During the Anime NYCone of the largest manga and anime conventions in the United States, which took place from November 17 to 19, highlighted the unusual presence of stands belonging to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Army Marine Corps. This military incursion into an event known for its focus on manga and anime culture has left many attendees perplexed.
The Marine Corps explained its participation in the convention through a statement that read: “As a military partner, the United States Marine Corps invites you to discover what drives Marines. Stop by Booth #373 to compete in our Battle Dome and let’s talk about what it takes to become a Marine and what it means to fight and win like one. Maybe you have the perseverance, the will to win and the indomitable fighting spirit we are looking for. Let’s find out at Anime NYC 2023!“. Even a Misato Katsuragi cosplayer from Neon Genesis Evangelion was shown at their booth:
Judging by the statement and images of the booths, both the FBI and the Marine Corps attended the convention with the clear purpose of recruiting new members. This strategy may seem strange to many, especially considering the stereotype that anime fans do not usually show interest in physical jobs such as the military.
The presence of these government institutions at an event dedicated to otaku culture has generated surprise and some controversy among attendees, who wonder about the suitability of this recruitment strategy in such a specific environment. Although the convergence of seemingly opposing worlds has sparked debate, the FBI and Marines booths left an undeniable impression at Anime NYC 2023.
And of course, this did not go unnoticed on the forums in Japan:
- «I’d like to see what kind of guy would go to an anime convention just to enlist in the US Army.».
- «Were there any specific requirements? I would like to join the FBI».
- «In Japan there are also some people who join the Self-Defense Forces just because they saw it in an anime».
- «The world finally seems to be aligning».
- «So the US Army is so short on manpower that they’re now trying to recruit otakus?».
- «I want to be part of the FBI too! I want to scream and knock down doors to arrest many members of this forum!».
- «Mmm, if I’m not mistaken, the United States Army is usually present at any type of convention, it is not something unusual to see».
- «But isn’t the FBI an agency that only a certain elite enters?».
- «But the FBI focuses on investigations within the United States, I think only the CIA has an international presence».
Fountain: Yaraon!
