Alleged rape incident at Atsugi may grate on nagging defense issues

Horribly written article with no facts, just speculation. This soldier was exposed to heavy war fare, in fact he almost died in Iraq along with his Comrads.

And yes he was punished but not for something he did, in fact it was the higher ranking officer who performed the act and most likely threatened the girl to put the blame on soldier, A.

I know all of this because he is my family and my other brother from the marines was with him the day this alleged incident happened.

All of these people below don't know what we've been through and who my brother really is as a person. He is a great guy who was engaged but this entire case ruined his life. Now he is considered dishonorable, is alone and can't find a job.

He left his fiance behind because he didn't want her to bedragged into all of this drama. Even though she wanted to be with him. My brother sacrificed so much for one Japanese lady to ruin it all because she was too scared to report the higher ranking officer. The man who really committed these crimes.

No evidence was found on her, my brother home or at the bar. Yet the U.S. put the blame on him. He served 9 years in jail and will continue serving the rest of his life, as the U.S., his commanding officer and this girl ruined his life.

Every day for years, I read this article and it makes me sick to my stomach. Such bull crap that doesn't make any logical sense.

I was stationed in atsugi 1970 until 1973.we had no problems everything was niceand we all respected each other.then a new generation of children with a screwed up mentality.joined the military.case closed.the Japanese are very nice people.

Can't have a rape story without a healthy dose of victim blaming!

I've had enough of this. Close the bases. Japan is a strong country. We can take care of ourselves. This is the kind of thing that is causing more and more people to dislike foreigners. Yes, while it is a minority of idiots acting like that, apparently that is more than enough to cause public outrage. The US would not like China to put a military base in NYC, so why should the US think they should have a base in Japan? The Japanese government NEEDS to listen to the people and kick the US bases out of Japan.

Mr Wooster,

While I appreciate your comments, I find some of them to be especially troubling;

However, the crime was committed in Japan and I think the person concerned should be tried and punished under Japanese law.

What crime? Perhaps you didn’t fully read the article but the Japanese Police have yet to issue an arrest warrant for the young sailor – what we have is merely an allegation of a crime. Even if an arrest warrant is issued, one is innocent until convicted in a court of law. Are you perhaps acting as “judge, jury and executioner”?

To put it another way, how would you feel if you were walking home from the train station and passed a young women – several hours later, the Police arrive at your home and accuse you of sexually molesting her. The police say they are investigating you for the crime, but as of yet have no evidence to arrest you. Yet, the next day, the local newspaper carries a story entirely slanted towards the women’s version of events – stating you molested her and your behavior is typical of all members from “X” country…….

If the police gather evidence that substantiates the victim’s claims and issue an arrest warrant, the sailor will be placed on international hold and confined to his base. Once indicted, or if Japan requests a pre-indictment transfer of custody, he’ll be handed over to Japanese authorities. If at the conclusion of a trial, he is convicted, then he will serve time in a Japanese prison. And – once that conferment is over, he may be tried by the US military under the UCMJ and jailed again. But that is all yet to be determined, and you claiming that he committed a “crime” is entirely presumptive and, may I add, unjustly unfair.

How many Okinawans are against the bases?

That’s a question that cannot be answered as it is posed – it requires further definition, such as;

How many Okinawans are against the bases remaining without any subsidies from the central government? My guess would be a majority…….

How many Okinawans are against the bases remaining with substantial subsidies from the central government?

My guess is a minority, mostly far left and anti-US elites (academics, media and politicians)……

And if Japan had to defend itself, and stand on its own two feet, it might buck things up a bit and we might get some real dialogue happening between Japan and its neighboring countries. You never know, we might even get some real politicians!

And whom may these real politicians be; Tokyo Governor Ishihara? Ex-General Toshio Tamogami? I see you are not a student of history, for if you were, you would understand that having Japan “buck up” and being led by a gang of far-right wing nuts like this would only lead to one thing - another devastatingly real war.

Another American is hiding on base after committing a rape. You can bet he is in the enlisted billeting and not under confinement. No evidence, no crime and this is so typical. Remember ladies report the crime to the Japanese Police and make sure you visit hospital. It would of been different if he was arrested by the Japanese police.

Blacklabel-san,

Whether Japan is forced to host the US military in Japan is a matter of viewpoint. Many Okinawans I speak to describe it in those terms. Certainly many people say that they are inconvenienced by the bases. Noise, having to detour miles to get round Kadena, drunks, fights, danger and violence.

How many Okinawans are against the bases?

I'm surprised that there has been no referendum recently to find out exactly how Okinawans feel about the situation.

Probably the reason is that if they did so, such a large number of people would say they were against the bases that the Japanese government would have to do something about it and that would embarrass them.

I like your 3K explanation. They don't like to do dirty work and would much rather pay someone else to do it for them. That is part of it, certainly. But I think it's beginning to change with the new generations. There is a strong movement for Japan to defend itself.

I don't entirely agree that young Japanese people wouldn't join up. Certainly, the mummy's boy juku addicts wouldn't want to because it would mess with their Todai plans. But there are a lot of energetic young people out of work who would jump at the chance to wear a uniform, look cool and make good money. The kids who ride around on motorbikes - bosozoku - would love it, I'm sure.

And if Japan had to defend itself, and stand on its own two feet, it might buck things up a bit and we might get some real dialogue happening between Japan and its neighbouring countries. You never know, we might even get some real politicians!

@BertieWooster-san: I just dont think Japan is forced to have US military in Japan. I think it is more part of the "3k's" (kitanai, kiken, and kitsui). It is just easier for Japan to pay someone else to take care of their defense. Do you really think the majority of the Japanese young people have any interest in joining the military or protecting their country other than in a time of actual war? Its dirty, dangerous and hard so It is easier (and cheaper?) to contract that out to someone else. It especially made sense during the bubble economy when Japan was "rich", but I dont know how much sense it makes in these harder times. But with the current yen rate, the cost to host US troops is probably quite low when paid in dollars/.

The USA was already here since 1945 and while I wasnt alive then I think the USA was thought of as being fair to Japan in the years after the war. So Japanese just accepted that the US were "friends" now and would be the ones to protect them from Korea and China.

I dont know much about politics but if a party is elected and the leaders they pick do not follow the will of the people, then that party needs to be voted out. It is unfortunate that Japan is unable to directly pick leaders, so this is going to be an ongoing problem of lies and broken promises. But that also happens in the USA so I dont know how we fix that part. It is just easy to say that the Japanese government has not asked US military to leave, so they must be wanted/needed here.

I have to agree with some of the comments: why would she walk him home if she already knew his conduct? I hope she can recover soon and the next time to be a little more judgmental.

I'm confused by this newspaper's "investigation". The incident happened outside a base in Kanagawa prefecture, yet the newspaper is interviewing a lawyer unrelated to the case in OKINAWA?!

The responsibility mostly lies with the Japanese government who allows US bases to be located in residential areas.

Atsugi air base was constructed by the IJN in 1938. THE IJN selected the location, not the U.S.

Jerbot-san,

I appreciate your input. You have obviously given thought to this matter.

On a political level, I'm sure the US government wants to keep bases in Japan and the Japanese government is willing to go along with them.

On a day to day level, especially in a small island like Okinawa, there are inconveniences.

Large inconveniences.

Acts of violence can only be expected, for, as has been pointed out, the servicemen stationed here are young, spirited and, well, soldiers. My father was in the RAF and I am not unfamiliar with service life. I was brought up in it.

Guys get drunk and do stupid things, I know.

Rape, however, is over the line, in my opinion.

Your criticism of the justice system in Japan is, sadly, quite correct, in my estimation. I saw this first hand when I interpreted for the prison in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

However, the crime was committed in Japan and I think the person concerned should be tried and punished under Japanese law.

Such as it is.

Berlie, they are wanted. It just isn't proper to say. There is a strong need for their presence that is in the strong interest of the US, and that is their right as agreed upon in the peace treaty between the two nations. They have been very fair and dutiful and less likely to commit crimes for an analogous population of off-duty persons of the straw-man nation. There is also a very strong need by that nation for the presence and the proximity, as well as the establishment and technology. I appreciate your free thinking and statements, and I hope that these observations help you to develop them.

In this matter, to be fair, the seemingly appropriate thing to do would be to come forward, for A; unfortunately, the justice system in Japan is commonly known to be archaic, inhumane, and extremely unjust. I can't blame A. I wouldn't want to serve ten years for attempted rape our waste the justice department's time if I truly felt innocent. On the flip side, a delayed sentence served to a man who is likely to be excommunicated and is already locked out could be seen as a waste of time to the Japanese. Let the Americans deal with the filthy son of a gun if he really is such a bad guy. Maybe they have a method. Just keep him out if he won't come forward because the civil matter can be decided upon internationally and is the victim's caseload, anyway. To the same point, exile by imprisonment shares the most important value/element--the verb.

Blacklabel-san,

Japan is not being "forced" to do anything.

You know this, for a fact, do you?

If you have any further information on this, we would love to hear it.

The leadership elected by the people of Japan has obviously determined it is in Japan's best interest to have US forces here, or they wouldnt be here.

Well, the people of Japan didn't elect a leadership. They elected a party. And that party chose its leaders. And that party and that leadership are having a bit of a rough time right now.

Do you really think the Democratic party has determined that it is in Japan's best interest to host US forces in this country?

Or was it a foregone conclusion?

I wish I had your faith, Blacklabel-san.

But I'm afraid I don't.

Japan is not being "forced" to do anything. The leadership elected by the people of Japan has obviously determined it is in Japan's best interest to have US forces here, or they wouldnt be here.

Kyle-san,

Why should japan be forced to pay for american soldiers on their land.

Why indeed?

JT, have no fear. I'm not going to hit this back and forth like Ai in ping pong. But the military is comprised of a whole lot of early teens and twenties. Most importantly, adult leadership, too. @AlternateU appears to be a brilliant man (tongue in cheek), however ignorant to U.S. military matters. @KyleS "Why should Japan be forced to pay for American soldiers on their land". Do you ask such a question because you haven't researched our agreement with this wonderful nation? I'm glad they do, they are one of the very few nations who lays down the mulah. Most of the other countries we support and defend beg for extensions or waivers.

Why should japan be forced to pay for american soldiers on their land.

It is very curious that it's difficult to find more information on this story.

I've googled and googled and there's nothing much more than there is here.

It rather looks like someone is clamping it down.

Since you are not in the U.S. military, you do not know.

So you are in the military, so you know that no records were ever expunged?? Or you are saying that the article I provided is a lie?

"one rotten banana spoils the whole bunch" does not apply to the military or the USA.

I don't know if the petty officer is a rotten banana. And I don't believe he spoils the whole bunch if he is.

We are a microcosm of our nation, like it or don't.

A tribe of mostly late teen and early twenties males is a microcosm of the U.S.A.? Not a chance. The military is no more representative of the nation than the petty officer!

Like I said before, double jeopardy.

Whoa! Now your write like I declared him guilty. I did no such thing! Are you pigeon holing people as being one of two possible sides here? How very small minded! This is not a war. This is a discussion. But you and the thumbs down crew are prosecuting it like a war. Just stop it. My opinions are tailored to the issue, not centered around some petty side taking. You know, unlike some people who are going to say anything to make the military look good and to hell with the truth.

I suggest you bring a better screening process to the table.

Why? I already said most take their second chance and behave, even if it is hard to trust them with our sisters given their past and manner. But of course if you are going to pigeon hole me as just be anti anything military, that won't sink in too far.

@AlternateUniverse I hope my statement isn't feeding your sarcasm. I qualified my statement by saying "back in my day, the judges..." . How long ago? It doesn't matter because you're going to sit on your perch, spitting out more of what YOU and @BertieWooster think is "food for thought". The military culture is like any other culture, we have our rules and regulations, standards, and customs and in our ranks we do have the good, the bad, and the indifferent. We have had incidences of our own turning against us or poorly representing what we stand for as in your country/culture. It comes with the territory. I suggest you bring a better screening process to the table. We are a microcosm of our nation, like it or don't. Most services are over two hundred years and they are here to stay, further, "one rotten banana spoils the whole bunch" does not apply to the military or the USA. Just sit on your perch and wait to see what happens to the alleged Mr. A. If he is found guilty, even plea bargaining or time served in the Japanese courts, will not defer the Court-Martial to follow. Like I said before, double jeopardy. As we say in the navy, stay on course, while you're at it, stop threading through people's threads (say that ten times)

All readers stay on topic please. From here on, posts that do not focus on the story will be removed.

I said it was possible to have both at the same time. The poster I responded too was acting like they could not exist side by side.

Since you are not in the U.S. military, you do not know. I can tell you, they do not "exist side by side".

And don't try to tell me that a little nudge, nudge, wink, wink never happens in the military!

What you are inferring occurs in daily life inside and outside the military.

I am active duty in the U.S. now, and this is 100% not true.

Well Jane, I did not say it was true. I said it was possible to have both at the same time. The poster I responded too was acting like they could not exist side by side. They can.

And if judges in America are dropping charges and expunging records of charges on condition that the defendant join some branch of the military, how are you and I supposed to know? Its really hard to research expunged records! And don't try to tell me that a little nudge, nudge, wink, wink never happens in the military!

I wonder why. Maybe because it is not true?

Jane, you really do need to do some reading about the kisha (reporter) club system in Japan, where the mainstream media is allowed to post reporters on the premises of the Ministry of Defense (in this case) and would risk suspension or expulsion from press conferences, etc., if their newspaper or media groups do not toe the line. This overly cozy relationship between the government and media is also why the tabloids here are read by opinion leaders and not by housewives with their hair in curlers.

Did the mainstream news ignore this story? I wonder why. Maybe because it is not true?

Please keep in mind that just because something may not hit the US news does not mean it hasn't hit the mainstream news.

Did the mainstream news ignore this story? I wonder why. Maybe because it is not true? I remember reading about all the problems in Okinawa on CNN, why would something like this not make regular news?

Both waivers and the choice of jail or the military can exist at the same time.

I am active duty in the U.S. now, and this is 100% not true.

I don't understand why some posters feel moved to attack Shukan Bunshun. Actually it's one of the better weekly tabloid magazines whose investigative reporters like Takashi Tachibana have exposed many malefactors in the past. The real question should be why the mainstream media refrained from reporting the incident, which is why the victim felt she had no recourse but to take her story to a magazine in the first place.

Under Article 120 of the UCMJ:

(a) Any person subject to this chapter who commits an act of sexual intercourse with a female not his wife, by force and without consent, is guilty of rape and shall be punished by death or such other punishment as a court-martial may direct.

I hope the Japanese police did not screw this up and sent her to a hospital for a rape test. If she has proof, she can press charges directly with the military.

It certainly will be interesting to see if we ever get any background information of the petty officer, or if this case is allowed to go anywhere at all!

@BertieWooster you are right, quite a few service members and family members complain. If you knew anything about the services, you'll know that we complain about every duty or duty station. We do complain about Okinawa, about shipboard or shore duty locations, ships, planes, division officers, department heads, and on. Hence a "bitching sailor is a happy sailor." What you hear is hearsay. Furthermore, most of the newcomers to overseas assignments are like "a deer in headlights" and a few others are just doing whatever to get that GI Bill. I don't know who you have been "polling." We stay very involved in OUR communities here on Okinawa. Refer to @Yubaru's above post and I can add to that list. This thread has nothing to do with Okinawa. We have our share of A's on island, but rest assured, we work hard to keep order and discipline on and off base. The Okinawans aren't our enemies or vice versa. Some Okinawans consider Tokyo a greater threat and are asking to rewrite the history books. The Japanese soldiers did quite a lot of "injustices" to Okinawans during that horrible war. Okinawa is no longer Japan's stepchild and that means more than any plane or base to the some Okinawans. Granted, there are a few Okinawans that haven't gotten over the lost of loveones, during the war and in recent events. Also, a strong eco-movement against noise pollution and protecting the flora and fauna, potential for accidents, and quite a fewother reasons come into play. They are exercising their rights. Back to topic. @Blacklabel I can't believe we are looking for her shoes Laughable at best. Adrenaline equals fight or flight, she fought and loss. Do you think she's going to get "properly" dressed for flight? Granted, all "alledged". Hopefully, she left them at his sty as evidence. @AlternateUniverse...u r in an alternate state.

i'm having a hard time understanding why the woman volunteered to walk the drunk home. it just doesn't make sense that a woman would put herself in such a vulnerable situation. investigators have an obligation to determine if the accusation is consistent with the facts. the guy sounds like a complete jerk and his out of control behaviour inconsistent with navy standards unless these are completely trumped up charges, i can't see this guy career in the military continuing much longer.

Who should I trust? The retired soldier or the recruiter? Well I don't trust anybody on the net much, but its real hard to trust a recruiter!

Looks like it was updated in 2011.

And our recruiter just plain skipped commenting on that! Why, it was last year! Ancient history! Almost like it never happened! I am sure the petty officer in question just signed up last week!

This article is from 2007. How many of those guys are still in the service? http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21228797/ns/us_news-military/t/more-army-recruits-have-criminal-record/

Now that our wars are winding down, they change the rules, and all clean? Its this sort of BS why everyone should keep their boys close when a recruiter walks past! But I cannot find any information about any changes. As far as I know, the waivers are still being used!

A+b/a=a/b≡? wrote: WAIVERS are different than being "given a choice between jail or enlistment", very, very different.

Yep. But that does not mean there is a contradiction. Both waivers and the choice of jail or the military can exist at the same time. And I have no doubt that the people beerbelly served with were less than honest or clear on their facts. And I would sooner trust an ex-soldier to try and be honest, but be fuzzy on the facts, than I would trust a recruiter who is clear on the facts to be straight up about them.

All that said though, most soldiers do behave and hang on to that second chance. But it all goes back to beerbelly's original statement: he served with people he would not introduce to his sister. That is the important part. We all know plenty of those types are serving. Be suspicious of those that take umbrage, as if every soldier is straight as a Mormon for having a criminal history waiver! Give it up!

unwillingness to just I'm only repeating what I hear.

Meant to write, WILLINGNESS to just repeat what I hear.

If the military would go out and make friends with the people in the local area, give them an opportunity to practice English, exchange ideas, show some respect and enter into the community more, things would be different.

Then what do you call the thousands of Japanese women and in some cases men too who got married with Okinawan women or men?

You have got to be living in a bubble if you believe that many of the military folks dont do EXACTLY what you are talking about here. There are countless numbers of military and their families that volunteer in numerous places all over the island and are great ambassadors for their country. They get just as ticked off at the military folks who screw up and make idiots of themselves.

Ever hear of the Special Olympics at Kadena? Ever hear of all the beach cleanup events that the military folks participate in, ever hear of all the orphanages that are sponsored by Marine units on island, ever hear of Toys-For-Tot's that the Marines spread Christmas cheer to local underprivileged kids? I could go on and on.....If all you ever listen to is the local news or read the local papers you will NEVER hear a peep about these activities and you could be forgiven for your ignorance and unwillingness to just I'm only repeating what I hear.

There are TWO sides to every story and the overwhelming majority of Okinawan people who do not live around the bases are apathetic to there being here.

If she was only able to escape after he fell asleep then why was she not able to bring her shoes? And where are her shoes now? It's not victim blaming, she made a choice to leave with the guy. Sometimes bad things happen as a result of bad choices. But in this case I really doubt the story too many things don't make sense.

Another one.

This time the girl was 8 years old!

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/afanet/bio/userletter/?id=10748&letter_id=8118478531&content_dir=congressorg

BertieWoosterAug. 12, 2012 - 05:17PM JST

I've met so many servicemen and women who can't stand being in Okinawa. They never venture much more than a short taxi ride from a base. They don't speak a word of Japanese and have not the slightest interest in the culture they find themselves in. Okinawan food turns their stomachs, and they can't wait to get home.

If the military would go out and make friends with the people in the local area, give them an opportunity to practice English, exchange ideas, show some respect and enter into the community more, things would be different.

Yet all your other posts explain exactly why this status quo is so. The locals don't want servicemen there, so they feel isolated and find no reason to venture out. They will be insulted and discriminated against, so there is little opportunity for them to make friends, if any actually exist.

Social problems near bases are as much the fault of the people who live there as of the servicemen.

While you claim that things would be different if there was more participation, you won't even allow the chance for change, instead saying they should go regardless. Many of the other people there are the same way.

I doubt that servicemen go to random bars, so very likely this regular customer was fully aware of the fact servicemen were there when she first went to the bar, and in fact she stated she had known him for a year. Her story has a few interesting points, especially the fact she helped the guy home, alone, despite "knowing" that he was a belligerent drunk. A normal person would not do that, especially alone, so the question becomes why did she. Unfortunately, we will likely never know because the police report will remain locked, the serviceman will never be allowed to speak about his experience, and the media will forget this story in a week.

Bertie: "I've met so many servicemen and women who can't stand being in Okinawa. They never venture much more than a short taxi ride from a base."

And yet this woman decided to walk a drunk and violent serviceman home of her own volition. Now, I'm not doubting the woman, but are there any photos as evidence of her injuries? If not, we cannot take her word, unfortunately. And if you think I support the US military you would be incorrect -- I just don't support wrongful accusations. So let's hear more about the proof, and the reasons why this woman was willing to go home with the man in the first place.

I'm defending my country and our military culture. It's all subjective to you. I served for twenty-years. We are held to higher standards in the military and we ARE subject to double jeopardy. @beerbelly your moniker implies old navy:), a coffee cup, a beer gut, and a cuss mouth. "I've served 4 years aboard ship in San Diego and 4 years shore duty in Pearl. Both times I've met people who received special wavers to join the military after committing a crime" I have served on several ships and decommissioned two. Yes, that may have been the case when attrition bit us in the butt, however even those recruiters are investigated in due time as @"Voodoo_People may attest. "We've come a long way baby". Back in my days, the judge ordered criminals or hoodlums into the services to avoid conviction. Boot camp was no fun back then. When it comes to rape I'll rather read about, rape kits, counseling, and other supportive and preventative measures Japan has established for the alleged victim as opposed to about aircraft, bases, finger pointing and armchair quarterbacking.

I've met so many servicemen and women who can't stand being in Okinawa. They never venture much more than a short taxi ride from a base. They don't speak a word of Japanese and have not the slightest interest in the culture they find themselves in. Okinawan food turns their stomachs, and they can't wait to get home.

The Okinawans don't want them here either. Sure, the bars and "entertainment" establishments near the bases and the Okinawan chicks hoping to snare a "rich American" are quite happy for them to be here. In Naha, even in the small Izakaya's that cater for Okinawans rather than US military, people can't stand them and hope they leave as soon as possible.

That's been my experience.

I'm only repeating what I hear.

If the military would go out and make friends with the people in the local area, give them an opportunity to practice English, exchange ideas, show some respect and enter into the community more, things would be different.

But, since this isn't likely to happen anytime soon, my vote is for them to go. Guam is US territory and very close to the dreaded Chinese, the fearful North Koreans and, let us not forget, the Russians (AKA Commies).

This entire article bias and comment flow is pretty pointless, as it never states what the rates are for military and for ordinary public. In fact, the police regularly refuse to comment on the numbers, which include reports, open cases, closed cases, and prosecuted cases. Saying this is an issue with military serviceman in general is political opinion not backed up by statistics, as there are none to analyze.

I have no idea how the miltary works now. I left the military in the 90's

This answers a lot of questions.

Looks like it was updated in 2011. I have no idea how the miltary works now. I left the military in the 90's at the time it was 4 years enlistment onboard a ship and the oboard NC1 got me shore duty as a reenlistment incentive for the next 4 years.

@Beerbelly:

I've met people who received special wavers to join the military after committing a crime.

You do realize that your own post contradicts your previous statement. Right?

Criminals given the choice of jail or enlistment.

WAIVERS are different than being "given a choice between jail or enlistment", very, very different.

@ojiiu812badboy: Well said my friend. So many 'blanket' statements and NONE of it based on any facts. The days of sweep it and run are long gone. If you screw up you will and should be served up to face the music. This whole thing reeks of sales and fire up the anti crowd. This case must be pretty weak even for the land of hold 'em for 23 days without charges.

I've served 4 years aboard ship in San Diego and 4 years shore duty in Pearl. Both times I've met people who received special wavers to join the military after committing a crime.

I have served 15 years. 10 of which have been as a recruiter. Now, I am here in Japan. And, I can tell you that anyone being considered for enlistment must pass a background investigation, physical standards, and other administrative requirements.

Some states in the US give the option to join the military or go to jail.

This is completely false. And has been a "Hollywood film" rumor since WW2. It has no basis of truth.

BeerBelly,

Being ex-military and enlisted for 8 years. I've met people who I wouldn't introduce to my sister. Some states in the US give the option to join the military or go to jail. I was stationed with 4 such people. Criminals given the choice of jail or enlistment. So I'm not surprised these things happen.

This answers a lot of questions.

Thank you.

@Mobass4u I agree that it was the thing to do in the past, but "protectionism" is less likely today. It is evident that this one cannot be swept under the rug. If it even seem like a possibility, we all as responsible citizens can take action. That's the beauty of being American! @ExportExpert and a few others, there is a zero tolerance policy and current measures to curb crime, i.e. curfews, buddy system, etc. No need to "export" your bitterness and hate. We are here defending this country by treaty and in the process serving the USofA. We are considered adults at the tender age of eighteen and are held responsible and accountable for our actions. Japanese on Japanese crime in the snacks is quite higher than those perpetrated by any foreign citizen in Japan. We make the news for political gain at the most. Whether, a "snack babe" or "dancing dolly" (native or foreign) or whatever prejudice on your part. These people work in a rather lucrative business and receive a good salary at the end of the night. Because John Doe may or may not score over time does not mean these young ladies and young men are whores or have questionable visas. (the larger problem in this area are the Japanese who marry foreigners for financial gain). Your take on Gate 2 Street and entertainment areas (around the world) is biased and without facts. If you don't like being entertained in those areas, go spend your hard earned ¥ at a concert of "imported "has-beens". Better, just stay home in front of the "boob tube" with a flask and consider yourself entertained and "exposed".

Mamasan, next time call the police to escort the drunkards, not innocent citizens. And yes, even some Congressmen in the US already have hinted that Japan needs to do more for their own defense and contributions to coalition operations.

Bertie Wooster for Tokyo governor, hurray!

Being ex-military and enlisted for 8 years. I've met people who I wouldn't introduce to my sister. Some states in the US give the option to join the military or go to jail. I was stationed with 4 such people. Criminals given the choice of jail or enlistment. So I'm not surprised these things happen.

No, he shouldn't have raped her. This is just a shade away from victim-blaming.

It goes without saying that he should not have raped her! But it seems we have to clearly state not to walk drunk men home whom you barely know because that little bit of common sense is not nearly common enough.

And victim-blaming? God helps those who help themselves, and so do we. If someone leaves their doors unlocked and gets robbed, of course we are going to say "Next time lock your doors!". Your accusation of "victim blaming" is bunch of political dung hurled as a reflex, and its nothing but self-serving.

Frankly, if this really happened, then he is as evil as she is a fool. But she could have prevented the whole thing with ease. I say it not to vilify her, but to educate foolish women who might do the same, and prevent the next rape. I care about women. I don't care about ultra-feminist politics!

@Export:

Because they cant control them selves when drinking, and have no respect for anyone who isnt higher rank.

Your blanket statements are wrong in many ways.

ExportExpert

These soldiers sailors and pilots should all just stay on their bases, no drinking off base at, all zero tolerance, japan would be a much safer place and the public would becoem alot more tolerant of the US presence in their midst.

Yes. That would work.

Of course, they could all just pack up and go home, or go to Guam.

Wasn't that where they were supposed to be going, at immense cost to the Japanese taxpayer?

@Export: How long have you lived in Japan? You never seen "loud mouth drunk (Japanese) with bad attitudes out on the streets amongst innocent civilians? If you have not, you must be living in a cave.

We do not read stories about military being assaulted, because Japanese newspapers could probably care less, since it is not involving one of their citizens. There is no "one-way", except that which is in your head.

The various establishments that "entertain" the lads around gate 2 are indeed staffed by Okinawans, also Filipinas (with very "creative" visas). You find similar spots in Tsuji, Asato, Shinjuku 3-chome in Tokyo, Susukino in Sapporo.

There is a type of person who seeks that kind of "work." I wasn't actually referring to these. The vast majority of Okinawans lives in other areas. Naha, Nago, Itoman, etc. Because they consider the areas around the bases to be dangerous.

Time for a referendum, I think. Then we might get some facts and figures to go with our opinions

.Woah, Hold on here a minute, first you say they dont go near them now you are talking about who works there. No that isnt the point.

Okinawan people do not "run" away from the bases, and your rather ignorant statement about the reasons why they live where they do hold no water. They don't "live" in the cities or areas you named because there are no bases there.

If what you said was true, then why is it so many, particularly younger families and single type folks, want to live in Chatan? Which is smack dab in between Kadena AB and Camp Foster, two of the larger installations on island?

You make assumptions based upon feelings. I've been here nearly 3 decades and what you have written smacks of...... well if I say it this post will be censored so I'll just let it be.

Asinine answer:

The population of Japan divided by the total number of all rapes MINUS those committed by US military and other non-Japanese.

However many rapes there were, the total number would be less if you subtract those committed by US military. Ergo, no US military = fewer rapes

You were right about that being an asinine answer.

Yubaru-san,

You really dont know what you are talking about if you think Okinawan's keep away from the bases. The off base clubs and other establishments are magnets for Japanese looking to hook up with an American.

The various establishments that "entertain" the lads around gate 2 are indeed staffed by Okinawans, also Filipinas (with very "creative" visas). You find similar spots in Tsuji, Asato, Shinjuku 3-chome in Tokyo, Susukino in Sapporo.

There is a type of person who seeks that kind of "work." I wasn't actually referring to these. The vast majority of Okinawans lives in other areas. Naha, Nago, Itoman, etc. Because they consider the areas around the bases to be dangerous.

Time for a referendum, I think. Then we might get some facts and figures to go with our opinions.

Couple of facts are in order here……

There is a reason that this incident is only being reported in Shukan Bunshun, a tabloid-like rag and not in the general media…

And that is the sailor has not been arrested yet – the Japanese police have not issued an arrest warrant because they are still verifying the victim’s allegations….

So all this tripe about US military personnel “hiding” in their bases is nothing but anti-US blather…….

If the evidence collected by the police confirm the victim’s allegations, the police will issue an arrest warrant – at that time they will have 23 days to complete their case and forward to the Prosecutor, who will decide whether to indict or not.

If they indict, the US will hand over custody to the police as outlined in the SOFA, and he will stand trial in a Japanese court.

But contrary to what was said in this article, this is just speculation – at this time, the sailor has not been arrested because the police do not have evidence they he committed the crime.

Unfortunately, those facts don’t fit with the narrative of the anti-US zealots or sleazy editors who have to sell supermarket rags…..

“In any case, it is the U.S. military that determines how the investigation will proceed.”

The Japanese police are investigating, a Japanese Prosecutor will decide whether to indict, and if indicted, he will be tried in Japanese court.

An inebriated soldier is a dangerous soldier, since they severely lack proper judgement with anything they do afterwards.

Replace soldier with person and your statement would hold water.

This is bad, but I can not believe this native bar fly, walks home a young drunk US soldier and thinks they guy is just gonna sleep, when a bar fly is walking him home?? She is pretty and 30 something?? Sure, anybody is pretty with beer goggles after 2 am, so this story is not really news, more like a of BS. If they do not want drunk, horny Americans ask Atsugi to make these bars off limits, like they have done on bar row over at Yokota, too many Japanese yakuza, and drunk young Americans is not a good mix, right??

This article is poorly written because they evidently are lacking info. Many of you are off to the races without having facts or knowledge of how the military works. The agreement with GOJ is called the SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement). Until that changes, you can whine 'til the cows come home. Whether the "woman agreed to or was requested to take him home" was not a really stupid act. They were both regulars at the bar so she evidently thought she could do us all a favor. Don't go bashing her (whether she was drinking or not). Every military person in that bar shares more responsibility than her, especially the so-called "high ranking officer" who has the authority (in civilian clothes) to take the idiot's I.D. card and call the JP's so they can hold him until the base police picks him up. If they could hold him to avoid striking the idiot officer, then could subdue to prevent further injury to himself, others, or private property. This is not the navy or every service person. It's one ahole, "THAT GUY" who's going to make us all pay in some way, shape, or form, as evidenced by some of your posts. I guarantee you, no matter what side gets him first, when he gets back on-base, the good ol' USA, he will pay dearly. We don't tolerate drunkenness, any "ugly American behavior", and definitely NO HARM to our shipmates or our HOSTS. Mr. booze has done-in most of us at one time or another. Thank God (whomever is your higher power) we all aren't sick bastards like "A". Bashing the bases, the lady's decision making or the person who suggested it, the OSPREY's,or every service person is not going to help this situation, especially in this political climate. She will get justice when this sick act perpetrated by one poor excuse of a man**, changes from alleged rape!

Oh boy, alcohol and a young US soldier always makes them have such amazingly wonderful attitudes. Hope this pr*** gets stuck on base forever. Another idea is to not serve alcohol to any military (US or JSDF) personnel. If they want to drink, have them do it on base. An inebriated soldier is a dangerous soldier, since they severely lack proper judgement with anything they do afterwards.

The story is fishy as hell. I certainly hope that 'A' is punished if it is true as reported but the whole 'He was really drunk and I knew him to be an obnoxious drunk but decided to walk home alone with him' suggests there's more to their relationship than is reported here.

I can't imagine even the most naive of women thinking that was a good idea. Even as a male, I would stay from someone in that kind of state unless they were an actual friend.

Note that I'm not blaming the victim if there was an actual assault, it's just pretty clear that we don't have the full story here.

The military in Japan is so "despised" that tens of thousands of Japanese people work on the bases and there is a waiting list of people wanting jobs there? Also thousands (if not tens of thousands) of Japanese women have married people in the military in Japan and are happily living together in Japan, often on the "dangerous" base itself.

I guess people just get married anyway even though they cant communicate with the people they marry? I guess Japanese people are just bad judges of character to associate with these dangerous people in dangerous areas? Or more likely....... there is no "threat" and people with agendas make it all up.

Okinawans keep away from the areas around the US bases.

You really dont know what you are talking about if you think Okinawan's keep away from the bases. The off base clubs and other establishments are magnets for Japanese looking to hook up with an American.

If you think otherwise, you really dont know what is what here in Okinawa.

Well as the "suspect" is being held on the base since the incident, wouldnt that mean the Japanese police can file the paperwork to go search his place? He hasnt been home to hide anything, any evidence that would be there is still there. So why dont they do it? If they dont even care enough to go look then how can you call a person guilty? By the way, are her shoes still at his house?

BushveldtCarbineer

SOFA personnel are regarded as "innocent" until proven guilty.

Well, they do better than the guys in Guantanamo, then!

Attacking women like this is low and despicable.

If this "alleged" incident actually occurred as recounted by this woman. I personally find it disgusting. If this ever comes to light, is properly investigated, and found to be true -it tarnishes all the good deeds done by military members whom adhere to decent values.

If this entire incident is in any form found to be misleading, shame on the woman. But, do not misunderstand me, it is in no means a judgement on my part for any victims of sexual assaults.

While some readers are injecting their own interpretation of the story, I see the following:

1.

two members of the U.S. military, assigned to the Atsugi naval air facility in Kanagawa Prefecture, reportedly became disorderly while drinking in a civilian bar....(A) was ordered to leave the bar by the officer, who admonished him, saying, “No more drinks, you’ve had enough.”

The story does not outline what the supposed disorderly conduct was. It only outlines that one person order another to go home. So, were they assigned to the same unit? Were they drinking together? Or, did the officer attempt to make some on-site decision to keep control of the situation?

2.

As A was a regular at the bar and lived close by, a woman at the bar agreed to accompany him to his home......“From about a year ago, A used to come drinking at this bar,” she is quoted as saying. “He behaved himself when sober, but once he’d had too much to drink, it was like someone had flipped a switch, and he’d become obnoxious.”

The story fails to make the relationship between the woman, the bar, and (A). Very confusing. Did she personally know him? Did she know where he lived (and if YES) had she had relationship with him previously? Is she an employee of the bar or just a frequent customer?

3.

When A dozed off, the woman fled in her bare feet and at the advice of an acquaintance, reported the assault to the military police on the base. The Americans notified the Kanagawa prefectural police at Yamato, which dispatched officers the next morning to raid A’s apartment.

Why did she not call the Japanese police immediately? If she had the courage to call the military police... why not also the Japanese police? Why did the Japanese police wait until the morning to dispatch officers?

4. After much consideration. It is hard to make a serious opinion as to what took place or what is happening/will happen. But some things are true. SOFA personnel are regarded as "innocent" until proven guilty. On occasion, due to the lengthy process, some members transfer back to CONUS before they come to trial in Japan. But, in no means does it signify that military bases are a sanctuary for base personnel whom may have committed a crime off-base -nor that ranking officers are covering-up criminal cases. The SOFA agreement allows the U.S. military to handle most cases via NJP or Courts Martial process; while other cases are handed over to the Japanese police to process/handle.

As for the training that some military personnel receive in boot camp, it is in any way, shape, or form equivalent to being taught how to kill. The 8 week process is more about discipline, U.S. Navy terminology and lifestyle, and such trivial subjects. Besides, during the most recent war (and ongoing conflicts) naval personnel rarely see combat. The few that do are either corpsman/medical or other very special NEC personnel attached to U.S. Marine units. I highly doubt this PO2 saw any combat or had any such training.

While the commissioned officer (if that was his rank) made a good "call" to ask that PO2 to leave the premisses, he failed to call/inform the military police of the incident. For this, he has shown poor judgement, and lack of accountability and should receive at the very least a Letter of Reprimand to be placed in his service record.

The question of American military being needed in Japan -- it is only a matter of time. Japan ranks about 5th in the world for military expenditure, Japan has enough separated plutonium (45 tons thanks to its peaceful nuclear power program (none of the separated plutonium used for energy production by the way)).

The US should let Japan defend itself and think about its relationship with China, Korea, and other Asian countries.

Japan is not an easy country to file a sexual assault charge. I commend the woman for her bravery. More people need to stand up against barbarians and hold them accountable for our sisters not only in Japan.

what's wrong with solar plexus? I don't know another word for it... what's wrong with organ for that matter?

No idea what's real about this article. Strange for the woman to walk him home. Maybe she felt safe because she thought she knew him, and if she's 10 yrs older, maybe she looked at him as a younger brother or child, and thought she had some control...

Bertram Wooster writes:

"The US military is NOT needed here and they are NOT wanted here. They are not here to defend Japan but to look after their own interests."

I am familiar with the complaint that our military bases are scary and a source of humiliation for the nations that host them but I still don't know what is meant by US interests in Japan. What are they? You sound like you are in the know.

What makes you think he will be found and punished?

Well for one "he" isn't lost and "he" is restricted to base for now. You have to be living back in the post war era into the 70's and early 80's to think differently.

Been on both sides of the fence and times have changed dramatically. The US Military cooperates as best as it can in cases like this. However they wont allow Jim Crow justice as many people would like to see.

Prove your case, and you'll get your man. Plain and simple.

Yubaru-san,

young military types literally thousands of miles away from home drinking in a bar, unfamiliar with local culture and customs, acting stupid commit these crimes.

Exactly. I'm sure it's what you say.

So, why are they here?

This is my point. The blame lies more with the Japanese politicians who can't say "no" and their American handlers who are operating on some agenda of their own.

The US military is not needed or wanted here.

It's time they left!

Asinine statement.

How many rapes were committed by Japanese people in proportion to the population?

Asinine answer:

The population of Japan divided by the total number of all rapes MINUS those committed by US military and other non-Japanese.

However many rapes there were, the total number would be less if you subtract those committed by US military. Ergo, no US military = fewer rapes

Please, please close the bases in Japan. We don't need this!

Asinine statement. How many rapes were committed by Japanese people in proportion to the population?

They are trained in combat and trained how to hurt and kill, they lack pyhscological support to deal with what they do see and go through, and the military has no qualms about letting these often loose units wander amongst innocent civillians while they very often are on the verge of going off.

You may excel in rthe area that your name implies but you have no expertise or training whatsoever in the area of psycology or how the military deals with it. A whole lot of assuming on your part. If THIS individual is guilty then THIS individual will pay dearly.

Too many crimes have been comitted by the US forces in Japan (even one is too many).

You have got to be living in Utopia! Get real here, YES crimes happen, and yes young military types literally thousands of miles away from home drinking in a bar, unfamiliar with local culture and customs, acting stupid commit these crimes.

YES, it's unfortunate too, but the reality is that as long as there are people walking on this planet crime is going to happen. No one can change that, but in comparison to their Japanese hosts the US military commits less than 1% of the crimes in this country.

Next in this article there are too many, (politically motivated to elicit a desired response from the readership) holes in this story to take it seriously.

Allegedly a rape was committed, and if so hammer the dude big time. Let both the US and Japanese investigate it together.

However, the officer in question should have taken responsibility and ordered the guy out, regular or not. It is common knowledge in the US military that one, by military law, obeys the orders of their superior officers, and another problem here is why was an former pilot, meaning at least a major in rank, maybe a captain, drinking with an enlisted person in public. It's called fraternization and that is against military law as well. Information is lacking as to the details here.

The guy should not have needed an escort home, and sending someone from the bar with him was a huge mistake when the bar folks knew, KNEW, the guy became an arsehole when drunk.

I wonder if there is something more in the relationship between the girl, the bar, and the guy in question. Also if he lived so close, they left at around 1:30 and she ran barefoot to a convenience store at around 3:50AM, that's over 2 hours. What happened in between?

Not enough info.

"although his age (23) would make it unlikely he saw heavy combat that might lead to PTSD." This is ridiculous. Most of those who see combat are young. It would be quite normal for a 23 year old. It would depend not on his age, but his occupational classification.

Too many crimes have been comitted by the US forces in Japan (even one is too many). The Government of Japan should demand that the US government relocate its bases in Japan elsewhere (far away from residential areas as possible), and cede legal jurisdiction to the Japanese Government which= no legal immunity for soldiers who committ crimes. If the US refuses that ultimatum, the US should be kicked out of Japan.

I'm American and I strongly support our rock-solid alliance with Japan, but the safety of the residents of Japan should always come FIRST. America is losing friends in this world, and Japan is the last ally we would want to lose. No country should have to put up with guests mistreating the local population.

There is a claim that a serious crime has happened, it should be investigated..

If something did indeed occur if she knows him, if she walked him home, if she is attractive, if she has visited his home before, what she was wearing etc etc have nothing to do with a mans, or any persons, decision to use his physical power or some for of manipulation to force a woman, or indeed any person, to do something they do not agree to.

We shouldn't have to live in fear of other peoples inability to function in society.

It is quite common in cases of sexual assault for the victims to need some time before they can report it due to the stigma and intimate nature of these crimes.

Essentially a story that isn't a news story that is all speculation and not enough facts.

Wow, military haters out in force already and the story doesnt even have half the information it needs to be credible. Problem I have with how the article is written:

So why did the girl walk a drunk guy home? is she an employee of the bar? Already knew the guy well enough to know he is a bad drunk, why did she do that? who "requested" her to walk him home? he actually lives walking distance from the bar? she knows where he lives in order to walk him there? None of this makes sense.

Why did the article mention she is "attractive", what does that have to do with anything? If the guy was that drunk as they saying he is, wouldnt have mattered. Sounds like trying to incite the reader that some barbarian military guy has the nerve to touch an "attractive" girl.

Twenty days and no charges filed? maybe because there is no evidence? I dont believe Japanese police wouldnt enter his apartment because of Osprey? More likely they didnt enter because they were not sure enough that the story is actually true or not. It might BE true, but evidently Japanese police had (and still have) their doubts. Nobody just gets away with rape, military or not.

Military people in Japan has no impact on 99% of the internet population so I dont how it makes it so heinous that it was supposed done by a military person?

A lone woman walking a drunk male customer home is stupid on so many levels. And now it leaves us with a fairly unresolvable "he said, she said situation". How can we get the truth like this?

I would like to see the staff of the bar get some punishment just for letting this happen. Double that if anyone there ordered her to do it.

A proper investigation should have been launched immediately. Sounds like it wasnt. Another black mark for the pseudo-occupation forces.

The soldier in this case is not entirely to blame.

The responsibility mostly lies with the Japanese government who allows US bases to be located in residential areas. They pay more attention to their American masters than they do to the people who have to live near these thugs. Japanese people only want the US military as long as their bases are a LONG way from where they live.

The US military is NOT needed here and they are NOT wanted here. They are not here to defend Japan but to look after their own interests.

Until they leave, I suggest that they consume alcohol only on base.

I would not walk a violent drunk home even if he was family. Men are stronger than women so there is no way she could drag him home if he past out. Was everybody at that bar drunk enough to think it was a good idea to allow this women to take a violent drunk home. Seriously.

A reacted with hostility to the officer’s reprimand and others intervened to prevent a fight. It was then that the woman was requested to see him home.

Waitttt Just Wait, Why, Why in the world would this women volunteer to walk a drunk and violent man home?? Just because someone requested her too??

From about a year ago, A used to come drinking at this bar,” she is quoted as saying. “He behaved himself when sober, but once he’d had too much to drink, it was like someone had flipped a switch, and he’d become obnoxious.”

She knows he is a nasty drunk. FFS you have to stay away from those types of people. Not walk them home, he could have found his own way home or the gutter where he belongs.

I hope she recovers from this if there is trauma and gains some sense of self preservation. Do Not Walk A Violent Drunk Home Ever Again.

Please, please close the bases in Japan.

We don't need this!

theres a possibility [this crime] will be covered up.

Shukan Bunshun... had not received a response in time to meet the deadline.

In other words, the magazine doesn't actually know how the case will proceed, but speculates anyway, giving one side zero benefit of the doubt.

Another example of excellent Japanese journalism.