military presence here. To my American friends - you may want to skip this one...
We met these three American soldiers yesterday night and I can't even tell how angry they made me. Already when we met them one of them started telling us how prejudiced and "racist" the Japanese were. Obviously they were not allowed in in some bars. Hell, if I had a bar here I wouldn't want it to be the next GI bar - and I have seen how these guys often behave in Fukuoka. Second, how does America treat any non-American these days?! Third, what the hell are you still doing in this country?! And why do you think you have a right to be here? Fourth, you are ignorant "white trash" who don't even make the slightest effort to learn the language or culture. Fifth, you behave in a totally rude manner that must be an offense to the Japanese. Sixth, what would you do if Japanese soldiers were staying in your country?!
They were so stereotypically American and if America send people like this on missions it is not surprising that it's attracting more and more resistance and even hatred. I have met awesome Americans, but the soldiers here (and I've seen many more in Fukuoka) are just disgusting. You'd think that they learn something while being abroad for a while. The guys yesterday evening have all spent 18 months in Japan already. But they deem it totally unnecessary to learn anything about this culture.
They said the Japanese are lucky that they are here because the island is economically underdeveloped. What an arrogance! I know that economic interests play a heavy role in the discussion - and it is a heated political discussion here in Japan. I don't see any reason why they should still be here and I understand any Japanese being somewhat hostile towards loud, rude American soldiers lacking and manners and culture!
Also there was a case of rape of a 14-year old Japanese by an American marine. What would be the reaction to that in the US? Also you have no idea what it means to have foreign troups being in your country for the past over 50 years. But they think it's the most natural thing to be still there.
I can't recount in what a rude manner they behaved. And what disgustingly ignorant, stupid and arrogant views they displayed. Unfortunately the British and French guys wanted to hang out with them. I just felt a lot, a lot, a lot of anger... They said the Japanese think they are superior to them. And yes, I would agree with them.

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