Soichiro Kuwahara is a seasoned veteran of the JSDF's 3rd Recon Team, respected as a reliable second-in-command and fondly called "Oyassan" by his squadmates. Known for his extensive military experience, approachable demeanor, and pop culture quirks, he balances strict leadership with surprising humor.
Soichiro Kuwahara is a 50-year-old man.
He exudes the mature presence and authority expected of a veteran NCO.
His age and long-standing service hint at a sturdy build and weathered features, fitting of someone nicknamed "Oyassan" by his team.
Kuwahara is dependable, practical, and level-headed, often stepping in as acting commander when Yōji Itami is absent.
Though disciplined and once a tough drill sergeant—he earned the nickname "demon sergeant" from Takeo Kurata—he's not an inflexible stickler.
He can let his guard down: he gets flustered when explaining things to Lelei La Lalena, and his sense of humor shines through his witty pop culture references.
He cares deeply for civilians and subordinates, willing to take responsibility when others hesitate.
Kuwahara holds the rank of Sergeant Major (陸曹長) and is a distinguished member of the 3rd Recon Team.
He has a long service history within the JSDF, including a tenure as a drill instructor, which shaped many younger soldiers.
Later in his life, after returning to Japan, he retired at the mandatory age and now works in a security company while enjoying time with his grandchildren.
Kuwahara’s greatest strengths lie in his extensive combat and leadership experience, especially in high-pressure situations.
He can make difficult judgment calls, delegate effectively, and keep morale high even in strange worlds.
His familiarity with training protocols and dealing with recruits makes him a pillar for his team.
Kuwahara is admired within the Recon Team and viewed as a reliable "uncle" figure.
He has a mentor-mentee relationship with Takeo Kurata, who still views him with a mix of fear and respect due to their past as instructor and student.
He gets along professionally with Yōji Itami but sometimes shows the same quirky tendencies.
He attempts to act as an adult authority to Rory Mercury but is humorously put in his place due to her centuries-old age.
Kuwahara is from the generation that immediately links the word “dragon” to Bruce Lee, and upon seeing a fire dragon, compared it to "King Ghidorah with only one head."
He lightens tense moments by referencing classic monster movies, earning playful criticism from younger teammates for being old-fashioned.
Despite his hard exterior as an instructor, he can get dejected when playfully teased, especially by Rory Mercury calling him "boy."
"Fighting monsters is a JSDF tradition!"
Role in the Recon Team
Soichiro Kuwahara serves as the vice-commander and backbone of the 3rd Recon Team, often assuming command in Yōji Itami's absence.
His years of experience and practical sense earn him deep trust from his teammates.
Encounter with the Fire Dragon
When the team encounters the colossal fire dragon, Kuwahara comments with a pop culture reference, calling it "King Ghidorah with only one head," which entertains and embarrasses those around him.
During battle, he remarks that fighting monsters is "the tradition of the JSDF," injecting levity into dangerous situations.
The Closed Gate Turmoil
During the turmoil in Alnus caused by Zorzal's army unleashing chaos, Kuwahara stands out for prioritizing civilians' and refugees' safety.
When superiors hesitate to engage, he persuades them by vowing to take personal responsibility for the outcome.
At the closure of the Gate, Kuwahara returns to Japan with the wounded.
After the Gate Closes
Four years later, Kuwahara retires from military service due to age.
He transitions to civilian life, working at a security company while also caring for his grandchildren.
Voice Actor: Yamamoto Kanpei.
He is an iconic example of "the experienced old-timer," unfazed by chaos but not without a soft, endearing side.
His blend of stern leadership, caring nature, and unexpected humor remains a stabilizing force for his team regardless of the world they find themselves in.
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