bfl
Have been unlucky enough to have had short layovers in Japan. Regardless of the circumstance, I still see any Japanese as merciless torturers of those unable to defend themselves. Their brutality and lack of any care for non-Japanese is genetic. No payback will ever be enough.
I had a great uncle taken as a POW as a young Marine in the early part of the Pacific theater action. Slave labored in mines, docks and rail yards, and on “down time,” endured beatings with shovels and wide leather belts for 8-10 hours at a time.
I’ll always remember with pride getting to meet the (late) Brig. Gen Paul Tibbets, pilot of Enola Gay, about 12 years ago and expressing my “thanks” for taking care of business, especially on behalf of my late relative.
Harry Truman was right then, and still right today.
Years ago (70s) when I joined the Army, there was a Physician who worked at the Boston processing center for all armed forces recruits. He used to tell every candidate his story about his experience during the Bataan Death March. It was quite compelling. Thousands of Boston area enlistees heard it I was assured.
A few years ago I was lead to a site which hosted among much, his affidavit regarding treatment of POWs by the Japanese. It was a remarkable testimony.
Unfortunately that link stopped working for me a couple of years ago and the info was removed.
I wonder if any readers would know how to find it on line again.
As I recall the Doctor was from Boston, likely of Polish extraction but possibly other eastern European, born I think in 1910.
It was quite worth the time to regard.
I will save this thread and review from time to time in case a response does come up on this question.
Thanks.