~I Want to Say 'Thank You' to the US Military 'Operation Tomodachi'~ (Spokesperson's Remarks)

The US military's 'Operation Tomodachi' conducted disaster relief activities on an unprecedented scale to support the Great East Japan Earthquake. Eiichi Satomura, Director of Public Relations, sent a message of 'Thank You' for the 'friendship and dedication to an ally' shown by the United States.

Thank You to 'Tomodachi'

Eiichi Satomura, Director of Public Relations, Happy Science Group

The Great East Japan Earthquake became the worst disaster in post-war history, with the death toll and missing persons approaching 30,000. In response to this unprecedented situation, under the guidance of President Ryuho Okawa, the Happy Science Group has been offering prayers for the safety and recovery of the disaster victims, conducting memorial services for the deceased, and continuously sending gasoline and essential supplies to the affected areas. Additionally, the Happiness Realization Party has been collecting donations, and over 50 million yen has been raised so far, which has begun to be donated to the affected areas.

In this earthquake, 136 countries and organizations offered support, and 39 international organizations were involved, but the US military's 'Operation Tomodachi' was overwhelming in both quality and quantity. Approximately 18,000 personnel from the four branches of the military—land, sea, air, and marines—participated, with 19 ships, including a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, and about 140 aircraft deployed. A wide range of activities were conducted, including the transportation of relief supplies, search for missing persons, construction of life infrastructure such as electricity, and removal of debris. Seeing this 'Operation Tomodachi' reaffirmed the importance of the Japan-US alliance.

However, it was unfortunate that initially there was little domestic media coverage of this 'Operation Tomodachi', and there was not much widespread gratitude towards the United States or a renewed recognition of the importance of the Japan-US alliance among the public. Of course, we should be grateful to all the countries that supported us, but is it appropriate to treat the United States as 'one of them'?

Considering the background of such reporting, it becomes apparent that the current ruling party, the Democratic Party, has not highly valued the Japan-US alliance. For example, during the execution of Operation Tomodachi, there were words of 'gratitude' from Defense Minister Kitazawa to the United States, but there were not many proactive words of gratitude to the United States or the US military from Foreign Minister Matsumoto or Prime Minister Kan. When US Secretary of State Clinton visited Japan in mid-April, the Prime Minister finally expressed polite words of gratitude, but it felt somewhat belated. Could it be considered mere speculation to think that the weak evaluation of the United States by the top of the administration is influencing the reporting?

Since this could potentially develop into a diplomatic issue, wise recognition is required. This is because in the United States, opinions such as 'Japan does not trust the United States' are being expressed by government officials and the media. If, in addition to this, the Japanese side's evaluation of 'Operation Tomodachi' is perceived as low by the United States, it could create a significant rift in Japan-US relations. I want to emphasize that the Prime Minister's distrust of the United States and dislike of the Japan-US alliance must never threaten the safety and peace of the people.

Here are some voices of gratitude to the US military from the disaster-affected areas.

・Male employee at Noda Village Office, Noda Village, Iwate Prefecture (60s)

・'The US military personnel came as volunteers during their daily duties. They actively cleared debris in dangerous areas with poor footing. All the villagers are grateful.'

Male company employee, Noda Village, Iwate Prefecture (18 years old)

・'They gave us American-made clothing, snacks, and toys for children. I am filled with gratitude.'

Male company employee, Noda Village, Iwate Prefecture (65 years old)

・'The US military personnel are diligently removing household items washed away by the tsunami. They have the strength to easily carry heavy refrigerators that would require two Japanese people, and they are truly reliable. I want to express my gratitude.'

Self-employed male, Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture (63 years old)

・'When the US military personnel remove debris, they carefully set aside photos and memorial tablets they find. Their attention to detail is so appreciated that I am at a loss for words.'

Fourth-grade girl, Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture (9 years old)

・'Our schoolyard was a mountain of debris, but the Americans cleaned it up so we can play now. They also gave us badges, stickers, and games. Thank you very much.'