as we see in this next story, the sdf is hoping to win their trust. >> reporter: late at night a phoneall came into japan's self defense force based in naha requesting patient transport. personnel lift into action and in 15 minutes, the helicopter is ready for take off with two doctors on board. the services are essential to protect the lives of people on remote islands. nine years ago, kaori needed to do an emergency c-section without a moment to spare. her baby boy weighs 500 grams at birth. he would have been in danger without the transport. >> my son was born safely because of the people involved in the emergency air lift. >> reporter: the transport program began in 1972. some residents worried deployment of the self-defense force even for medical purposes may set the stage for potential use in another war. >> ichi was in the sdf when they started the service. >> translator: we were proud of our residents by helping okinawa by transporting patients. >> reporter: because of local opposition, the personnel would send to okinawa in a way that would avoid tension. >> on the day of my t