Quote Originally Posted by Splash! View Post
I make no attempt to hide my distaste for Obama as well as others who just talk and never act.

Yes there are lots of troops stationed at Japan and always have been. That doesn't mean they have contributed a great deal. Up until now, the Japanese have been pretty much left to their own devices. The US isn't supposed to be a just a friendly nation offering *some* help when it comes to Japan. Under treaty, they are supposed to be the most active participant in averting this crisis.

If its not the US, I hope the European nations do a bit more. Although it will take a bit longer for adequate support to get there all the way from Europe. Either ways, Japan really could use alot more help.
I see your from Canadia so I'll forgive you for not knowing how things work in the US of A. Obama is not a dictator-like PM like you have up there. He made promises yes, and has delivered on some of them (during the lame duck session in Congress no less). But he's fighting a resurgent GOP, in-fighting in his own party, impatient and short-sighted yahoos among voters who want instant answers and results, all while trying to fix the problems created by his predecessors but placed on his shoulders to resolve.

And the US troops stationed in Japan are helping out with humanitarian relief and search and rescue. I've always been an opponent of US bases and troops in Japan. But for this one type of disaster I'm very happy to eat my words and thank the gaijin soldiers for helping.

As others have said, Japan is an independent nation. They refuse help, if just for the foolish need to save face and appear ready and able to the rest of the world.