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[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the FY2015 Memorial Service for Members of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) Who Lost Their Lives on Duty held at the Ministry of Defense.

The Memorial Service was intended to pay tribute to the members of the SDF who lost their lives on duty. The ceremony has been held since 1957, hosted by the Minister of Defense. The Prime Minister offered a silent prayer, delivered a memorial address, and offered flowers.

The Prime Minister said in his memorial address,

“I would like to offer a memorial address at this, the FY2015 Memorial Service for Members of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) Who Lost Their Lives on Duty, for the souls of the SDF members who perished while doing their noble duty of protecting the existence of Japan.

This year, we are newly enshrining 27 souls.

Within their respective posts, all of them gave their utmost to their duties with a strong sense of responsibility and showed pride and a sense of duty in their actions as SDF personnel.

It is truly a tremendous loss for the SDF and Japan to have lost these proud and promising individuals.

There are no words to console the families of the deceased during this time of great sadness.

We will exert every possible effort to ensure that these kinds of unfortunate events never happen again.

The fallen did their duties magnificently, worked hard for their country, and have left behind a tremendous mark.

We shall never forget these brave figures or their names.

In front of the 1,878 souls who have been enshrined to date, I pledge that their precious sacrifices shall not be in vain – we will take up their wishes and resolutely protect the lives and peaceful daily lives of the Japanese people, no matter the circumstances.

I promise here today that we will do everything in our power to contribute to global peace and stability.

I once again pray for the repose of the souls of the fallen SDF members and for the peace of mind and everlasting good health of the bereaved family members.”