There can be no doubt that Japan has its share of problems, chief among them being their stubborn refusal to own up to their horrendous record of brutal atrocities during the Second World War. Since that time, however, Japan has been a trusted Cold War and post-Cold War ally. Japan has been a model democracy in the region and a champion of the free enterprise system. Though they could be more receptive to completely opening their domestic economy to foreign trade. Given the strength of the Japanese-American relationship it comes as no surprise that anger is growing in Japan over the continued presence of 50,000 US servicemen and women stationed in that country, particularly on the island of Okinawa.

Once again an American has been sentenced to prison for raping a Japanese woman. Dag A Thompson was sentenced to nine years in prison for raping two Japanese women. Frankly, nine years is too generous for such a person. Japan’s anger is understandable and generally unfathomable to ordinary Americans.... Not only have there been several high profile assaults and rapes committed by Americans in Japan, but Japan is home to over 50,000 US servicemen and women, such an indignity has not been visited on the US since the early 19th century, when British forces remained in US territory well after the American Revolution and what was the result? The War of 1812.

Those Americans who violate the laws and customs of a nation in which they are a guest should be subject to those laws. Those who represent the United States should be especially mindful of the sensitivities of a local population. There simply is no excuse for the ongoing problem of sexual assaults perpetrated by perverted and depraved American soldiers. Such men should be hastily drummed out of the service. Unfortunately the Constitution does not allow such embarrassments to be deprived of their citizenship.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4840082.stm