[Ryzorian]

I don't think you could call it an "occupation" so much anymore. It's more of an allied base in Japan. One should check and see how many joint excercises the US and Japanese militaries do. I think the Germans use an airbase here in the States, so it isn't unheard of. Was it an occupying force originally? sure, but we have had a stratigic alliance with Japan for decades now.

Most world threats are closer to Japan geographically than they are to the US, so logically, if the US is an ally, it would make sense to have at least a presence there. For me personally (being ex army), I consider it an obligation to defend allies with our blood..kinda what being an ally is about. I also think we made that commitment when they signed the treaty after WW2, so we should faithfully carry out that wich we pledged to do.

As to the rape issue, we should let the courts descide that. I will say that those found guilty of such behavior are a disgrace to the uniform and should be flogged..... I don't think I can comment much further on that and maintain my decorum, as the idea of dishonoring the flag they swore to serve, angers me greatly.