Around 500 personnel took part in the commemorative ceremony, November 30 in Naha (©Sankei by Naoki Otake).
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The 15th Brigade of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces (GSDF), scheduled to be upgraded to a full division in FY2026, celebrated its 15th anniversary on November 30, together with the 53rd anniversary of the Naha Garrison. At the Naha installation, about 500 personnel and nearly 100 armored vehicles took part in a public parade that drew more than 4,000 spectators.
Speaking to the crowd, Brigade Commander Major General Hideo Izumi, responsible for the defense of Japan's southwest region, issued a warning. He noted that "States that do not share universal values or the political and economic systems grounded in them are expanding their influence in today's international community." Izumi emphasized that national defense remains the GSDF's "first and most important mission," pledging to "steadily advance preparations" for the unit's transition to division status.
Messages of Gratitude and Resolve
Okinawa Vice Governor Takekuni Ikeda delivered a congratulatory message on behalf of Governor Denny Tamaki. Ikeda expressed gratitude to the unit, noting, "You have made tremendous contributions not only to the defense of our nation, but also to safeguarding the lives and property of Okinawa's residents."
Deputy Defense Minister Masahisa Miyazaki's comments emphasized that "Strengthening defense capabilities in the southwest region is an urgent task amid the most severe and complex security environment of the postwar era."
Addressing the troops directly, he added, "People are the core of our defense strength. Each of you here is the very strength that protects this country. We are proud of you, who dedicate themselves to their missions and training under such demanding conditions."
After the parade, spectators took in aerial demonstrations by UH-60JA helicopters and hoist training as troops rappelled from a CH-47 Chinook. Acrobatic riding displays by motorcycle units followed, captivating the crowd.
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Author: Naoki Otake, The Sankei Shimbun
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