The 'Hands around Kadena' event drew an estimated 18,500 participants. During the hour-long protest against U.S. bases that started at 2 p.m., participants attempted three times to join hands for five minutes and encircle Kadena, which has a perimeter of 10.75 miles.
Officials say that they completed the circle on the third try.
Okinawa City Police officials estimate that 18,500 people participated in the event. There were a lot of people having their voices heard. Gen. James B. Smith, 18th Wing commander, during a press briefing given immediately after the demonstration. Ours is a nation that was born of debate, and ours is a military that is sworn to serve democracy. Protest and debate are part of that democracy.