Its Gonna Be Quiet This Weekend...

[Takako]

After this incident, I'm sure Gen. Zilmer is going to lock down the bases this weekend. I wonder how that will affect the Okinawan economy? Maybe they'll protest to let the Marines off base! :thumbup1:


2 more Okinawa Marines arrested
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, February 20, 2008

NAGO, Okinawa — A 21-year-old Marine assigned to Camp Schwab was taken into police custody Monday after he was found asleep on a couch in a home in Henoko, near the base, according to a spokesman for the Okinawa prefectural police in Nago.

According to the police report, a 54-year-old resident of the house found a stranger sleeping on her living room couch at about 4:25 a.m. Monday. Police were called to the home and arrested Cpl. Shawn Cody Jake at 4:50 a.m. on suspicion of trespassing.

Jake told investigators that he did not remember how he entered the home because he was drunk, the spokesman said.

Investigators suspect the Marine entered the home through an unlocked front door. There was no sign of a break-in. The case is expected to be sent to prosecutors Tuesday.

In another case over the weekend, a 22-year-old Marine assigned to Camp Foster was arrested Sunday for allegedly driving drunk after he was spotted zigzagging across several lanes of traffic near a police station.

The two arrests have drawn widespread attention in local media. They occurred a week after another Marine was arrested for the alleged rape of 14-year-old Okinawa girl, a case that has spawned protests and official calls for tighter discipline among U.S. servicemembers.

That alleged rape also prompted Lt. Gen. Richard Zilmer, commander of Marines in Japan, to order a stand-down for training on “ethics and leadership” last Thursday and Friday for all Marines on Okinawa and mainland Japan.

Vice Foreign Minister Mitoji Yabunaka called U.S. Ambassador Thomas Schieffer to complain about the weekend incidents, the Associated Press reported Monday.

The government’s top spokesman, Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura, also accused U.S. troops of continuing their alleged carousing despite the accusations of lax discipline.

“Secretary of State Rice is visiting Japan next week,” Machimura told the AP. “We must urge the U.S. government to reflect seriously on what has happened.”

[Asshat]

After this incident, I'm sure Gen. Zilmer is going to lock down the bases this weekend. I wonder how that will affect the Okinawan economy? Maybe they'll protest to let the Marines off base! ”

Just been done according to what I am hearing.

[socalheart]

it's official. they all just received an email on it. starts tomorrow at 0730 until further notice. yay... :(

[TheLastDon]

What's the official word. Just marines? Restricted to base only? Anyone know?

[hankypanky]

What's the official word. Just marines? Restricted to base only? Anyone know?

everyone, military that is

[camplejeune_marine]

Everyone who is SOFA status will be restricted to base and base to base travel. Medical appointments out in town will be authorized. There will be some leniency for legitimate requests, I would just hate to be the dumb ass caught without prior authorization. Can't quote my source, but it's legit.

[DoctorP]

needed to be done

[Bones]

As posted by DoctorP:

needed to be done

I agree with you Doc, but I'm just wondering, is it a good idea?

On the one hand, the CG needs to do something to show that he's serious to placate the Okinawan officials.

On the other hand, the guys who get off work, who have done nothing wrong, are locked up. Anger builds over a period of time, so it seems to me that once the gates are opened again, we will likely see another incident within the first one, or two week period.

A far better solution would be to tighten the standards to the point that if you find yourself being accused of a serious crime, you would be expelled from the service with a less than honorable discharge. Doesn't matter if you are found guilty, or not.

Not talking about stupid stuff like sleeping on someone else's couch, or DUI. Just the hard core cases that involve assault, rape, theft, etc....

If you happen to be a contractor, you loose the opportunity for future Government employment, World Wide.

A short on-base restriction is called for, but the people who really need to be hammered are the idiots who have committed the crime in the first place.

NBTP

[camplejeune_marine]

Until you made the comment about the dishonorable discharge without being found guilty. A little over the top Comrade.
Gen Zilmer has done a fantastic job handling this. He might need to be a bit more pointed about just how uncommon this is, but given his position I can understand. What we realistically might have to do is take a look at the liberty system that is in place. Do junior Marines just out of MOS school need to be turned loose without any acclimatization? Just asking, not sure the answer.....on the other hand, all of the recent incidents were committed by NCOs and Staff NCOs......
One last tidbit for all you Marine haters out there; an Army member is currently being investigated for assaulting a local national to the point of putting her in the hospital. Depending on the results, you may or may not see that one in the news.

[dk]

A far better solution would be to tighten the standards to the point that if you find yourself being accused of a serious crime, you would be expelled from the service with a less than honorable discharge. Doesn't matter if you are found guilty, or not.
What if it's a false accusation?

[Tanimaga]

Are they going to attempt a curfew for the off base folks as well?

[camplejeune_marine]

Back and forth to base or legitimate appointments only.....Is there any realistic way to check on up on the off base folks? No, but I feel sorry for the dumb bastard who breaks the rules.....

[Bones]

As posted by camplejeune_marine:

Back and forth to base or legitimate appointments only.....Is there any realistic way to check on up on the off base folks? No, but I feel sorry for the dumb bastard who breaks the rules.....

I feel sorry for the poor bastard that approaches me, trying to enforce the rules.

Let's see, retired military, no SOFA status, not working.

Don't mind being approached politely, but if some comes at me with an attitude, sparks will fly.

NBTP

[Tanimaga]

Hmmm..


Haven't heard anything on the AF side of the house. Wonder if they will follow the lockdown.
Heard out gate 2 they were throwing rocks at the guards and blocking traffic.

[Bones]

How long ago was that?

[Tanimaga]

Today sometime.. apparently it happened several times, then calmed down. Nothing genuine, but more for looks.

[socalheart]

It's a lockdown for the air force also. the senior nco folks received the email on it today.

[Bones]

Well, someone else had made a post saying that some locals were trying to create a commotion. Oh, well.

NBTP

[Mintus]

I've heard the rumors about the lock down and I'm more than a little flustered. I just started my on island leave. My fiancee is enroute from the states to visit me... and now I may not be able to get off base to meet her at the airport. Yeah that's going to be a problem.

I think a lockdown is a bit over the top. Maybe restrict the curret curfew or something along those lines but a Lockdown would be unfair to the 99% of us that do the right thing on a daily basis. I have been on island for just over a year now and have never had any problems. I don't understand why it's so hard for other people. Grrrrrrrr.

[socalheart]

mintus: call your supervisor or go in and try to get written permission to pick up your girl at the airport and show her around the island. then let me know if you got it, so we can do the same when my inlaws visit next month, if this lockdown is still on. thanks in advance. :)

[Mintus]

mintus: call your supervisor or go in and try to get written permission to pick up your girl at the airport and show her around the island. then let me know if you got it, so we can do the same when my inlaws visit next month, if this lockdown is still on. thanks in advance. :)

That's actually what I was going to try to do tommorow. I'll let'cha know how it turns out. :)

[Tanimaga]

Man..talk about poor timing! Good luck!

[okisteve]

mintus: call your supervisor or go in and try to get written permission to pick up your girl at the airport and show her around the island. then let me know if you got it, so we can do the same when my inlaws visit next month, if this lockdown is still on. thanks in advance. :)

Are you a pessimist or what? If the collective wisdom here has it right, by then the Koza and Chatan shopkeepers will have applied for welfare and started sleeping in city hall, and all the local drunks will have committed their quota of heinous crimes in order to exonerate the Marines.:rolleyes:

[P_chan]

it would be nice if it was just a early curfew for everyone. That way I can go about my normal daily life, losing my night life is nothing (seeing as I have none).

It will be easy to get around this is I really wanted to. I just hate the fact that it will interfere with my family time. Not just the legal and taxes stuff I have to do with my wife down in naha on monday. But the fact that I can't go visit my wife's family on my time off.

[Mintus]

Hahaha Tell me about it. I got back from JusCo *SPelling?* and find out about this. o.0

Hopefully my command wil be cool and let me go to the airport. I mean that is if I can keep myself from commiting an international incident during the honcho ride to and from naha. It will be really hard but I have this strange feling that somehow I'll make it.

...yes that was sarcasm via text. lol

[socalheart]

lol. I don't think it'll last that long, but some people do. I'm one of those people who like to plan ahead for big stuff. I don't like surprises that don't end in me getting cake, ice cream and presents. :D

[P_chan]

I also wouldn't be suprised if domestic abuse cases went up. Kadena is already number one for that anyways.

[Mintus]

I also wouldn't be suprised if domestic abuse cases went up. Kadena is already number one for that anyways.

Hahaha >.> Don't jinx it dude.

[okisteve]

Ever wonder why Kadena has a high rate?

[Tanimaga]

So what is to become of non military SOFA peeps living off base? A curfew that states we can't come out of our homes after a certain time?

[P_chan]

Ever wonder why Kadena has a high rate?

The sheer number of people and the stresses of living in another country. Some people can't handle it so they lash out in other ways. I know it's hard to fathom that someone can't handle living over here. But I've seen it myself, and it still amazes me.

[Mintus]

The one thing that pisses me off the most is when people say we should "Police our own."

I am not on the same base as any of the people that have caused the 'big things.' Well other than SSgt Hadnott... but 1 That's an allogation, and 2 he'sa Staff NCO ... we arn't really drinking buddies.

[Takako]

On the other hand, the guys who get off work, who have done nothing wrong, are locked up. Anger builds over a period of time, so it seems to me that once the gates are opened again, we will likely see another incident within the first one, or two week period.

You mean like someone entering another persons house and sleeping on their couch or driving drunk after the "Stand Down", less than a few weeks after the international rape.

I personally thought Zilmer should have locked everyone down last weekend. He was just asking for trouble, 4 day weekend for the Marines, Pay Day Weekend and all the rukus by the locals. Oh well, we'll be paying for it now. At least the weekends will be quiet.

[Black Orchid]

wait a min i didnt know the base was on lock i went to hamby town this saturday past.. when did it go into effect and how long is it for??

[okisteve]

The sheer number of people and the stresses of living in another country. Some people can't handle it so they lash out in other ways. I know it's hard to fathom that someone can't handle living over here. But I've seen it myself, and it still amazes me.

Oh - I thought you meant in Kadena town, but I can understand bcuz even when the jets are loud once or twice a week down in Naha I feel like swatting someone.

[P_chan]

Oh - I thought you meant in Kadena town, but I can understand bcuz even when the jets are loud once or twice a week down in Naha I feel like swatting someone.

True that!

[Ammoyankee]

mintus: call your supervisor or go in and try to get written permission to pick up your girl at the airport and show her around the island. then let me know if you got it, so we can do the same when my inlaws visit next month, if this lockdown is still on. thanks in advance. :)


I would have to counter and say if you can get permission to show your visiting in-laws around the island, why can't I go out with my in-laws who live here? Not looking to make you mad, just throwing the comparison out there...

[P_chan]

I would have to counter and say if you can get permission to show your visiting in-laws around the island, why can't I go out with my in-laws who live here? Not looking to make you mad, just throwing the comparison out there...

You read my mind ammo!

[Ammoyankee]

So what is to become of non military SOFA peeps living off base? A curfew that states we can't come out of our homes after a certain time?

SOFA is the key word, military or not they can lock you down just the same...(it sucks)

[Tanimaga]

SOFA is the key word, military or not they can lock you down just the same...(it sucks)


Lock us down meaning what though? Restrict us to base? Not letting us leave our homes off base between certain hours?

[P_chan]

Lock us down meaning what though? Restrict us to base? Not letting us leave our homes off base between certain hours?

I think that is exactly what would happen to SOFA civilians.

[Mintus]

As long as they don't keep people from comming On base I'm fine.

[Tanimaga]

As long as they don't keep people from comming On base I'm fine.

I would prefer that. Just leave me out of it if they are going to treat us like children.

[P_chan]

As long as they don't keep people from comming On base I'm fine.

Yeah good for you, shitty for me. I spend 98% of my of duty time off base! Hell, I make sure to stay as far away from any base or american establishment as possible!

[Ammoyankee]

Lock us down meaning what though? Restrict us to base? Not letting us leave our homes off base between certain hours?

It's so hard to tell what they are gonna do until the order comes out. Probably something like you can travel base to base for shopping, appointments, work or medical but no eating, drinking or shopping establishments off base of any kind. I guess we'll see for sure tomorrow if all the rumors are true...

[Ammoyankee]

Yeah good for you, shitty for me. I spend 98% of my of duty time off base! Hell, I make sure to stay as far away from any base or american establishment as possible!

I guess you had better dust off that Airman's club card!!!:first:

[Tanimaga]

I guess you had better dust off that Airman's club card!!!:first:

10% off 18th Services food if you can keep it down!

[P_chan]

I guess you had better dust off that Airman's club card!!!:first:

Ughhh! The only time I go to the airman's club is once they're giving away free stuff, or I want some ice cream:D

Maybe I'll see ya around more often eh? I did see you last weekend at the BX:D

[Ammoyankee]

Ughhh! The only time I go to the airman's club is once they're giving away free stuff, or I want some ice cream:D

Maybe I'll see ya around more often eh? I did see you last weekend at the BX:D

I guess I'll have to put on the leathers and ride my GSXR1000 around perimeter road lap after lap. It'll be just like MotoGP, wooohoooo!
:thumbup:

[Tanimaga]

Here's a link with a little info...

http://soldave.thedeepstop.com/

[P_chan]

I guess I'll have to put on the leathers and ride my GSXR1000 around perimeter road lap after lap. It'll be just like MotoGP, wooohoooo!
:thumbup:

Funny thing is I used to do this in my car late at night once I had a curfew:D

[socalheart]

I don't know why you shouldn't be able to get permission to see your inlaws, unless you're one of the troublemakers. heh. My mother lives here. We'll have to get special written permission to see my own mother in her home, because these jackasses are stupid drunks. :cursing: Ask your supervisor what to do about it. That's what we're going to do. If you need to, put it in writing and create a "paper" trail. Good luck to us all who are just regular half-locals. :thumbup:
I would have to counter and say if you can get permission to show your visiting in-laws around the island, why can't I go out with my in-laws who live here?

We also shouldn't jump to conclusions until the official word is out. Hopefully, it isn't too strict. Otherwise, they may get some letters from pissed off moms, mothers in law and grandmas. heh.

[Oxmix]

"Threats from a Confidence group from mainland that claimed they will be traveling to Okinawa to injure or confront US Service Personnel."

Okay boys set your night sticks on Whamp!!!

Regards

Ox

[Takako]

Disregard. Got the answer!

[mwr885]

Think chilis will be crowded this weekend? lol!

[Tempestuous]

You may only leave your off-base residence or the base for official duty or off-base appointments and/or for essential needs/supplies ON BASE

Will Chili's actually be OPEN? According to today's memo, only allowed to leave residence for work or essentials.
Chili's isn't an essential.

[Tempestuous]

Hey Ox,

Where did you get that info from?

Snuff

I don't know about Ox but I read it here.....
Where I saw it (http://soldave.thedeepstop.com/)

[Takako]

Temp-

Domo!!

[socalheart]

Will Chili's actually be OPEN? According to today's memo, only allowed to leave residence for work or essentials.
Chili's isn't an essential.

yes. that bit only applies to off base. everything on base is good to go. they're also going to have more planned events on base for folks. should be a boost to sales for aafes and mccs/18th services. what a racket. :rolleyes:

[Tempestuous]

Temp-

Domo!!

Do-itashi-mashite

Guess, just cause it is "out there" doesn't mean it is exactly 100% accurate.....

Anyone associated with Kadena verify this information that they want you sticking around home as much as possible?

[DougP]

Anyone hear about an order saying SOFA status personnel are restricted from shopping on the Japanese-Okinawan economy??? No going to restaurants, stores etc.. Wonder if this means I can't pay rent this weekend.:rolleyes: :D

I got this from someone else:
ALL MILITARY AFFILIATED PERSONNEL. (ie. children, spouses, American civilians, active duty, retired, (basically anyone with an ID)) will be restricted from participating in the Japanese-Okinawan Economy until Sunday the 24th. driving from base to base is alright, stopping at family mart on the way isn't.

[Boost]

Anyone hear about an order saying SOFA status personnel are restricted from shopping on the Japanese-Okinawan economy??? No going to restaurants, stores etc.. Wonder if this means I can't pay rent this weekend.:rolleyes: :D


Yep Doug, Temp posted a link to the order previously. Here it is...

I don't know about Ox but I read it here.....
Where I saw it (http://soldave.thedeepstop.com/)

[DougP]

Well I guess that means I can put my bills on hold then :D

[socalheart]

that's ridiculous. if I need to buy trash bags, I sure as hell am going to do so. the commissary doesn't sell the ones required by the city. I don't think they include paying bills and rent in that bit. If they do, they can pay my bills for me. gawd, I really hope those dumbasses who screwed the pooch for the rest of us are punished severely.

[Tempestuous]

Heh!!! Lemme know how well that holds up. :) Dunno if that will keep you from getting late penalty.
Military will say something like you shouldn't have waited TIL the due date to pay- that you should have known this was possible and should have paid your bills right away. :D Always a way to spin it to make it your fault. :)

[Tempestuous]

gawd, I really hope those dumbasses who screwed the pooch for the rest of us are punished severely.

According to the site mentioned it is to prevent military associated people from being readily available to be attacked by some mainland group desiring to hurt & confront any American associated person.

So not as punishment, but protection.

[Boost]

to prevent military associated people from being readily available to be attacked by some mainland group desiring to hurt & confront any American associated person.


Like that's really going to make everything better. Welcome to grade school level mentality.

[fenderchick1977]

According to the site mentioned it is to prevent military associated people from being readily available to be attacked by some mainland group desiring to hurt & confront any American associated person.

So not as punishment, but protection.

Yeah, that completely changed my mind when I read this from the blog link you and someone else posted:

"By order of ___________ Commander,
ALL SOFA Status personnel associated with Kadena Air Base, ie: Military, Dependents, etc. are restricted to Kadena Air Base or their off-base residence until further notice effective 0730 20 Feb 2008. You may only leave your off-base residence or the base for official duty or off-base appointments and/or for essential needs/supplies ON BASE.

This a direct result of further anticipated threats from a Confidence group from mainland that claimed they will be traveling to Okinawa to injure or confront US Service Personnel."

That paints things in a much different light. At first, I was outraged that they would punish everyone for one idiot, but now it appears to be for protection.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Only a short time ago, I was ridiculed for suggesting that people here may rise up against the military. Now, look who's hiding! It *is* open season on US troops in Japan.

[nchittum]

A friend of mine just spoke with someone in dispatch that said that for safety reasons, family members are being asked not to go off base either except to go from base to base. This makes me wonder if my child is safe going to school because the busses have to go off base and they make stops out in town, are the Japanese people going to start attacking us?

This makes me angry because the bad rap that the Marines are getting because of this lock down. When airforce or Navy or army people do something wrong, it's not made into a big deal, but as soon as one Marine messes up, everyone starts blamig ALL Marines. tI just hope that there's not a lashing out at the Marines that do conduct themselves appropriately and aslo that there's not a lashing out at the family members as well. It's not our fault these guys can't keep themselves under control.

[Tempestuous]

Stick a feather in your cap if it makes you feel better
:rolleyes:

[socalheart]

So not as punishment, but protection.

Protection my left yellow butt cheek! :cursing:

Btw, that memo y'all are quoting is not an official notice regarding the lockdown. It's a memo someone received from someone and posted it to a diving website.

[Tempestuous]

Protection my left yellow butt cheek! :cursing:

Btw, that memo y'all are quoting is not an official notice regarding the lockdown. It's a memo someone received from someone and posted it to a diving website.

Thats why I asked if it was actually true.....If anyone out there from Kadena could verify the restriction.....was that email memo accurate.
So far, no one has really verified for certian, though nchittum's post kind of correlates.

This is however, how the rumor mill gets started :) Someone says it, someone repeats it & before you know it....it is totally outta control.

[DougP]

Only a short time ago, I was ridiculed for suggesting that people here may rise up against the military. Now, look who's hiding! It *is* open season on US troops in Japan.

Or anyone who looks like they might be affiliated with the US. Don't think they'll care what kind of accent, haircut, facial hair or Passport you have when it comes time for a surprise beat down.:thumbdown:

[Tempestuous]

Kind of the idea- you are white you must be American/Military?

[silviasichigo]

Only a short time ago, I was ridiculed for suggesting that people here may rise up against the military. Now, look who's hiding! It *is* open season on US troops in Japan.

That is just a dumb statement.....how many military members here have you seen on this board that were saying "Oh my god they are going to beat us up I am going to stay on base"0 Right after the Rape in 95 we received the SAME exact statement (Group from mainland coming down to inflict harm and injury on military personnel) whatever dude you join that group you come and threaten military personnel have fun in the hospital bed buddy.............:thumbdown:

[socalheart]

Good grief :rolleyes: your children are fine riding the school bus, unless the driver is a drunk. heh. I've noticed that this has created a degree of fear in many people unaccustomed to this type of situation. Don't be afraid of the locals. They like us for the most part. It's the mainlanders who come down to start trouble that are the problem, but even they wouldn't harm children... well, one would hope. Just like there are a few bad apples in the military; there are a few rabble rousers in the Japanese.

When someone does a bonehead criminal thing, every branch of the military is blamed. It only seems like the Marines are singled out, because they get caught doing more dumb things than the rest. When the airman molested the little girl a few years back, there was negativity toward the Air Force. The thing is, no one else did something stupid, so the entire island wasn't put on lockdown. When 40,000 or so people are put on restriction, it's bound to cause a few fingers to be pointed toward the idiots who did something wrong. This time, the idiots are the Marines.

A friend of mine just spoke with someone in dispatch that said that for safety reasons, family members are being asked not to go off base either except to go from base to base. This makes me wonder if my child is safe going to school because the busses have to go off base and they make stops out in town, are the Japanese people going to start attacking us?

This makes me angry because the bad rap that the Marines are getting because of this lock down. When airforce or Navy or army people do something wrong, it's not made into a big deal, but as soon as one Marine messes up, everyone starts blamig ALL Marines. tI just hope that there's not a lashing out at the Marines that do conduct themselves appropriately and aslo that there's not a lashing out at the family members as well. It's not our fault these guys can't keep themselves under control.

[DougP]

The protection thing is just another ruse to keep your minds off the fact that this is just mass punishment and a drastic measure to keep everyone under control. And just like when they did the same thing when Bill Clinton came to Japan so many years ago, it will back fire. Keep everyone caged up for a while and then when you release them all hell will break loose. History will repeat itself. Its just a quick solution that will not correct the problem, it will only mask the symptoms momentarily.

[OtisPMerriweather]

Excerpts from offical military communication rcv'd this morning:

2. SITUATION: TO ENSURE ALL STATUS OF FORCES AGREEMENT (SOFA) STATUS
PERSONNEL UNDERSTAND THEIR ROLES AS AMBASSADORS OF THE UNITED STATES IN
JAPAN. AS THE OKINAWA AREA COORDINATOR, I AM DIRECTING ALL SOFA STATUS
PERSONNEL TO OBSERVE A PERIOD OF REFLECTION, LIMITING OFF -BASE ACTIVITIES
OF A PERSONAL AND RECREATIONAL NATURE.

3. MISSION: EFFECTIVE 0730, 20 FEB 2008, ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL
PERMANENTLY OR TEMPORARILY ASSIGNED TO OKINAWA, CAMP FUJI, AND IWAKUNI,
JAPAN, OR WHO ARE TRANSITING THROUGH THESE LOCATIONS IN A TAD/TDY/LEAVE
STATUS, WILL OBSERVE A PERIOD OF REFLECTION UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

4. COMMANDER*S INTENT: MY INTENTION IS TO UTILIZE THE TIME WITHIN THIS
PERIOD OF REFLECTION TO REVIEW ALL APPROPRIATE PLANS, PROCEDURES, ORDERS AND
REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE CONDUCT OF ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL SERVING IN
OKINAWA, CAMP FUJI, AND IWAKUNI, JAPAN. RECENT HIGHLY REPORTED INCIDENTS
INVOLVING U.S. SERVICE PERSONNEL SERVING IN JAPAN WARRANT MEASURES BE TAKEN
UNTIL SUCH TIME AS TO BRING AN INCREMENTAL RETURN TO A MORE NORMAL STATE OF
AFFAIRS. I NEED LEADERS AT ALL ECHELONS IN ALL SERVICES TO HELP REINFORCE
WHAT THE VAST MAJORITY DO WELL AS FORWARD SERVING AMBASSADORS OF AMERICA,
WHILE WE COLLECTIVELY POLICE OUR RANKS TO IDENTIFY THOSE FEW INDIVIDUALS WHO
WOULD DESTROY OUR GOOD STANDING AND REPUTATION WITH THE JAPANESE PEOPLE. I
FULLY INTEND TO DEMONSTRATE OUR COMMITMENT TO EXEMPLARY COMMUNITY RELATIONS
THAT APPROPRIATELY CAPTURE THE PROFESSIONALISM AND GOOD WILL OF THE AMERICAN
PEOPLE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND PATIENCE DURING THESE
DIFFICULT TIMES. YOUR OVERWHELMINGLY SUPERB BEHAVIOR AND EXEMPLARY CONDUCT
IS NOT LOST ON ANY OF YOUR LEADERS WHO REMAIN INTENSELY PROUD OF YOUR
SERVICE AND PATRIOTISM. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO AND FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE.

4.A. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS: ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL MOVEMENTS ARE LIMITED
TO THE FOLLOWING:
PLACE OF DUTY
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT
PLACE OF WORSHIP
PLACE OF EDUCATION
PLACE OF MEDICAL, DENTAL, VETERINARY TREATMENT AIRPORTS (FOR THE PURPOSE OF
PICKING UP OR DROPPING OFF PASSENGERS OR FOR AUTHORIZED TRAVEL) ALL ON-BASE
FACILITIES TO TRANSIT BETWEEN ONE*S AUTHORIZED RESIDENCE, INCLUDING OFF-BASE
HOUSING, AND ANY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DOD) INSTALLATION VIA PRIVATELY
OWNED VEHICLES, MILITARY SUPPORTED TRANSPORTATION, AND COMMERCIAL TAXI.

CURRENTLY SCHEDULED COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROJECTS 4.B. COORDINATING
INSTRUCTIONS: EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY ARE DELEGATED TO THE O-6 LEVEL
COMMANDERS TO APPROVE PRE-EXISTING AND PRE-REGISTERED OBLIGATIONS OR SPECIAL
EVENTS ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS .

5. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS: COMMANDERS ARE REQUIRED TO DISSEMINATE THIS
MESSAGE TO ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL. POC ARE "edited to remove personal info"

WRIGHT/COMMAND INSPECTOR GENERAL, "edited to remove personal info"
6. COMMAND AND SIGNAL: *SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL* INCLUDES ALL UNITED STATES
ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL, DOD CIVILIANS, DOD INVITED CONTRACTORS, AND THEIR
RESPECTIVE FAMILY MEMBERS.
6.A. THIS IS A PUNITIVE ORDER AND AS SUCH VIOLATION OF THIS ORDER BY ARMED
FORCES PERSONNEL CAN RESULT IN PUNISHMENT UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY
JUSTICE. ALL OTHER SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL INCLUDING FAMILY MEMBERS ARE
REMINDED THEY ARE SUBJECT TO THE FULL RANGE OF ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS
INCLUDING LOSS OF COMMAND SPONSORSHIP AND DEBARMENT.

So now you can end the speculation...

[Boost]

Only a short time ago, I was ridiculed for suggesting that people here may rise up against the military. Now, look who's hiding! It *is* open season on US troops in Japan.

Can we say "troll"?

And for the Wikipedia heads out there...


Forum Troll (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forum_troll)

An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_slang), is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_forum), with the intention of baiting (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baiting_%28Internet%29) other users into an emotional response[1] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forum_troll#_note-0) or to generally disrupt normal on-topic discussion.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forum_troll#_note-1)

[socalheart]

I am sufficiently miffed. :cursing: At least we can pick up and drop off visiting relatives. We just can't show them how nice a place Okinawa is to visit. Instead, we're showing our families that the military has all but declared Marshall Law. Yes, I'm exagerrating, because I'm fit to be tied. What upsets me is that it was active duty persons who committed the crimes, but we all have to be punished. It makes you want to bring back stoning and the like. "Period of reflection" my left yellow butt cheek! They're afraid of one of their other idiots doing something stupid. I'm so peeved, I should just stop...

[DougP]

Oh well thank goodness for the gaijin torokusho :D:D

[socalheart]

giga-what? read that phrase often, but still don't know what it is. what is it?

[DoctorP]

Well, after reading that "official" memo, it's a good thing that I worship SanA! See you there!

[IndyGal]

Hee, hee, DocP :D

[silviasichigo]

well it is nice to have a JP driver license and gaijin torokusho stamped in the old passport in somecases :D

[nchittum]

Excerpts from offical military communication rcv'd this morning:

2. SITUATION: TO ENSURE ALL STATUS OF FORCES AGREEMENT (SOFA) STATUS
PERSONNEL UNDERSTAND THEIR ROLES AS AMBASSADORS OF THE UNITED STATES IN
JAPAN. AS THE OKINAWA AREA COORDINATOR, I AM DIRECTING ALL SOFA STATUS
PERSONNEL TO OBSERVE A PERIOD OF REFLECTION, LIMITING OFF -BASE ACTIVITIES
OF A PERSONAL AND RECREATIONAL NATURE.

3. MISSION: EFFECTIVE 0730, 20 FEB 2008, ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL
PERMANENTLY OR TEMPORARILY ASSIGNED TO OKINAWA, CAMP FUJI, AND IWAKUNI,
JAPAN, OR WHO ARE TRANSITING THROUGH THESE LOCATIONS IN A TAD/TDY/LEAVE
STATUS, WILL OBSERVE A PERIOD OF REFLECTION UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

4. COMMANDER*S INTENT: MY INTENTION IS TO UTILIZE THE TIME WITHIN THIS
PERIOD OF REFLECTION TO REVIEW ALL APPROPRIATE PLANS, PROCEDURES, ORDERS AND
REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE CONDUCT OF ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL SERVING IN
OKINAWA, CAMP FUJI, AND IWAKUNI, JAPAN. RECENT HIGHLY REPORTED INCIDENTS
INVOLVING U.S. SERVICE PERSONNEL SERVING IN JAPAN WARRANT MEASURES BE TAKEN
UNTIL SUCH TIME AS TO BRING AN INCREMENTAL RETURN TO A MORE NORMAL STATE OF
AFFAIRS. I NEED LEADERS AT ALL ECHELONS IN ALL SERVICES TO HELP REINFORCE
WHAT THE VAST MAJORITY DO WELL AS FORWARD SERVING AMBASSADORS OF AMERICA,
WHILE WE COLLECTIVELY POLICE OUR RANKS TO IDENTIFY THOSE FEW INDIVIDUALS WHO
WOULD DESTROY OUR GOOD STANDING AND REPUTATION WITH THE JAPANESE PEOPLE. I
FULLY INTEND TO DEMONSTRATE OUR COMMITMENT TO EXEMPLARY COMMUNITY RELATIONS
THAT APPROPRIATELY CAPTURE THE PROFESSIONALISM AND GOOD WILL OF THE AMERICAN
PEOPLE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND PATIENCE DURING THESE
DIFFICULT TIMES. YOUR OVERWHELMINGLY SUPERB BEHAVIOR AND EXEMPLARY CONDUCT
IS NOT LOST ON ANY OF YOUR LEADERS WHO REMAIN INTENSELY PROUD OF YOUR
SERVICE AND PATRIOTISM. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO AND FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE.

4.A. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS: ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL MOVEMENTS ARE LIMITED
TO THE FOLLOWING:
PLACE OF DUTY
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT
PLACE OF WORSHIP
PLACE OF EDUCATION
PLACE OF MEDICAL, DENTAL, VETERINARY TREATMENT AIRPORTS (FOR THE PURPOSE OF
PICKING UP OR DROPPING OFF PASSENGERS OR FOR AUTHORIZED TRAVEL) ALL ON-BASE
FACILITIES TO TRANSIT BETWEEN ONE*S AUTHORIZED RESIDENCE, INCLUDING OFF-BASE
HOUSING, AND ANY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DOD) INSTALLATION VIA PRIVATELY
OWNED VEHICLES, MILITARY SUPPORTED TRANSPORTATION, AND COMMERCIAL TAXI.

CURRENTLY SCHEDULED COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROJECTS 4.B. COORDINATING
INSTRUCTIONS: EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY ARE DELEGATED TO THE O-6 LEVEL
COMMANDERS TO APPROVE PRE-EXISTING AND PRE-REGISTERED OBLIGATIONS OR SPECIAL
EVENTS ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS .

5. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS: COMMANDERS ARE REQUIRED TO DISSEMINATE THIS
MESSAGE TO ALL SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL. POC ARE "edited to remove personal info"

WRIGHT/COMMAND INSPECTOR GENERAL, "edited to remove personal info"
6. COMMAND AND SIGNAL: *SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL* INCLUDES ALL UNITED STATES
ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL, DOD CIVILIANS, DOD INVITED CONTRACTORS, AND THEIR
RESPECTIVE FAMILY MEMBERS.
6.A. THIS IS A PUNITIVE ORDER AND AS SUCH VIOLATION OF THIS ORDER BY ARMED
FORCES PERSONNEL CAN RESULT IN PUNISHMENT UNDER THE UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY
JUSTICE. ALL OTHER SOFA STATUS PERSONNEL INCLUDING FAMILY MEMBERS ARE
REMINDED THEY ARE SUBJECT TO THE FULL RANGE OF ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS
INCLUDING LOSS OF COMMAND SPONSORSHIP AND DEBARMENT.

So now you can end the speculation...

You know, I may be paranoid, but this is crap. Once this is over, the military guys in all branches are going to go nuts! It's like keeping a dog caged up for a day, when you let them loose they run wild with no incling to what they are doing.

And they may not be saying specifically that it is for safety reasons, but there were some 50 accidents involving the military where the Japanese driver caused the accident. This is also the land of Kamakazi. Does that not scare anyone? They are pissed off at us for the actions of a few and there's no telling what they will do. It seems a bit of overkill, yes, but aren't we supposed to be able to feel safe when we are overseas?

Also, has anyone heard anything about them sending some 8,000 people to other places to reduce our numbers here because of these incidences?

[OtisPMerriweather]

What upsets me is that it was active duty persons who committed the crimes, but we all have to be punished.... They're afraid of one of their other idiots doing something stupid.

Yes, they are concerned about more incidents, and rightly so. If I was in charge I would do the same because it has been demonstrated that trusting people to do the right thing- which includes looking out for each other AS WELL AS taking personal responsibility.

Might I also add that it if it weren't for us idiots, civilians wouldn't have jobs over here either...

[nchittum]

Was reading on the Kadena web site this morning that economic impact of Kadena Airbase on the Okinawan economy is some $7 mil. annually... thats roughly $590,000 a month just from Kadena, won't that hurt coming out of their pockets if this goes on for 1 to 2 months?

[socalheart]

The dependents and civilians weren't the ones who did something criminal or didn't look after their own. It was active duty members. I disagree with the restriction being on all SOFA persons.

I didn't say that all service members were idiots. You read it wrong. I said they didn't want one of their idiots to do something wrong. What you said implies to me that you think all service members are idiots. Do you see how wording is important in definition now?

Yes, they are concerned about more incidents, and rightly so. If I was in charge I would do the same because it has been demonstrated that trusting people to do the right thing- which includes looking out for each other AS WELL AS taking personal responsibility.

Might I also add that it if it weren't for us idiots, civilians wouldn't have jobs over here either...

[DoctorP]

Was reading on the Kadena web site this morning that economic impact of Kadena Airbase on the Okinawan economy is some $7 mil. annually... thats roughly $590,000 a month just from Kadena, won't that hurt coming out of their pockets if this goes on for 1 to 2 months?

Those numbers would include rent, utilities, etc...which will be paid even if the lockdown is in effect.

[DougP]

Well this also technically means contractor don't have to clock out.:) Being under direct orders and all. So some folks will be collecting overtime.:D This backfired the last time they tried to include contractors in with the lock down. w00t time and a half.

[silviasichigo]

Might I also add that it if it weren't for us idiots, civilians wouldn't have jobs over here either...

Well True enough however it is a cause and effect situation..if there wasn't a need for you to be over here you wouldn't be, just like there is a "need" for the civilian counter parts to be here to get all available military personnel on the line....in the feild....etc Being a former Marine I feel that some of the Assholes here speak before they think, name call whatever because of another persons bad judgement, but calling me an idiot is grounds for an ass kicking.... I think they are just upset shit happens

Thank you for the message I have passed it along to my boss.

[DoctorP]

The dependents and civilians weren't the ones who did something criminal or didn't look after their own. It was active duty members. I disagree with the restriction being on all SOFA persons.

I didn't say that all service members were idiots. You read it wrong. I said they didn't want one of their idiots to do something wrong. What you said implies to me that you think all service members are idiots. Do you see how wording is important in definition now?

Have you already forgotten the AF dependent that clubbed the bar girl with a bottle and raped her...then the family tried to fly him off island?

[DougP]

Have you already forgotten the AF dependent that clubbed the bar girl with a bottle and raped her...then the family tried to fly him off island?

Its still mass punishment anyway you look at it. It would be like restricting all military members due t a crime committed by a dependent or restricting all Okinawans due to a crime committed by a Japanese tourist. Doesn't solve anything or make any sense it just quiets the angry mob momentarily.

[DoctorP]

I was merely reminding her of the fact that dependents do commit crimes here in Okinawa and it is not only the AD Marines.

[socalheart]

Have you already forgotten the AF dependent that clubbed the bar girl with a bottle and raped her...then the family tried to fly him off island?
I was merely reminding her of the fact that dependents do commit crimes here in Okinawa and it is not only the AD Marines.

Has this happened since the alleged rape? I am talking about this incident, which is punishment for what active duty peoople have done. I know that dependents commit crimes. I've lived here as long as you, if not longer.
No, I didn't forget. I don't recall ever hearing/reading about it.

[DougP]

That they do. :D Hell every category be it a branch of service, dependents DOD, etc has a few blemishes. No particular group is perfect, not even local residents or tourists. We're all a bunch of savages:D

[DoctorP]

Has this happened since the alleged rape?
No, I didn't forget. I don't recall ever hearing/reading about it.

No, but it was only a few months ago. You implying that AF or dependents should not be included in a lockdown didn't make sense to me.

Edit: Here is the old JU thread: http://www.japanupdate.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1711&highlight=dependent+rape

[P_chan]

Like I said before. They can't lock ALL dependants down.

[OtisPMerriweather]

From Stars and Stripes (admittedly not the best source of info, but hey):

Of the 46 individuals arrested last year, 30 were active-duty servicemembers, one was a civilian employee and 15 were dependents. Twenty were younger than 20 years old, considered minors under Japanese law.

In 2006, there were 38 servicemembers, three civilians, and 22 dependents arrested, including 23 minors.
...
There are about 42,570 Americans living on Okinawa under the SOFA, about 3 percent of the 1.4 million people who live in the prefecture. According to the prefectural police report, there were six “heinous” crimes committed by six individuals last year, compared with five incidents involving five Americans in 2006.

Okinawa police define a heinous crime as murder, robbery, rape, arson and sexual assault.

So I guess we all shoulder a bit of the load. Active duty or not.

[DoctorP]

From Stars and Stripes (admittedly not the best source of info, but hey):

Of the 46 individuals arrested last year, 30 were active-duty servicemembers, one was a civilian employee and 15 were dependents. Twenty were younger than 20 years old, considered minors under Japanese law.

In 2006, there were 38 servicemembers, three civilians, and 22 dependents arrested, including 23 minors.
...
There are about 42,570 Americans living on Okinawa under the SOFA, about 3 percent of the 1.4 million people who live in the prefecture. According to the prefectural police report, there were six “heinous” crimes committed by six individuals last year, compared with five incidents involving five Americans in 2006.

Okinawa police define a heinous crime as murder, robbery, rape, arson and sexual assault.

So I guess we all shoulder a bit of the load. Active duty or not.

If you are going to post previously published material, please provide a link to said material.

[OtisPMerriweather]

oops...here it is:

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=52639

[Black Orchid]

ahh this lockdown sucks hard... i guess i cant go to the mall then or get some food off base? wack.

[IndyGal]

The dependents and civilians weren't the ones who did something criminal or didn't look after their own. It was active duty members. I disagree with the restriction being on all SOFA persons.

I feel the same way socal, but I think they are just making sure nothing happens by anyone. Afterall other sofa status members (other than military) have gotten into trouble before as well.

[hankypanky]

I really think it's because secretary of state Rice is coming to japan next week and they don't want any more incidents before she arrives. They did the same think back in 2000 when Slick Willie came to oki. wasn't a lockdown, but you had to be in uniform 24 hours a day and had to be in quarters by 12, everyone!

[socalheart]

yes indy but i still think it sucks. :cursing: heh. i understand it doesn't apply to locals who are also dependents. so they can visit they're family here, but i'm not a local, and i have family here, so i have to get permission to see my own mother. that is my primary piss off.

[VWBOYAF1]

Man, I was just in Okinawa last month on leave. It would funny to be there now on VISA status. I would be wondering what the hell happened to everybody.

Well, the commander had to do something. Even if this is just a show. As far as that "official" memo goes. I think it is a fake. Who talks about reflection and what not. Maybe it was written for the local government to read, with langauge pleasing the Japanese. Just sounds strange to read.

It is too bad that General Zilmer can't throw it back, saying how much better behaved we are than the locals. Oh well, you have to be very political once you reach a certain level.

[macker]

Everyone...... COOL the JETS!!! RELAX.. This too will pass !!(insert any other cliche you may want)..

1) it's only until Sunday.
2) It's been done before, normalcy will return
3) if you do gout, don't get caught
4) They can do it to all SOFA, this came about after the 95 issue and another one in mainland I think. All they can do if you're a civilian is kick you off base, so you loose your job. They can't lock you up or anything.

5) I'm leaving soon anyway so I don't a **** about this shit anymore.


IF (And i will say "IF" as this was also the rumor after the 95 rape) a group of Japanese were coming here to incite trouble, then I think the Marines should be let off base, let these "groups" start and let the USMC have free reign on them. That'll teach them not to incite.

Listen, I know it sucks to be cooped up for a few days, the problem here is that the Leadership on Okinawa/Japan (military) has no say in this really, or if they do, no balls to stand up up to the higher up thats demanding a result NOW!!
This "lockdown" is a knee jerk reaction that will backfire once again, when it does, there will be another lockdown, then followed by off-limits, curfews, etc. We've been through it all. Nothing works. What the leaders should be looking at is...(just some rambling thoughts, disagree if you like)

1) Keep all under 20's (not legal age to drink) on base (liberty card). But allowed to go on Sponsored tours or something, this includes dependents.
2) Stop winding up/stressing out military members all week and then hand them a paycheck and say-- "have fun" on the weekend.
3) The "buddy system" is broke because it allows two 18 year olds to go out "drinking" unsupervised. How about a younger/less ranked troop must be escorted by at least 2 or 3 grades up. Both held completly responsible for each other actions, and (this is important) hold them ACCOUNTABLE.
4) Increase the punishments (an overseas infridgment :doubles or triples normal punishement).
5) After serving in a combat zone, MUST return to USA for X amount of time to blow off steam/get counseling/get obliterated.

I don't know, Just some thoughts.

I know Hadnott is a different story, he is either way stupid or he was a predetor that will/would do whatever he did/didn't do wherever and however he could.

Just remember, this too will pass.....

[OtisPMerriweather]

Memo was not a fake, it was emailed to all personnel aboard MCBJ.

Also, you could do your own research and go to Google News, type "okinawa", and take note of the hundreds of articles that mention a "period of reflection".

Just a suggestion...:thumbup:

[DougP]

According to the order that was just read to us, it stated "until further notice" not "until Sunday" :D

Its great for the contractors because now we're on official orders to be at home. Just like being on orders to Iraq or some other place. Being under orders means we can collect pay for all those hours we are under orders and instructed to be at a particular place.:D Sweet.

[macker]

DougP...

Sorry, You're correct....I must have been looking at the rough draft!! :D

[Ammoyankee]

IF (And i will say "IF" as this was also the rumor after the 95 rape) a group of Japanese were coming here to incite trouble, then I think the Marines should be let off base, let these "groups" start and let the USMC have free reign on them. That'll teach them not to incite.

1) Keep all under 20's (not legal age to drink) on base (liberty card). But allowed to go on Sponsored tours or something, this includes dependents.
2) Stop winding up/stressing out military members all week and then hand them a paycheck and say-- "have fun" on the weekend.
3) The "buddy system" is broke because it allows two 18 year olds to go out "drinking" unsupervised. How about a younger/less ranked troop must be escorted by at least 2 or 3 grades up. Both held completly responsible for each other actions, and (this is important) hold them ACCOUNTABLE.
4) Increase the punishments (an overseas infridgment :doubles or triples normal punishement).
5) After serving in a combat zone, MUST return to USA for X amount of time to blow off steam/get counseling/get obliterated.

I don't know, Just some thoughts.

I know Hadnott is a different story, he is either way stupid or he was a predetor that will/would do whatever he did/didn't do wherever and however he could.

Just remember, this too will pass.....

Wow, I understand your upset as we all are but do you really think the above recommendations would work?

1. While the under 20 crowd does commit crimes, most are minor in comparison to the E-5 thru E-7 crowd recently.

2. Winding/stressing is how the military has run and always will. Of course, we have to get paid!

3. Why should I be assigned to take an E-2 out drinking and be responsible for his actions. While I am a supervisor, I am not mother, babysitter or the Pope!

4. Local commanders usually have the option of what punishments to levy, especially the many options available with Article 15 actions.

5. Why the USA, why not Thailand or the P.I.!:thumbup1:

And, the first comment about letting the Marines reign over the instigators? You definately asking for trouble, they are a helluva lot more angry locals than there are Devil Dogs!

[okisteve]

Well, after reading that "official" memo, it's a good thing that I worship SanA! See you there!

Lots of guys worship at Maehara also.

[Ammoyankee]

Only a short time ago, I was ridiculed for suggesting that people here may rise up against the military. Now, look who's hiding! It *is* open season on US troops in Japan.

Who's hiding Eel? I'll bet that's you burning the flag in your avatar!

[socalheart]

I don't want to cool my jets. "Jets temperature just fine." (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104926/)

1) Is that "official"?
2) Yes, but it bothers me that I can't see my own mother or pay my bills or even buy trash bags due to this.
3) heh.
4) Of course they can, but it doesn't mean it's right.
5) Like, when? (heehee ;) )


Everyone...... COOL the JETS!!! RELAX.. This too will pass !!(insert any other cliche you may want)..

1) it's only until Sunday.
2) It's been done before, normalcy will return
3) if you do gout, don't get caught
4) They can do it to all SOFA, this came about after the 95 issue and another one in mainland I think. All they can do if you're a civilian is kick you off base, so you loose your job. They can't lock you up or anything.

5) I'm leaving soon anyway so I don't a **** about this shit anymore.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

A bit off topic, but the pic in my current avatar is from the 1995 protests after the gang rape incident.

[Boost]

A bit off topic, but the pic in my current avatar is from the 1995 protests after the gang rape incident.

As was your snippet about "who's hiding now". It would appear to me that people are not "hiding" but adhering to an order put in place do the recent incidents.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Command asking troops to...think! Will the demands never end?


U.S. Forces Japan also will designate Feb 22 as a "Day of Reflection" for all U.S. military facilities in Japan while setting up a "Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Task Force" as part of their efforts to make sure similar incidents never happen again.


http://www.japantoday.com/jp/news/428568

[silviasichigo]

A bit off topic, but the pic in my current avatar is from the 1995 protests after the gang rape incident.

:rolleyes: If I didn't think that you were in states eating hamburgers and kicking dogs...I would probably think you actually took the pic :D

[Mintus]

Well they still allow us to pick people up from the airport so I'm happy. Woot.

[Ammoyankee]

Command asking troops to...think! Will the demands never end?


Hehe, can't argue with that one at times Eel!

[macker]

AmmoYankee,

I'm actually not upset, I saw this coming when I heard about the rape on Feb 11. Besides I'm leaving within the week, I don't care. :)
Some quick rebuttals if you please;
1) Recently or otherwise I would say that the majority of incidents (maybe minor) are by younger.lower ranks
2) I agree, but some caution needs to be taken to lessen the effects of this stress
3) Looking after your own, "sea daddy" so to speak. If you're unwilling to be part of the solution...:D I mean at the end of the day, you are being held accoutbale for actions of others (see current lockdown for proof)
4) Maybe, but there is a limit to what they can dish out for certain offenses (underage drinking and minor stuff) ..at least I think there is.
5) HAHA...That'd be a great idea, but then incidences will just transfer to another country.

I don't think too many locals would care if a bunch of antagonizing mainlanders were slapped around..

[OtisPMerriweather]

Well, I bet you one thing...MCCS is probably licking its chops right now over the lockdown...People will actually start going to the base clubs and bowling alleys again, liquor sales in those places will probably triple. All the on base hotels, lodges, etc. will be full on the weekends since love motels are out of the question, and all the base eateries will start seeing a lot more traffic.

I just hope that with more people packed into the clubs because there is no where else to go (add to that the young Japanese girls who will undoubtedly begin to hang out there) that there isn't a fight or some kind of sexual assault on base involving a local. That would suck.

Here's hoping people start making good decisions..:crying:

[hankypanky]

Well, I bet you one thing...MCCS is probably licking its chops right now over the lockdown...People will actually start going to the base clubs and bowling alleys again, liquor sales in those places will probably triple. All the on base hotels, lodges, etc. will be full on the weekends since love motels are out of the question, and all the base eateries will start seeing a lot more traffic.

I just hope that with more people packed into the clubs because there is no where else to go (add to that the young Japanese girls who will undoubtedly begin to hang out there) that there isn't a fight or some kind of sexual assault on base involving a local. That would suck.

Here's hoping people start making good decisions..:crying:

unless they come down and say no guests. libery secured.

[nohohonzokuman]

I wonder how that will affect the Okinawan economy?


This is not going to affect the Okianwa Economy. Do you think that the American armed forces are the main source of Okinawa income?!

[Harley_Diverson]

How about restricting the little local girls from coming on base also.:army:

[theoman833]

According to my leadership my wife and kids (who are japanese citizens) are lockked down as well. So now i get the fun task of going home and explaining to them why they can not go out and about in their own country.:thumbdown:

[Harley_Diverson]

This is not going to affect the Okianwa Economy. Do you think that the American armed forces are the main source of Okinawa income?!


Jusco and other business in Hamby town are saying they will file a law suit against the Okinawian Govt with the loss of business.

[nohohonzokuman]

Jusco and other business in Hamby town are saying they will file a law suit against the Okinawian Govt with the loss of business.

There are other cities on this island besides Hamby, Mihama, and Gate 2. Have you ever been down in Naha, or in Urasoe, or Gushikawa, or even up where the resorts are. There are a lot more places on island that don't need Americans to get by. In fact, most of the places that once allowed americans, but now ban them from their stores are doing better because they get more Japanese customers.

[DoctorP]

Well they still allow us to pick people up from the airport so I'm happy. Woot.

Only on "Official" travel. Your friends, family, etc..are not official travel, and you still need to request permission to do so.

[socalheart]

PLACE OF MEDICAL, DENTAL, VETERINARY TREATMENT AIRPORTS (FOR THE PURPOSE OF PICKING UP OR DROPPING OFF PASSENGERS OR FOR AUTHORIZED TRAVEL)
You can pick people up from the airport, based on the provided document.

[Takako]

There are other cities on this island besides Hamby, Mihama, and Gate 2. Have you ever been down in Naha, or in Urasoe, or Gushikawa, or even up where the resorts are. There are a lot more places on island that don't need Americans to get by. In fact, most of the places that once allowed americans, but now ban them from their stores are doing better because they get more Japanese customers.

This is the poorest prefecture in Japan with a great deal of money coming from tourists and the military. Its not tourist season and then take out the HUGE population of the military and it will affect the Okinawan economy.

[macker]

here we go....

Now the thread is getting good!!!

[VWBOYAF1]

Even if it is 1-2% of the Gross income of the island, that is still a huge impact overall. The politicians should be very careful not to portray their island paradise as being overrun with insane, baby eating marines. It might scare off the tourists.

If they were smart they would downplay this, and explain that the actual criminal will pay for his crimes, just like any other criminal. There is no need to get everybodies emotion's running so high. Only more people will get hurt. Not smart at all.

[nohohonzokuman]

The politicians should be very careful not to portray their island paradise as being overrun with insane, baby eating marines. It might scare off the tourists.

It would be nice if it were that simple, but the Japanese news will blow it out proportion anyways. Even if the politicians don't say anything.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Do you suggest that the Japanese follow the US news model? If so, in what way is it different - in what way better?

[Ammoyankee]

Do you suggest that the Japanese follow the US news model? If so, in what way is it different - in what way better?

Sure why not, what the hell! Is that what you wanted to hear?

Now I suppose we are going to be bored with 20+ or so posts with google cut and pastes on how bad US News has been in the past and is it really better or whatever. Go for it!

[Ammoyankee]

They need to get rid of our military and bring in the Canadian military... How much trouble can 50 people cause???

[DougP]

Does anyone else out there think of this mass punishment as a little overboard and counter productive?

By the logic of this order wouldn't it then be correct to round up every middle eastern in the US and place them under restriction because a few terrorists from Saudi Arabia hijacked some planes and flew them into the WTC. Or is this just an another example of fine US government/military thinking?

[okisteve]

Does anyone else out there think of this mass punishment as a little overboard and counter productive?

By the logic of this order wouldn't it then be correct to round up every middle eastern in the US and place them under restriction because a few terrorists from Saudi Arabia hijacked some planes and flew them into the WTC. Or is this just an another example of fine US government thinking?

Doug, actually that's pretty damn near to what happened for a few months after 9/11. Not literally everyone, but a lot, and a whole lot more were terrified. How soon we forget.:old:

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

My bet is that very few US military types watch Japanese news, or read it - let alone understand it. What little they do get is hand-picked, condensed, and translated by their own people. See any problems with that?

[macker]

Does anyone else out there think of this mass punishment as a little overboard and counter productive?

By the logic of this order wouldn't it then be correct to round up every middle eastern in the US and place them under restriction because a few terrorists from Saudi Arabia hijacked some planes and flew them into the WTC. Or is this just an another example of fine US government/military thinking?

Wasn't Gitmo an attempt at this??? :D

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Doug, actually that's pretty damn near to what happened for a few months after 9/11. Not literally everyone, but a lot, and a whole lot more were terrified. How soon we forget.:old:
Yeah, Doug! Imagine what would have happened had the Saudis been allowed to exempt over a hundred of their own people from FBI interviews, and have them flown home before the no-fly restrictions had been removed for US citizens!! People would not have stood for that...

[Ammoyankee]

Does anyone else out there think of this mass punishment as a little overboard and counter productive?

By the logic of this order wouldn't it then be correct to round up every middle eastern in the US and place them under restriction because a few terrorists from Saudi Arabia hijacked some planes and flew them into the WTC. Or is this just an another example of fine US government/military thinking?

Yes and yes but with the military it's what you learn to expect...

[DougP]

Doug, actually that's pretty damn near to what happened for a few months after 9/11. Not literally everyone, but a lot, and a whole lot more were terrified. How soon we forget.:old:

Yeah I remember that, that's why I linked it to good ol' American Government thinking.:thumbdown: Not very surgical, is it?:) But you're right, how soon we forget, then repeat, and apply it to not only our own citizens but those of another nation. :thumbdown:

[DougP]

Yeah, Doug! Imagine what would have happened had the Saudis been allowed to exempt over a hundred of their own people from FBI interviews, and have them flown home before the no-fly restrictions had been removed for US citizens!! People would not have stood for that...

Yet another example, a peek if you will, at the brain driving this train. Yes, eel, that same brain and its driving techniques are at work here too, in this order. Round up the masses, protect the interests, ignore the people. Fine model of intuitive thinking they have.:thumbdown:

[DougP]

Wasn't Gitmo an attempt at this??? :D

Why I believe you might just be right. :army:

[VWBOYAF1]

Does anyone else out there think of this mass punishment as a little overboard and counter productive?

By the logic of this order wouldn't it then be correct to round up every middle eastern in the US and place them under restriction because a few terrorists from Saudi Arabia hijacked some planes and flew them into the WTC. Or is this just an another example of fine US government/military thinking?

Ummm. dude. This is something we did during WWdeuce. Probably a sore subject with the Japanese. Horrible example to make your case.

[DougP]

Ummm. dude. This is something we did during WWdeuce. Probably a sore subject with the Japanese. Horrible example to make your case.

Yup another example. And as I was pointing out it seems to be the same logic being applied to this mass punishment. I'm sure all those Japanese-Americans rounded up in WWII we imprisoned for their own safety as well.:thumbdown:

[okisteve]

Yeah I remember that, that's why I linked it to good ol' American Government thinking.:thumbdown: Not very surgical, is it?:) But you're right, how soon we forget, then repeat, and apply it to not only our own citizens but those of another nation. :thumbdown:

Got it, but I had to look hard.

You wouldn't then be looking askance at the PATRIOT Act, would you?

[VWBOYAF1]

My bet is that very few US military types watch Japanese news, or read it - let alone understand it. What little they do get is hand-picked, condensed, and translated by their own people. See any problems with that?

I watch a lot of Japanese news. I like when they hand-pick, condense, and translate ABC Nightly News.

The story about the stork with the fishing line on its beak was great. I like how it took a week to figure out how to help it.

[P_chan]

According to my leadership my wife and kids (who are japanese citizens) are lockked down as well. So now i get the fun task of going home and explaining to them why they can not go out and about in their own country.:thumbdown:

They can't do this. Is your wife still a Japanese citizen? If so, then she can come and go as she pleases. Sure she's sofa status, but if she tried to leave base, they really can't do anything if she's still a japanese citizen.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Who's your favorite interpreter on NHK? That's news baby, oh yeah!

[DougP]

Got it, but I had to look hard.

You wouldn't then be looking askance at the PATRIOT Act, would you?

I may not seem like it but I'm very much against the government being up in its citizen's business.:thumbdown: I wish they would just back the f$%k up sometimes:cursing:

[hankypanky]

They can't do this. Is your wife still a Japanese citizen? If so, then she can come and go as she pleases. Sure she's sofa status, but if she tried to leave base, they really can't do anything if she's still a japanese citizen.

they can still revoke your sponsorship and have you pay out of pocket for your dependants to live in town. the man can pretty do anything he wants as long as those dep have i.d. cards.

[DougP]

Who's your favorite interpreter on NHK? That's news baby, oh yeah!

I've only heard the one guy and he doesn't sound too enthusiastic about his job.:D

[Asshat]

they can still revoke your sponsorship and have you pay out of pocket for your dependants to live in town. the man can pretty do anything he wants as long as those dep have i.d. cards.

They can pull SOFA and ban from base, just like that. Will they do it to a Japanese? Probably not. But they certainly can.

[DougP]

they can still revoke your sponsorship and have you pay out of pocket for your dependants to live in town. the man can pretty do anything he wants as long as those dep have i.d. cards.

Yup, that is if the man is the one lining your pockets. Its nice when the military has nothing to do with your housing or pay.:thumbup::thumbup: Or your wifes pay for that matter.

[Ammoyankee]

They can't do this. Is your wife still a Japanese citizen? If so, then she can come and go as she pleases. Sure she's sofa status, but if she tried to leave base, they really can't do anything if she's still a japanese citizen.


I just got the word from my Captain... As of now, Okinawan spouses are granted no special privileges which includes going to family home!

P_Chan, unfortunately they can do this to your spouse. When she married you, she became a SOFA dependent first and a Japanese citizen second... She is on your command sponsorship paperwork as your spouse, therefore she is a dependent, cut and dry.

[VWBOYAF1]

Okay, I was wondering if this sort of thing is happening on the mainland? My wife (Okinawan) feels like it only happens in Okinawa and that is what makes her the most angry. That we are somehow intentionally insulting Okinawa by acting like we own it and can do what ever we want, but refrain from acting up around Tokyo.

[P_chan]

they can still revoke your sponsorship and have you pay out of pocket for your dependants to live in town. the man can pretty do anything he wants as long as those dep have i.d. cards.

But she can still go to work and anywhere else on this island if she wanted to. My wife works full time, makes more then me.

[Ammoyankee]

Okay, I was wondering if this sort of thing is happening on the mainland? My wife (Okinawan) feels like it only happens in Okinawa and that is what makes her the most angry. That we are somehow intentionally insulting Okinawa by acting like we own it and can do what ever we want, but refrain from acting up around Tokyo.


Yep it does... Rape, murder and burglary!

[VWBOYAF1]

Who's your favorite interpreter on NHK? That's news baby, oh yeah!

I only watch NHK for the documentaries. Can't understand a word, but it looks nice.:D

[hankypanky]

But she can still go to work and anywhere else on this island if she wanted to. My wife works full time, makes more then me.

right on. she can do that plus go shopping if she has too. but who is going to monitor off base? the jp's? see a Y plate at mcdonalds, are they going to call the mps? good question, expecially if it is an okinawan wife.

[P_chan]

I just got the word from my Captain... As of now, Okinawan spouses are granted no special privileges which includes going to family home!

P_Chan, unfortunately they can do this to your spouse. When she married you, she became a SOFA dependent first and a Japanese citizen second... She is on your command sponsorship paperwork as your spouse, therefore she is a dependent, cut and dry.

Right, let me go down to naha right now and tell her she has to come home from work:rolleyes:

[P_chan]

right on. she can do that plus go shopping if she has too. but who is going to monitor off base? the jp's? see a Y plate at mcdonalds, are they going to call the mps? good question, expecially if it is an okinawan wife.

Good thing my wife has hiragana plates.

[DougP]

I've heard this is going on up in mainland as well.

[DoctorP]

The order affected Camp Fuji and Iwakuni (which are part of III MEF) but I am unsure if the AF or Navy bases up there were affected.

[Ammoyankee]

I've heard this is going on up in mainland as well.


Acoording to the commanders channel, I believe it affects Iwakuni and Camp Fuji also

[okisteve]

I just got the word from my Captain... As of now, Okinawan spouses are granted no special privileges which includes going to family home!

P_Chan, unfortunately they can do this to your spouse. When she married you, she became a SOFA dependent first and a Japanese citizen second... She is on your command sponsorship paperwork as your spouse, therefore she is a dependent, cut and dry.

Uh oh. Lots of peeps wives going to bed angry tonight!

[VWBOYAF1]

DougP just started a new thread requesting that JU run with the US restricting okinawan travel story. I'm going to get popcorn.

[silviasichigo]

Not mine woot! haha that is all I will say about that.....

[VWBOYAF1]

Uh oh. Lots of peeps wives going to bed angry tonight!

Actually my wife isn't that mad about it. She just says yup if your SOFA you have to follow the rules. Man, I'd be pissed. Of course we are in New Mexico right now and enjoying this from a distance. We'll be in the mix in June though.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

I only watch NHK for the documentaries. Can't understand a word, but it looks nice.:D
Ah, I see. Can't understand a word, yet you somehow manage to watch a lot of Japanese news. Ohhhh, watch, but don't listen. Got it.

[DougP]

Ah, I see. Can't understand a word, yet you somehow manage to watch a lot of Japanese news. Ohhhh, watch, but don't listen. Got it.

Sort of like the commercials :thumbup:

[VWBOYAF1]

Ah, I see. Can't understand a word, yet you somehow manage to watch a lot of Japanese news. Ohhhh, watch, but don't listen. Got it.

Yes that is pretty much it. I also like the comedies. There is the naked guy I call Opopi because that seems like his catch phrase, the ugly mushroom hair guy, and the tuxedo wearing lounge singer. He always looks like he is worried his career is about to end. Good old fashion physical comedy. Everybody can enjoy that.

My mother-in-law has no AFN or Internet so I just watched Japanese TV for the three weeks I was I vacation. Not all the time, just while I ate breakfast or before I went to bed.

I guess there is going to be a lot of TV watching, X-box playing, and internet surfing this week. Don't worry folks, roll with the punches, it will be over soon. Let's all reflect.

[Asshat]

Yes that is pretty much it. I also like the comedies. There is the naked guy I call Opopi because that seems like his catch phrase, the ugly mushroom hair guy, and the tuxedo wearing lounge singer. He always looks like he is worried his career is about to end. Good old fashion physical comedy. Everybody can enjoy that.

My mother-in-law has no AFN or Internet so I just watched Japanese TV for the three weeks I was I vacation. Not all the time, just while I ate breakfast or before I went to bed.

I guess there is going to be a lot of TV watching, X-box playing, and internet surfing this week. Don't worry folks, roll with the punches, it will be over soon. Let's all reflect.

Don't worry about it. Lots of young white boys come here and want to play like they are Japanese. They attribute their knowledge of the language to their superior libido. Just ask them.

If they can not answer, they'll attempt redicule.

Good on ya, for keeping the open mind about another culture.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

My bet is that very few US military types watch Japanese news, or read it - let alone understand it. What little they do get is hand-picked, condensed, and translated by their own people. See any problems with that?

I watch a lot of Japanese news. I like when they hand-pick, condense, and translate ABC Nightly News.

The story about the stork with the fishing line on its beak was great. I like how it took a week to figure out how to help it.

Who's your favorite interpreter on NHK? That's news baby, oh yeah!

I only watch NHK for the documentaries. Can't understand a word, but it looks nice.:D

Ah, I see. Can't understand a word, yet you somehow manage to watch a lot of Japanese news. Ohhhh, watch, but don't listen. Got it.

Yes that is pretty much it. I also like the comedies. There is the naked guy I call Opopi because that seems like his catch phrase, the ugly mushroom hair guy, and the tuxedo wearing lounge singer. He always looks like he is worried his career is about to end. Good old fashion physical comedy. Everybody can enjoy that.

My mother-in-law has no AFN or Internet so I just watched Japanese TV for the three weeks I was I vacation. Not all the time, just while I ate breakfast or before I went to bed.

I guess there is going to be a lot of TV watching, X-box playing, and internet surfing this week. Don't worry folks, roll with the punches, it will be over soon. Let's all reflect.

Ladies & gentlemen, I give you your archetypical American soldier boy in Japan. Clueless and proud. :-|

[silviasichigo]

Don't worry about it. Lots of young white boys come here and want to play like they are Japanese. They attribute their knowledge of the language to their superior libido. Just ask them.

If they can not answer, they'll attempt redicule.

Good on ya, for keeping the open mind about another culture.

Damn stupid,cock suckin, white boy wannabe's man they suck LOL:w00t:

[socalheart]

I do my reflecting in the mirror. heh. I'm not all zen and stuff. It's definitely a movie/dvd weekend though. have to stock up on the popcorn and chips and ice cream and candy and soda and carrot sticks. naw, forget the carrot sticks. :p

[Asshat]

Damn stupid,cock suckin, white boy wannabe's man they suck LOL:w00t:

Yep. Can't trust em at all! What was that film...Porkeys or American Pie? Had that dude always wore a kimono (stateko if you ask me) and was always pretending to be the mystic oriental. (The guy who was doing the other kid's mom)

That's what these guys remind me of. Come to Japan, decide they have discovered something no one else has, immerse themselves in their idea of the culture and become instant experts on all Japanese.

[VWBOYAF1]

Don't worry about it. Lots of young white boys come here and want to play like they are Japanese. They attribute their knowledge of the language to their superior libido. Just ask them.

If they can not answer, they'll attempt redicule.

Good on ya, for keeping the open mind about another culture.

sure, ummm, thanx, i guess. I feel very self conscience right now and I don't know exactly what you are trying to say. I feel like I'm one of those white boys who want to play like they are japanese. I think that is better than going to japan and acting like you own the f-ing place. I just tried to keep a low profile, and when in rome, do as the romans.

[silviasichigo]

yeah I am sure guys like that pull the infamous crying game scene everyday after the brutal anal rapping they get from their spectacular job here "You know Cry in the shower rectum bleeding"

But I do know the one you are speaking of Stiffler's mom hehe

[silviasichigo]

sure, ummm, thanx, i guess. I feel very self conscience right now and I don't know exactly what you are trying to say. I feel like I'm one of those white boys who want to play like they are japanese. I think that is better than going to japan and acting like you own the f-ing place. I just tried to keep a low profile, and when in rome, do as the romans.

Oh don't worry we are speaking of another white boy... you are cool in my book as I am sure umi's :thumbup1: I am sure you have felt the heat from the Tool that matches the description that me and Umi speak of.....

[dk]

sure, ummm, thanx, i guess. I feel very self conscience right now and I don't know exactly what you are trying to say. I feel like I'm one of those white boys who want to play like they are japanese. I think that is better than going to japan and acting like you own the f-ing place. I just tried to keep a low profile, and when in rome, do as the romans.
Uminchu was making a jab at someone known for being a condescending prick on the forum.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Umin, is "redicule" anything like a "reticule"? What does a purse with a drawstring have to do with anything?

[silviasichigo]

see VW you are suffering from Stockholme you can break free from his Jeet kun do gay grip.

[Asshat]

yeah I am sure guys like that pull the infamous crying game scene everyday after the brutal anal rapping they get from their spectacular job here "You know Cry in the shower rectum bleeding"

But I do know the one you are speaking of Stiffler's mom hehe

Yeah! Stiffler's mom! That cracked me up. I only get anal raped at long meetings. I never cry about it, just bleed silently from my rectum.

[VWBOYAF1]

Ladies & gentlemen, I give you your archetypical American soldier boy in Japan. Clueless and proud. :-|

1. Not a soldier

2. Not in Japan

3. Not clueless. I only act that way to catch you off guard. I know a lot.

I've read your trolling remarks. Predictable and foul. Trying to rile us up. You are truly entertaining. I have to admit your comments are funny.

[Asshat]

I think that is better than going to japan and acting like you own the f-ing place. I just tried to keep a low profile, and when in rome, do as the romans.

That is what I was saying was a "good" thing. And dk was right, I was taking jabs at someone because he posts anti-XXX posts just to inflame.

[okisteve]

That is what I was saying was a "good" thing. And dk was right, I was taking jabs at someone because he posts anti-XXX posts just to inflame.

JU Forum getting more and more popular just proves that mud wrestling will always be a winner.

[silviasichigo]

I just wish that we could call the guy a cum crusted pVssy booger, or douche but I am ok with it, it is not right to call him a cum dumpster, Ham wallet, flesh rocket...man I am going to repent to a 6 pack of Mugi Shokunin

[Asshat]

JU Forum getting more and more popular just proves that mud wrestling will always be a winner.

Yeah, I was just talking to myself about that. I need to worry about my own mud puddle and leave well enough alone. Glass houses and all that.

I can be quite civil, but I see red when I see injustice. Heck, I even argue sides of issues I disagree with just to balance things out. In my own puddle of mud of course. lol.

At least eele can go out and have a ******* beer right now if he choses. I can't unless I want to risk my job. I suck!

[hankypanky]

umi, you talk to yourself also? thought only me and dk did that:D

[dk]

umi, you talk to yourself also? thought only me and dk did that:D
I talk to myself way too much.

"Why in the world does this not work? What in the HELL?!"

[Asshat]

umi, you talk to yourself also? thought only me and dk did that:D

Yeah, I have to. No one else likes me.

[dk]

Yeah, I have to. No one else likes me.
Awwww... :crying:

http://www.jasondunn.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/emo-lawn-cutting.gif

[silviasichigo]

Well fortunately for me I have to pay my electric bill so Family Mart is the eaisiest stop on my way home Family Mart here I come......

[okisteve]

I talk to myself way too much.

"Why in the world does this not work? What in the HELL?!"

"Oh, crap. I just had it in my hand!"

[hankypanky]

sit on it for 5 min

[dk]

"Oh, crap. I just had it in my hand!"
I've started calling my computer "dude"...

[Asshat]

I've started calling my computer "dude"...

Okay just spit beer! haha!!!!

[DougP]

These guys sure do have some chutzpah! Next thing you know they'll be rounding us up into train carts and shipping us off to working camps. Oy, a broch, these patches they make us wear are hideous. I'm so fermisht.

[okisteve]

Hey Doug, you must be undergoing Mid-Lockdown Traumatic Stress because you're channeling my grandma.

[dk]

These guys sure do have some chutzpah! Next thing you know they'll be rounding us up into train carts and shipping us off to working camps. Oy, a broch, these patches they make us wear are hideous. I'm so fermisht.
Feel free to walk over to my house. I won't tell. I am the almightyforumgo. It is a perfectly valid place of worship.

[DoctorP]

Feel free to walk over to my house. I won't tell. I am the almightyforumgo. It is a perfectly valid place of worship.

lol...can I come over?

[dk]

lol...can I come over?
Yessir. :D

Woah, it's at 197 now?!

[DoctorP]

Hold on...lemme' tell the wife I'm goin' to worship the almightyforumgo

[dk]

Hold on...lemme' tell the wife I'm goin' to worship the almightyforumgo
Service starts after 6:15pm. :D

[DoctorP]

Service starts after 6:15pm. :D

What's for dinner? :w00t:

[dk]

What's for dinner? :w00t:
Pako's for dinner!

[proudtobnotpc]

sorry didn't read the whole thread but any thoughts on how long this will last?

[P_chan]

sorry didn't read the whole thread but any thoughts on how long this will last?

Until further notice.

[RChan]

sorry didn't read the whole thread but any thoughts on how long this will last?

I've heard at least a month if not longer. Quite the serious international issue now.

[DoctorP]

Pako's for dinner!

DocP says "Turtle soup?" can Susuki kun come too?

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Referring to yourself in the third person makes me think of Jimmy, the guy from a Seinfeld episode that did the same thing.

http://www.seinfeldscripts.com/TheJimmy.htm

[DoctorP]

DocP made eele think!

[OkiMike]

edited for content

[VWBOYAF1]

This is the military. You have very limited rights, you have no japanese visa, you are here under the Status of Forces Agreement. And yes, when you do cross the coast of California you do lose all your American rights. Even with the lockdown in effect, life is much better then in Korea, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, Afganistan, and any other place in the AOR. Ever hear of General Order 1? Stop whinning and deal with it. It is borderline subversive to suggest a peaceful protest against the brass, and shows a complete lack of military bearing.

I think that chilling out at home for a couple days is better then permently damaging our relationship with an importent ally in the Pacific. We just need to get back to the drawing board now and start building our trust up again. Once the lockdown is over, people who don't usually go off base should go off base and find an interesting hobby to get involved with. Once Okinawan people develop friendships with Americans and vice versa people will understand each other better. The more Okinawans who have American friends, the better off we will be.

[OkiMike]

edited for content

[Ammoyankee]

1. You've mistaken me for a member of the military. If I'd wanted to be subject to the rules you follow regarding superiors/inferiors, I would've signed on after college. But as a contractor, I'm only here to perform a job. When those 8 hours are up, unless the military is wishing to pay me overtime, it doesn't get to dictate to me how to spend my time. I'm an American citizen with family in Okinawa and the mainland and go/do/say what I damn well please.



Are you SOFA? If so, you can go/do/say what the military damn well pleases. You could always quit I guess...

[DougP]

Are you SOFA? If so, you can go/do/say what the military damn well pleases. You could always quit I guess...

SOFA is an agreement between the US and Japan. Not some carrot on a stick that the military can lead you around on. You've mistaken an agreement between two countries for a written permission slip to institute martial law.:thumbdown:

[OkiMike]

edited for content

[socalheart]

gah! Martial law, not Marshall law... that's right. Why did I think it was like someone's name? Was probably thinking of Murphy's law... ha!
Anyhow, SOFA is an agreement between countries, but it's an agreement of what to do with the members of the guest coountry's citizens under that status. So, we're stuck with it as long as we're under its "protection." Like the commercial states, you can file a grievance. heh.

[DoctorP]

...or you were thinking of the "Marshall Plan".

The Marshall Plan (http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/marshallplan/)

[socalheart]

now I'm not THAT old. :p but it's possible. heh.
...or you were thinking of the "Marshall Plan".
The Marshall Plan (http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/marshallplan/)

[Asshat]

Sounds to me like the military isn't thinking their laws through quite enough. If you've got hundreds (thousands?) of contractors with/without local Japanese families, seems to me like its time to revise the law to protect their rights.

Run for Prez Mike. I'll vote for you!

For civilians under SOFA, the threat of loosing SOFA is valid and legal. Sure no one could fire a civilian employee, but pulling SOFA means issues with residency, licensing, etc. The other part of the stick was loss of base access which is also legal.

[VWBOYAF1]

You are not protected by the constitution of the United States when you are in a foriegn land. You are subject to their laws and the agreements made between the united states and japan.

General order 1 in it's current form are the guidlines that military people who live in the AOR (mideast) have to follow. Basically, no alcohol, sex, and a bunch of other requirements.

Now, if the military could not tell its people exactly where to be and when to be there, how could we fight a war? Basically, any liberty a military person has was earned at some point. Those liberties can be taken away at anytime and that includes going to get a soda from a vending machine. Air Force folks, like myself, forget that we do not work a 9-5 job, and sometimes our discipline and bearing are tested. This is one of the rare times you must actually act as though you are in the military. The marines are used to this, they know how to roll with the punches and accept that this is their profession. I'm always impressed with the bearing of a marine, even those who have served for many years.

As a civilian working for the military you are also subject to some of our regulations, it was all in your contract. Did you forget to read it? Like I said, you don't have a Japanese VISA, you are under the status of forces agreement, that means that the military can tell you exactly what you can and can't do, because they are responsible for you, and they pay you a lot. Stop thinking your special or just quit.

Even as a civilian you can be subsersive, I'm sure the military doesn't like you telling their folks that they don't really need to listen to the brass. If you become to much of a problem they will yank your SOFA status and ship you home.