The following link will tell you why in Japan, Akitas are revered for their courage.  The reputation of the breed dates back to the story of Hatchi-ko in the 1930s; the inherent loyalty and love from this breed to their family, runs in the veins of every Akita on earth.  Regardless of the treatment inflicted on them by humans, both good and bad, they will die for you without a moment of hesitation.  Nikki did just that for her family:

              Nikki

Chili was another Akita who braved a fire to save her family but she lived and found herself in an animal shelter! Chili was rescued by the great folks who save our breed from euthanasia--the dedicated Akita Rescue groups.  Chili was saved and re-homed;
her story can be read here:

          http://www.akitarescuewny.com/Chille/chillie.htm

Samuri, blind since birth, used his extraordinary hearing to save the life of a neighbor.

            Samuri

As time allows, I will share more stories with you about the Akita, some heroic like Nikki, some of them heroic through their intelligence in everyday life, and other stories about all of their wonderful attributes--a million reasons why Akitas should NEVER be banned.