With the ending, at least for now, of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force refueling operation for ships supporting operations in Afghanistan, I can only give a personal "Bravo Zulu" to my shipmates who manned the AOEs and destroyers involved in these missions. All of them showed consummate seamanship in each and every refueling evolution.
I hope Japan will look on their efforts and the sacrifices of their families and friends with great pride as they upheld the traditions of the MSDF. I hope also that the rest of the world appreciates their tireless efforts since November 2001.
paul h. sayles
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.