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"Did the Japanese soldiers enjoy slaughtering babies?"

Some did, other Japanese killed themselves in guilt.

During our Reagan revolution, I recall that much of Japan's younger generation was still reeling in revulsion to their older WW2 parents and grandparents. Many students refused to attend school ceremonies where a Japanese flag was present. Some school removed their own national flags under this protest. The Japanese friends I knew (some Okinawan), saw nationalism as a silly and dangerous cult. They aren't naive, though. Japan is a society that needs cops and a defense force.

It's right to review history and know the facts. But it's also prudent to look at today's situation and needs. Japan today is not Japan 2 and 3 generations ago. I wouldn't fuel resentment for today's very close Ally considering present challenges and ideological enemies just over the horizon (and in our backyard). I also have to wonder about those who propel divisive attacks to separate us from our Ally's. I hold it parallel to attacks on Wal-Mart. Some have touted a flag-waiving opportunity to oppose Chinese Communism. To me, that makes sense. But if I dig too deeply, I see a lot of unionize bullying and those that want to halt China making Christian products. Yes, look closely at some of those cute Jesus products being sold in Wal-Mart and note where they are made. Perhaps Sam Walton did want "some" products made in China after all. The Christian message is getting through. If the US does embargo Communist China, then we might just halt nonreligious products and let them continue to produce for Christian consumers.

Back to the subject, divisive attacks against our Japanese Ally only helps our present enemies and not our prosperous relationship with Japan.

well it is worth noting that the japanese have largely shed the old system and adopted the US constitution almost verbatim. Blaming today's japanese is akin to demanding repatriations for slavery. The people who were responsible for these crimes were defeated and punished. There is no point in punishing the dependents.

""They aren't naive, though. Japan is a society that needs cops and a defense force.""

Elaborate please...

""But if I dig too deeply, I see a lot of unionize bullying and those that want to halt China making Christian products. ""

elaborate please...

Your post was VERY VERY interesting! I would be so greatful if you could explain the Walmart-Chinese-Christian connection.

All societies need a police force. What makes Japan so different?