Currently in Japan on a promotional visit – where he's appearing at a series of parties to celebrate 25 years since the release of monster hit Thriller – reclusive pop star Michael Jackson has made a surprise visit to a US army base in Tokyo. Jackson headed to Camp Zama on Monday to meet soldiers currently serving in the region and was presented with a framed certificate for his support by Garrison Commander Colonel Robert M. Waltemeyer. Jackson then awarded the soldier a special medal. "[You are] some of the most special people in the world," Jackson told the assembled troops. "It is because of you in here today, and others who so valiantly have given their lives to protect us, that we enjoy our freedom."