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IT'S SAID that the Japanese are short because of their habit of squatting on the floor. Such practice was even common in schoolrooms of the past. But today the youngsters in school and elsewhere are seated on chairs and benches, and the new generation of Japanese is growing taller.

A mere vigorous schedule of outdoor and indoor games is also developing healthier, stronger, and taller bodies. Judo is the famed sport of Japan. And the serviceman is stunned (figuratively, when he watches; literally, when he participates) by the skill with which the small, harmless-looking people go at the game.

The American six-feet or taller virtually assumes gigantic proportions in a crowd of Japanese. Even the serviceman of average height can look over most of the Japanese heads. 

Back in America, though, the picture changes.

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