[Vigilanteman]

A friend of mine was stated at both Yokota AB and Misawa AB. He told me the reception from the locals was like night and day between the two.

As you know, Yokota is close to a major city, so plenty of opportunities for the locals to find employment elsewhere. At Misawa, up in the rural NE of the country, not so much. The locals were far more friendly and receptive at Misawa as a result.

[voicereason]

I didn’t have a problem with any of the locals, but then again, I also never expected the locals to cater to me. Just acted like a visitor and all was well. Learned the language and customs and went for making the best of it.

I taught a few English speaking classes during the week, bartender at a local spot a few more, and sold cars to incoming airman; so yes, there were plenty of opportunities to earn money on the side. Three years of it and I was able to pay for 2 1/2 years of school when I got out and still partied hard.