What was it like to be a Japanese soldier in ww2?

Initially, the average Japanese soldier/sailor was highly trained, highly dedicated and exceptionally tenacious in battle. The culture, which virtually nothing was known about in the West was so alien, most Americans got their first notion of Japan on 7Dec41. Enlisted/drafted soldiers had a miserable life.

How cruel was the Japanese army?

Having prepared for many years for the inevitable war with China, Japanese soldiers possessed an inherent brutality that came into effect in their treatment of civilians and prisoners of war. Japanese soldiers were instructed that if captured by the enemy they would not only dishonour the army, but also their parents.

What was life like in the Japanese army?

The diarist’s comrades changed often. For the next five days, they roamed from island to island, evading capture from American troops. He wrote how weak he was and that among him and his remaining comrades, they carried one rusted rifle.

How many Japanese Americans served in the military during World War II?

Japanese Americans served in all the branches of the United States Armed Forces, including the United States Merchant Marine. An estimated 33,000 Japanese Americans served in the U.S. military during World War II, of which 20,000 joined the Army.

What did the Japanese do before and during World War II?

The Japanese military before and during World War II committed numerous atrocities against civilian and military personnel. Its surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, prior to a declaration of war and without warning killed 2,403 neutral military personnel and civilians and wounded 1,247 others.

What role do Japanese American War veterans play in the community?

Because of the unique role they played during and after the war, Japanese American war veterans continue to play an influential role in the community. As was the case with many minority groups, Japanese Americans viewed military service as an avenue to upward mobility.

What was the US government’s role in the Japanese internment?

US government-produced film attempting to defend the massive internment of Japanese Americans in detention camps during World War II. During the early years of World War II, Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated from their homes in the West Coast because military leaders and public opinion combined to fan unproven fears of sabotage.