Repatriation
When Japan surrendered, Japanese military personnel were not referred to as "Prisoners Of War", (POW), since hostilities had been concluded-rather they were "Disarmed Military Personnel” (DMP's).
For months prior to the termination of the war all American agencies concerned continued to discuss the subject of repatriation in the Pacific and the decision was announced as part of the "Proclamation Defining Terms Of Surrender For Japan", established at the Potsdam Conference in Germany after the conclusion of hostilities in Europe. The pertinent section stated:,” The Japanese military forces, after being completely disarmed, shall be permitted to return to their homes with the opportunity to lead peaceful and productive lives".
The responsibilities of the U. S. Repatriation Units were to: (a) Guard, protect and gainfully employ Japanese subjects held awaiting repatriation on Guam, Saipan and Truk. (b) Protect U. S. and native personnel and property from any act of violence which may be instituted individually or collectively by Japanese subjects on Guam, Saipan and Truk. (c) Treat Japanese subjects on Guam, Saipan and Truk humanely and fairly while awaiting repatriation in accordance with the provisions of the Geneva Convention, the Potsdam Agreement and Field Manual 27 -10, (Rules of Land Warfare). (d) Take such action as may be deemed appropriate to prevent or quell subversive action of any sort by Japanese subjects on Guam, Saipan and Truk.