Memories of Okinawa

I forgot to write about the trip we made to Taiwan in September or October of 1979.  When we landed in Japan at Narita airport, we were stamped into the country as tourists.  As tourists we were not allowed to stay in country for more than 6 months or so.  Dad made many trips to Kadena as well as to the consulate’s office.  As it turned out, the entire family would have to leave the country and return to be properly stamped in as military inhabitants, similar to the US work visa.

Dad’s company bought us all tickets to Taiwan.  We went to the Okinawa Airport and flew out and a couple hors later we arrived at the Chiang Kai Chek airport in Taiwan.  We were stamped into Taiwan as tourists and went to this huge hotel to spend the night.  On the way to the hotel we were amazed at the number of bicycles traveling the highways.  There were bridges as well as highways made specifically for bicycles also.  There were lovers hanging all over each other and the basic feel of Taiwan was far different than Okinawa.

We went to this shopping area and picked out some Jade pieces and bought some Marble pieces and some other little odds and ends.  We went back to the hotel and of course had to dine on Taiwanese food while we were there.  The next day we went to see a few sites and went back to the Airport.

Somehow, we were able to get all the way to the gate without a boarding pass (The whole family).  The Taiwanese police got more than a little excited.  We were all hauled in and questioned in this little indescript police room in the airport.  The police were carrying uzi’s and this was definitely intimidating to all of us.  The man in charge came in the little room and promised my Dad that we would make our plane, they were just really concerned about how we were able to circumvent several layers of security.  Dad answered all of their questions, he really looked concerned the entire time, and we knew this was really serious.

As promised, our plane was held at the gate until we boarded.  The plane was very late taking off that day and we were the last ones in, so I know folks knew we were the problem.  Dad was very relieved when the plane went airborne and had himself several drinks on the way back to Okinawa, I think he deserved it.  When we got back we were properly stamped into the country.  Dad’s friends went to Taiwan several times while we were there, but, Dad never even considered it.  Mom went with her friends once and Dad stayed in Okinawa.  I think that he really got scared that day.

I know that I was scared to death, it’s not everyday you are detained in a foreign country.  This was my first time being detained in a foreign country, but, it would not be my last.