File:Colonel Yasuji Kitamura in Kuwait.jpg

English: 5 years have passed since the JASDF advance team was dispatched under the Special Measures Law for Humanitarian and Reconstruction Assistance in Iraq which was enacted in July 2003. More than 3,500 JASDF members have safely conducted our mission with sweat and tears. We will never forget the great support that we received from everyone in Japan.

　Recently, it was decided that the 16th deployment of the JASDF to Kuwait would be the “final runner”and so with the baton in our hands, we are likely to see the goal tape very soon. However we must still complete this run. Our goal is to complete our mission safely and return to our Japan and to our families without any accidents. And so, we must not forget our goal or become flat footed along the way.

　The Iraq Reconstruction Support Airlift Wing will carry out our mission to the end without change of pace. We will accomplish our mission alongside the other countries not only for the reconstruction of Iraq but also for the security of the Middle East. We strong believe and have no doubt that our mission will benefit Japan in the future. On behalf of Japan, and with pride and sincerity in the Bushido Spirit, we will continue our mission. This is our legacy.