Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, 41st Enhanced Infantry Brigade, Oregon Army National Guard, were given the opportunity to practice mobilization and learn about a whole different culture while participating in the annual bilateral U.S.-Japan cold weather training exercise NORTHWIND 96.

The soldiers arrived at Camp Obihiro, Japan, 18 February 1996, for their annual training mission. The first few days were spent unloading equipment and arranging sleeping areas as the soldiers mingled with their Japanese counterparts. The soldiers stayed in Japanese billeting.

The Japanese soldiers held a welcome party for the American soldiers. Staff Sgt. John Scelson, described the party as "culturally exhilarating and a good opportunity to experience different food."

Different weapons were put on display by both countries' forces, and short demonstrations given; in the correct handling of these weapons. The next few days were spent preparing to move to Shikaribetsu Training Area north of Camp Obihiro for the field training exercise.

The U.S. soldiers spent nine days at Shikaribetsu working with their Japanese counterparts to learn to perform duties in a cold weather environment. Sgt. Scott Woods, the training noncommissioned officer, said it was interesting working directly with the Japanese Tactical Operations Center. He was able to observe how the Japanese organize things and compare operational methods. The language difference was a very challenging experience for all. Whether training, eating or showering, soldiers often resorted to using hand signals to communicate better with their counterparts.

Interpreters were brought from various U.S. National Guard units augmented by native Japanese working for U.S. Forces, Japan. For example, Maki Hirano, an information and editorial specialist working for the U.S. in Japan, doubled as an interpreter for the Public Affairs Office. She helped make communication flow smoothly between the Americans and their Japanese counterparts.

"The Japanese don't seem to train very differently," said Spec. Bill Malpass, an M60 machine gunner. "However, they were able to move quicker and faster than we were because they were used to the skis and snow shoes."

Capt. Terry Larkin, battalion chaplain, said, "Out of 11 annual training missions, the soldiers seem to have enjoyed this one the most. I don't think we have ever gone anywhere for training where there has been such a great reception for the soldiers."

To get out of the cold and warm up a little bit, soldiers were given the chance to witness Japanese culture first hand. Soldiers were invited to spend the evening at local Japanese families' homes. While at these homes, they were able to sample many different Japanese foods prepared by their host families.

Staff Sgt. Scelson said, he was "amazed at how the Japanese were able to do so much with such a little space in their homes." The Japanese seemed eager to learn and understand English. Sgt. Woods said, "The home visit was excellent. I was impressed by their graciousness, and they were very open." Spec. Malpass was surprised that the floors were heated at his host's home. When the U.S. soldiers left these homes, they left carrying beautiful gifts and memories to share with their own family and friends.

NORTHWIND 96 has been a learning experience for the U.S. soldiers, who successfully tested their ability to deploy and operate in the cold weather environment of Japan, and a cultural experience to be remembered.