An Air Self-Defense Force officer in his 40s says he is happy to be chosen as a candidate for the planned mission to help rebuild Iraq.
The senior officer said that since 1992, when legislation was enacted allowing the Self-Defense Forces to be sent on peacekeeping operations, he has wanted to do his part.
"I realize we have an important duty here in Japan to defend the country," he said. "But when you work overseas, you have the feeling that you have Japan on your shoulder. I like that."