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The World War 2 Japanese Prison Diaries of
Alexander John James
Appendix - Speeches
Resume of the address delivered on Oct. 12, 1942
Our four silent heroes of the Imperial Navy who were in the special attaching unit have returned triumphantly on the second Japanese English exchange boat on October 9th. Ambassador Kawai who returned on the same boat reported that the Australian government have praised the bravery and the self-sacrificing spirits of these four men and held an impressive funeral service in their honor which deeply moved the bereaved families.
The Japanese newspaper reporters overhearing and seeing this incident have all paid their respects and lauded the Australian government’s noble deed, transcending friend and foe distinctions.
I believe that mutual understandings without the semblance of hostility will be the foundation of the establishment of peace in the future which will eliminate numerous conflicting international problems, and which I believe to be a good sign.
Will you display your true national character particularly materialistically - that is to contribute towards the fields of production by displaying your superior talents to their fullest extent. For example, we will attempt to have you understand the fundamental spirit of Japanese soldier – to be true to one’s cause; and that death is lighter than feather, the essence of the spirit which motivates us to die willing for one’s country.
I honestly believe that these mutual understandings and contributions will be the stepping stone to the establishment of ever-lasting peace in the future.
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