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CAMP MAKOMANAI, Japan. — Navigating a foreign country without knowing the language can be incredibly challenging. Simple, everyday tasks such as moving through an airport, ordering food or asking for directions quickly become insurmountable obstacles. For a military unit, the stakes drastically increase, as miscommunication in an unfamiliar country can compromise missions, hinder coordination with allies and even put lives at risk.
As a linguist, 2nd Lt. Fukase Tatsuya, 18th Regiment of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF), actively ensures the continual understanding between both his country and its allied partners. Fukase, a native Japanese speaker, served in the JGSDF studying English for 20 years.
He chose to learn English because he understood the importance of bilingual speakers within combined training missions and has worked alongside allied nations like Australia and the United States.
Currently, Fukase is participating in North Wind 25, an annual bilateral arctic training exercise between the U.S. and Japan. North Wind 25 reaffirms the U.S. commitment to the defense of Japan and the continued 60-year allyship between the two nations.
Fukase understands firsthand the importance of his role in an exercise like this and the critical impact of interpretation. More than just translating words, he values the human connection involved in dismantling language barriers.
“I try to know the person,” said Fukase. “The person's feeling. It's a connection.”
When interpreting, Fukase relies not only on his knowledge of grammar and diction but also on his interpersonal skills. He carefully observes mannerisms, tone, and speech patterns to adapt his approach and communicate in a way that resonates with those he is interpreting for.
Yoshiki Kobayashi, a linguist from the Language Support Branch, U.S. Army Japan, reaffirms Fukase’s sentiments regarding interpretation.
“As a linguist, I’ve found that building rapport with the people I’m interpreting for is just as important as linguistic accuracy,” said Kobayashi. “It helps ensure that meaning is conveyed in a way that resonates. A phrase can carry different connotations depending on how it’s said. Establishing trust allows me to pick up on underlying emotions and cultural nuances.”
By taking the time to understand the perspective of others, or as Fukase says, “a person’s thinking,” interpreters can ensure that their translations are not just accurate, but also respectful and culturally appropriate.
From Fukase’s many years of studying the English language, he found a favorite word. Bridge.
“I would like to be like a bridge for others,” said Fukase. “That is my favorite thing from English.”
Language is deeply connected to culture, emotions, and context. Without understanding the background, values, and experiences of those you are interpreting for, important nuances are easily lost. Linguists are the unsung heroes of communication, reminding us that with patience, dedication, and empathy, we can do more than just exchange words—we can truly connect.
| Date Taken: | 02.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 02.09.2025 00:57 |
| Story ID: | 490021 |
| Location: | HOKKAIDO, JP |
| Web Views: | 44 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Building Bridges: Linguists support North Wind 25, by SSG Kimberley Glazier, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
