Japan's Military House Guest

Comment from a reader on "Rejuvenated Guam or Military Parking Area":

Anybody who really thinks the Japanese government is eager to see the U.S. military "leave Japanese soil," is surely one ignorant and/or naive regarding the strategic games that have been played behind the scenes with the U.S. Government since 1952. Those of us who served in the military in Japan in the 50's, 60's, and 70's knew well the wisdom of disregarding all official pronouncements by representatives of the two governments.

I agree with SB that the term "rejuvinate" does not apply to the future of Guam, but neither does relocation of major assets from Japan make much sense, either. Unless, of course, one takes at face value the mouthings of Japanese and Guamanian politicians. Now about that bridge in Brooklyn, such a deal I have for you......

[The Subic Bulletin] At the simplest level the SOFA agreement says that if you come and stay at my house you must protect my family. But even the most influential house guest will at some time become a burden.

There is no doubt that the noise, pack rapes, land use etc from a US base is a burden to Japanese politicians who are surely trying to find a way to get rid of these problems without without loosing the military assistance and protection of the USA.

Its more like building a Granny flat at the bottom of the garden than kicking out your house guest...