Michael Jackson, visiting Japan for
a series of fan events including a $US3,400 dollar-a-plate VIP
dinner, has taken time out to greet US troops in a brief appearance
at an army camp.
The 48-year-old 'King of Pop' appeared for about 10 minutes before
an estimated 1,300 troops and their families at a fitness centre at
Camp Zama in Tokyo's western suburbs, an eyewitness said. But he
did not perform.
The crowd erupted into screams and cheers as soon as Jackson came
onto a roped-off stage at the gym and was introduced by base
commander Colonel Robert Waltemeyer.
Jackson gave a message of thanks from a prepared statement, calling
the troops "some of the most special people in the world" who have
given their lives to protect freedoms.
"Then he walked around the area in a big loop, waving and blowing
kisses at fans as he went along. Afterward, they ushered him away
and the place emptied out," the eyewitness said.
The event was open to all US military personnel, their families and
guests. But it was closed to general media.
"He just wants to let them know 'America supports you' and so does
he," Major Martha Brooks, a US Army Japan spokeswoman, told the US
military daily Stars and Stripes before the event.
The crowd gathered about two hours before Jackson's arrival.
Organisers played his music videos and held a trivia contest and
dance imitation contest ahead of his appearance, the eyewitness
said.
Jackson arrived in Japan last Sunday (local time) and dispensed
hugs and handshakes to more than 300 well-heeled Japanese fans who
spent 400,000 yen ($4,331) a ticket for an exclusive dinner and a
snapshot with the music legend on Thursday (local time).
On Friday (local time), he also appeared at a less expensive party
with more than 1,000 fans at a night club.
He is reported to be suffering serious financial problems as he
struggles to rebuild his career following his sensational
trial.
Jackson was acquitted in 2005 of child molestation charges and fled
his Neverland ranch in California.
He has since spent much of his time in seclusion in Bahrain.
He last visited Tokyo in May 2006 to receive a "Legends Award" at
MTV Japan's Video Music Awards and to visit orphanages.