The torpedo planes went in first. They were all shot down.
Supposedly, a Japanese Officer watched the torpedo planes pressing the attack even as the ones in front were shot down and said,
“They told us the Americans have no Bushido (warrior spirit). They lied. The Americans have Bushido.”
Though I doubt that he actually said these exact words, the movie “Midway” sums up the Japanese astonishment at the Americans’ fighting spirit when Admiral Nagumo, after watching the U.S. torpedo squadrons press home their attacks and getting wiped out, says with astonishment, “They fight like samurai, these Americans!”
I had the privilege of attending a Battle of Midway commemoration at the National World War II Memorial today. Among the speakers was 93-year-old Senator Bob Dole, he of the gentle demeanor and self-depreciating sense of humor. Also in attendance were six veterans from the battle. This was probably the last chance those veterans would have in their lifetimes to see their glorious victory be publically commemorated. I’m so glad I was there to see it.