The article highlights the tragic losses experienced by civil service commissioners, who prioritize helping vulnerable individuals during disasters. In the Great East Japan Earthquake, many of them perished while trying to assist the elderly and disabled in their communities. The story centers around Takashi Arisaka, a 75-year-old civil service commissioner from Ishinomaki City, who has devoted 24 years to his role. In his account, he reveals the challenges faced during the disaster, as he was in Sendai when the earthquake struck but rushed back to his devastated home neighborhood to provide aid.

Takashi Arisaka shares the harrowing experience of his community, particularly the loss of family members and neighbors in the tsunami. He describes how, at the time, there was a system in place in Ishinomaki City for civil service commissioners to help identify those needing assistance during evacuations. This foresight in planning allowed some level of coordination amidst the chaos, providing a framework for what is now known as the 'individual evacuation plan'. Arisaka reflects on the conflict he feels - the desire to help familiar faces in need while grappling with the reality of the dangers involved in such efforts during a disaster.

The article sheds light on the emotional toll on those who serve in civil service roles and their dedication to their communities, illustrating a deep moral dilemma faced by many in such critical situations. It underscores the profound commitment of civil service commissioners, who, even at the risk of their own lives, sought to protect others during one of Japan's deadliest natural disasters.