The recent flood of U.S. apologies to Japan for the Feb. 9 collision between a U.S. Navy submarine and a Japanese fishing vessel has only done so much to calm the grieving nation and families of the nine victims aboard the vessel.

That's understandable, especially considering the disclosure that civilians were in the sub's control room at the time of the collision, and that the crew person plotting radar readings was distracted by their presence, according to an Associated Press report. As investigations continue into the details surrounding the tragedy, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld says he will order a moratorium — possibly by the end of the week — on allowing civilians at the controls of any military ship, aircraft or vehicle.

Although it is unfortunate that the moratorium is in the works only after this deadly collision, it a step in the right direction for U.S. representatives who want to express their sincere apologies and remorse. And it's a logical move on Rumsfeld's part. Civilians obviously are not trained to act in the same manner as crewmembers in a control room. Even when told by professionals on how to conduct themselves aboard military equipment, their very presence could hinder the crewmembers' sense of immediate dangers.

Civilians' natural fascination and possible desire to operate some simple controls even under supervision are clear distractions for the commander and other crewmembers. Additionally, small children, no matter how well-behaved, may understandably want to be a part of the action. Even though it may appear harmless for an adult or even child to operate controls under supervision, even with radar and similar equipment to detect nearby objects, they are not guarantees that a professionally trained crewmember may not be distracted — as evidenced by the recent collision. Good relations between the United States and with Japan are vital to ensure stability and security in the Asian Pacific region. There is already some friction between the two allies concerning issues such as trade and military issues. Therefore, we should do all that we can to make up for this recent preventable incident that has undoubtedly contributed to the tension.