JSDF is the military of Japan whose aim is to protect and give an initial defense in case Japan is attacked. We had an unique chance to visit their base in Beppu, view the training grounds and enjoy soldier's lunch.
The general public has some what negative image of the forces. They would prefer to see the country without any militaristic grouping. To make the image better, in addition to ordinary military training, JSDF has engaged in helping the community. They, for example build roads and schools, carry out peace keeping operations and rescue missions to find lost people from forests.
The reason why they allowed a group of international students to enter their base was most likely also linked to improving their public image. One of our students was asked at the end of the visit,
"Now that you have been here, has your image of JSDF changed?"A question that baldly indicates their intentions of image construction. Indeed, they received us with a very hospitable and friendly manner, leaving little space for negative thoughts. Despite that a question remains: Can a truly friendly military exist?
We met the camp commander, and some students went into asking quite sensitive questions such as:
"As the JSDF is solely serving for self defense, isn't it contradicting to have troops in Iraq or in any other place around the world?"
"What are the future challenges or scenarios that JSDF is likely to face?"
"As JSDF runs in a voluntary basis, how does JSDF lure new soldiers, and has there been a drop in the number of applicants?"
"Do they think the physical and mental condition of newcomers is worse today than, say 20 years ago?"
The answers, tough presented in a direct militaristic tone were satisfactory. Understandably the camp commander, a Colonel of his rank circumvented skillfully around any topic that included his personal views or opinions. What was more satisfactory, however, was the food they served. The lunch that honestly tasted better than looked was a well-thought way to get us distracted and at the same time rise our spirits.
We asked several soldiers why they had joined JSDF. A common reply was "We wanted to do something for our country". One man, in addition to doing something for the country, added saying, "This is a good environment for those who want to become more confident and grow interpersonally.", not too bad motive at all, eh?
Do you have an impression of JSDF? Aspiring to join them?
