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On November 8, 2017, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the Japan Self-Defense Forces anniversary and Prime Minister's commendation ceremony held at the Prime Minister's Office.

The Prime Minister said in his address,
 
“I would like to express my sincere congratulations to the unit commanders selected from among the Self-Defense Force (SDF) commanders across the country to receive this prestigious special award.

The SDF works tirelessly for the Japanese people. It diligently fulfills its duties with steadfast devotion at the risk of putting themselves in danger, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. SDF personnel are indeed the unsung heroes of Japan.

The efforts of everyone being recognized here today are indispensable to the SDF’s fulfillment of its duties. It would not be an overstatement to say that you are the true backbone that sustains the efforts of this country’s unsung heroes.

Your units may not have received direct words of praise or gratitude from the people of Japan. Even so, you have diligently undertaken your duties and made every effort to fulfill the mandate given to you by the people, with a strong sense of mission and responsibility. I am proud of you.

There is no doubt that the lives and peaceful livelihoods of the people of Japan are protected thanks to your selfless efforts.

As the Commander-in-Chief of the SDF, and as the Prime Minister representing the Government, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude and respect to each and every person who has served as a member of the SDF throughout its history.

I also would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation to all of the family members of the SDF personnel, who are also supporting the personnel.

The Japanese people who trust and rely on you stand behind you.

I have high expectations that you will take the opportunity of this special award to aim for even greater heights by having confidence and taking pride in yourselves.”