re: #192 bolivar

Ford, I realize to get a pound of flesh is not possible but dammit, they took the life out of so many of these guys. Some carried terrible baggage the rest of their lives (and did so without complaint). These men and women were the REAL HEROES and deserve better than to be a footnote in some report or squirreled away in an archive. The Japs did terrible things - many of which are only now beginning to come out.

No, sadly the Japanese military did NOT pay for their terrible deeds - nor could they ever do so in my estimation. This would come from the emperor on down - they all share in the guilt. We let them off easy and you know it. They never acknowleged their misdeeds nor has a real official apology been offered as far as I know (not that it would be genuine or even acceptable at this late date). They save face this way - we should have smacked that face repeatedly. I just cannot let it go - we were not the only ones to benefit from their largesse. China paid an awful price for what - existing nearby? Just cannot forgive and forget - to this day I cannot nor will I ever own a Japanese car. Some things just cut too deep.

I’m quoting you in full - becaus this is exactly how so many of our Brithish POWs see it.
It is very interesting - the British WWII veterans have now no qualms to meet and speak with their former German enemies. But not one will go to speak to the Japanese vets.
Says it all …