Did Japanese Pilots Return from Pearl Harbor?
On December 7, 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces remains one of the most significant and well-documented military engagements of the 20th century. This tactical operation aimed to catch U.S. naval forces by surprise. But have you ever wondered what happened to the Japanese pilots involved in this attack?
Japanese Aircraft and Their Mission
Out of the 353 Japanese aircraft launched for the attack, only 29 were shot down, with 20 of these losses occurring during the second wave. After completing their objectives, the majority of the aircraft returned to their carriers, marking a tactical success for Japan at the time. However, not all pilots were able to make it back to the carriers safely.
Despite the significant air superiority demonstrated by the Japanese forces, there were no reports of Japanese pilots returning to Japan following the attack or being captured. This was due to the highly specialized training these pilots underwent, which often involved diving their aircraft into enemy ships. This behavior was not only dangerous but also required a high level of courage and samurai-like grit.
The Downed Plane on Niihau Island
Interestingly, one plane did crash-land on Niihau Island, a privately held island inhabited by 136 people, mostly indigenous Hawaiians and 3 Japanese immigrants. Initial skirmishes and coordination issues occurred between the Japanese pilot and the inhabitants of Niihau. However, this event did not lead to any substantial change in military policies. Instead, it served as a fringe incident rather than a significant operation.
Following the crash-landing, there was an altercation when the Japanese pilot came into contact with two Hawaiian residents of Japanese descent. The incident raised concerns among the U.S. military, who feared that the pilot's presence might be linked to a premeditated espionage operation. Consequently, this led to the internment of the Japanese immigrant population on the West Coast. However, it's important to note that only about a dozen Nisei (Japanese-Americans born in the U.S.) were detained in Hawaii, and no others were interned in the Midwest or East Coast.
Kamikazes and the Suicide Attackers of Pearl Harbor
Beyond the attack on Pearl Harbor, the term Kamikazes refers to special attack units who were ordered to use suicide attacks, often to great effect later in the war. However, it is inaccurate to consider all Japanese pilots who made suicide attacks as kamikazes. For instance, First Lieutenant Fusata Iida is known as one of the most well-known Pearl Harbor attackers to execute a suicide attack. He did not receive orders to do so but made this decision alone after his aircraft was hit and he smelled gasoline. With no way to return to the carriers, he chose to die rather than be captured.
While the majority of Japanese pilots returned to their carriers, the actions of a few and the events surrounding the crash-landing on Niihau illustrate the unique and harrowing circumstances faced by those involved in the attack on Pearl Harbor. The battle highlights the courage, fear, and significant responsibilities these pilots had to endure.
Keywords: Pearl Harbor, Japanese Aircraft, Kamikazes