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Well I'm not sure. Certainly, I do not personally agree with continuing to blame a whole people for crimes perpetrated by their forebears. Whilst there is undoubtedly some 'generational guilt' there is also unfortunately, as far as the Japanese go, a certain 'generational ignorance' that should never have been allowed to occur. Why is it that most Germans are aware of Nazi atrocities, but that very few Japanese know of Japanese atrocities? It is not about punishing the descendants of those who perpetrated the crimes...it is about telling the truth and remembering those who sufferred.
Are veterans the only ones who possess the right to forgive? Perhaps someone should ask the fathers/mothers/sons/daughters/brothers/sisters/ wives of those who died at places such as Parit Sulong how they feel about things?
Rgds
Tim
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In memory of the service of my relatives:
75429 LAC Eric R E Berthelsen, 8 & 40 Squadrons, RAAF.
QX11125 PTE Donald A Smart, 2/25th Battalion, AIF.
123786 CPL George Smart, 6 Postal Unit, RAAF. .
94064 SGT Melba P Berthelsen, 3 & 7 Stores Depots, WAAAF.
100498 CPL Mona O Berthelsen, 3 & 7 Stores Depots, WAAAF.
QX30327 PTE Cavell B Berthelsen, 101 Convalescent Depot, AMF.
QX27130 PTE Norman F Zeller, 62nd Battalion & 2/15th Battalion, AIF.
Q69316 WO1 Harold J Tesch, 1 Australian Ships Staff, AIF. Formerly RSM 41st Battalion 1st AIF.
Q226443 LT George A Clyne, 8th Battalion, VDC.
Q213224 PTE Neil C Smart, 13th Battalion, VDC. |