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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

SDF troops hold parade in Izumo

Residents of Izumo City in the western Japanese prefecture of Shimane were frightened on October 2 by 63 large military vehicles rolling in from the Ground Self-Defense Force Izumo Garrison. The military parade also included 170 troops and two helicopters.

The public affairs of the SDF Izumo Garrison had announced that the GSDF planned to celebrate the start of the new Izumo City (March 2005) following the merger of six municipalities by holding a parade in hopes to help residents better understand the garrison's capabilites.

The Japanese Communist Party Izumo City Committee had requested Shimane Governor Sumida Nobuyoshi to cancel the military parade.

On the same day, in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, about 200 troops of the GSDF Matsuyama Garrison held a march, calling it a disaster drill.

It was held as part of a series of events to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the GSDF Matsuyama Garrison.

Local chapters of the Peace Committee, the New Japan Women's Association, and the JCP held a joint protest on the streets, holding a banner that read, "Stop the military parade!" -- Akahata, October 3, 2005