The greeting, uttered heartily by recruits standing watch on each floor of the three-story brick barracks, was not quite military protocol.

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But otherU.S. and Japanese military sources said language, protocol and cultural barriers had proved more daunting than expected, especially for two close allies.

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"Prince Harry has been on a private holiday before he resumes his military duties, " said a palace official, declining to be named in line with protocol.

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