Quote:
Originally posted by dougiebarder
Just out of interest, how are Japanese reenactors treated in the US? I've only seen a couple here in the UK, and they are not very popular amongst many (paticularly elderly, and/or military personel).
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They were very well treated. In fact, I was surprised how well they were treated in light of the fact that the IJA were just as bloodthirsty a bunch of murderers as the SS. As a Canadian, I'll never forget how our boys were treated after the fall of Hong Kong. But, I guess it's in everyone's culture to be a good host to guests, whether in your home or your country. I served alongside the Japanese Contingent as part of UNDOF and at first I was a little stand-offish to the Japanese, but when my business took me into their HQ I was soon won over by their graciousness, and having no personal grudge against them, I soon became very good friends with many of them.
There is a tradition of genteelness in the South, something which I have experienced many times. I don't think one truly knows America until you have lived in the South for a while. The Japanese reenactors got to experience this first hand.
I think, however, the warrior spirit and code of Bushido lurks very near to a Japanese soldier's spirit. The Japanese at Fredericksburg were very friendly and open at the reception but when they donned their uniforms and prepared for the battle, their demeanor markedly changed. They became quiet and very intense as they "got into character" It was an interesting transformation. I've included a pic of all the Japanese reenactors at this event.
CHIMO!