The Long Journey of Shozo Owikawa

**drago1983** · 03-04-2010, 06:05 PM

Moving story...
Good job Bob!

Davide

**BOB COLEMAN** · 03-04-2010, 10:50 PM

by Matt L

Thanks for relaying this story Bob- it was very interesting to read; I suppose one should focus on the good people involved and the positive outcomes and not the ineptitude and apathy from so many quarters that's rather disturbing. It's indeed very good that the the right side won out. I can't help but wonder though just why this colleague of your friend would bring back a box of cremated remains from the war...

Matt-
To clarify, the individual who brought the remains back was the father of my friend's colleague. At least his wife did not throw the remains in to the trash.
It was a different time in 1945. Both sides in the Pacific were brainwashed in to looking at the enemy as inferior and subhuman. Racism was also a large part of the problem. Unfortunately, I have seen sacks full of gold teeth taken by Allied soldiers from the mouths of the dying or the dead enemy. War is a horrible event that warps the humanity that most of us have. For some, it was an excuse for bad behavior.

**Larry C** · 08-05-2012, 05:47 PM

Great contribution Bob and it was good that you stood your ground as who knows what would of happened to the remains. Good job Larry

**Alan M** · 08-05-2012, 06:14 PM

It`s a breath of fresh air to read a story of respect for another human being , whatever the circumstances ! Thanks Bob .

**Mark K** · 01-11-2014, 04:04 PM

Thanks for bringing this post back up Bob it just reassures my feelings that there are still honorable people left out there my hats off to you and your wife for your efforts in getting this vet back home and giving closure to the family he can now rest in piece.

Regards Mark K

**harryamb2** · 01-11-2014, 09:27 PM

deeply touched.

**Anzel** · 01-11-2014, 09:37 PM

What a great story and I am happy the government officials in Japan followed through for the soldiers family. Bob your role was certainly a noble one!