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Navy Reservist Adds Key Skill to RIMPAC '06

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060730-03
Release Date: 7/30/2006 4:48:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Will Jones, RIMPAC Public Affairs Coalition Information Bureau

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- The month-long Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2006 multinational exercise in July was in part successful due to the special language translation services of U.S. Navy Sailors.

Navy Reservist Storekeeper 2nd Class Charles J. Todd, from Poulsbo, Wash., translated for members of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force.

“Understanding each other’s language is vital to the success of the exercise,” said Todd. “In order to have a strong working bond between coalition operating forces, it is imperative they are able to communicate effectively. I was able to provide that essential service during this year’s exercise.”

Though Todd admits he does not speak Japanese perfectly, his understanding of Japanese culture and love of the language enabled him to provide an essential link between officers and sailors of the U.S. and Japanese navies during this year’s RIMPAC exercise. Japan is one of seven Pacific Rim nations participating with the United States in this year’s naval exercises.

“Acting as an official translator for the exercise not only allowed me to assist as a communication link between two interacting navies, but gave me a great training opportunity to test my language listening and speaking skills,” Todd said.

Todd started learning Japanese early on during martial arts training as a youth, and he went on to improve his language skills in college. Later, his fascination with Japanese culture took him to Japan, where he taught English and learned even more of the subtleties and intricacies of the language.

Todd wants to expand his abilities as a translator for the U.S. Navy, and is looking forward to assisting again in the future. Todd said more Sailors should consider becoming fluent in a foreign language and comfortable interacting with personnel from other navies in order to increase their versatility and mission effectiveness.