Japanese troops celebrate end of Iraq mission

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

BY KOJI KASAHARAAssociated Press Writer ASAKA, Japan -

The first Japanese troops deployed to a combat zone since World War II marked the end of their mission Saturday by celebrating the return of the army flag that flew over them for more than two years in Iraq.

About 500 troops who recently returned from the humanitarian mission attended the ceremony at the Ground Self-Defense Forces Asaka training grounds just north of Tokyo. The last batch of Japanese troops returned home Tuesday.

“The troops did an admirable job in the most difficult of conditions,” Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi told a crowd that included about 1,000 well-wishers. “This mission will remain in the memories of both the Japanese and Iraqi people.”

Col. Toshihiro Yamanaka carefully handed over the pale blue flag to Defense Minister Fukushiro Nukaga. “I am relieved to have brought the flag back safely,” he said.

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