State Partnership Program

Video by Daisuke Sato

JGSDF Members Host Training Demo

U.S. Army Garrison - Japan

Aug. 7, 2020 | 2:49

Narration:
Newly minted members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s 4th Engineer Group on Camp Zama recently held a public training demonstration for a crowd of observers. The event was held as part of the JGSDF’s bilateral engagement program with U.S. Army Japan.

Among those in attendance was U.S. Army Garrison Japan Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Norman.

Interview: CSM Billy Norman, U.S. Army Garrison Japan

Narration:
After completing their basic training, members assigned to the 4th Engineer Group go through an additional three months of unit-specific training to further hone their skills.

The rookie members of the unit demonstrated their proficiency in obstacle construction, during which they built a foothold using logs and ropes. They also showcased their skills in preliminary marksmanship and disassembling a Type-89 assault rifle.

Pfc. Rui Tamashiro, assigned to the 4th Engineer Group, had the opportunity to speak with Command Sgt. Maj. Norman after the demonstration. Tamashiro said he enjoyed the unique conversation he had with U.S. Army Garrison Japan’s senior enlisted leader.

Interview: PFC Rui Tamashiro, 4th Engineer Group, JGSDF
We use the cross-knot method when building a foothold. Command Sgt. Maj. Norman asked me why we use that particular method and asked how I learned to do it.

He is much bigger than me, so I was a little nervous to talk to him at first, but after my conversation with him, I could see that he is very nice.

Narration:
While having Command Sgt. Maj. Norman observe them may have been an encouragement to the young JGSDF members, the sergeant major said the event also allowed him to recall his memories of being a young Soldier, brand new to the Army.

Interview: CSM Billy Norman, U.S. Army Garrison Japan

Interview: PFC Rui Tamashiro, 4th Engineer Group, JGSDF
As a member of the JGSDF, I hope to stay positive when doing my job or taking on a challenge. That is my goal.

Narration:
Reporting for U.S. Army Garrison Japan, this is XXXXXXXX.