Rumored end of base restrictions on Okinawa denied by Marine officials

[unhappycamper]

Protesters shout slogans Tuesday during a rally in Okinawa where a U.S. Marine allegedly raped a 14-year-old Japanese girl. The U.S. military denies rumors that tight restrictions on all personnel will end Monday.


Rumored end of base restrictions on Okinawa denied by Marine officials
By David Allen, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Saturday, February 23, 2008

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Marine officials Thursday shot down rumors that a base restriction for all military-sponsored Americans on the island would end Monday.

“The period of reflection will last for an indefinite period of time,” a press release issued by Marine Corps Bases Japan stated. “At this time, we cannot speculate on future changes to the order.”

The restriction was imposed Tuesday by Marine Lt. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer in his capacity as the Okinawa Area Coordinator, the highest-ranking U.S. officer on Okinawa. It affects all military personnel, dependents and Defense Department civilians on Okinawa and on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and Camp Fuji in mainland Japan.

Under the order they are restricted to their bases, except for travel to their off-base homes, place of duty or employment, worship, education, or medical or dental treatment. All other activity outside the bases, such as shopping or frequenting off-base restaurants and clubs, is prohibited.

Local restaurants were particularly hard-hit.


Rest of article at: http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=52691



uhc comment: Where do these guys come up with these terms?? --> "The period of reflection"