Memorial Service for the Fallen of the Battleship Tama

On October 25th, I attended the memorial service for the fallen crew of the battleship Tama at Ōkunitama Shrine.

At the recent autumn festival at Yasukuni Shrine, I learned that my great-uncle died in battle on October 25, 1944, in Leyte Gulf, Philippines.

I only knew he had been aboard the battleship Yamashiro, and I hadn’t particularly researched the history with great interest. Therefore, attending this memorial service for the fallen of the battleship Tama was very educational. I learned about the battleship Yamashiro as well, as the battleship Tama sank on the same day after being struck by a torpedo from the American submarine Garao.

I was also deeply impressed by the pencil drawing donated by Hiroyuki Sugano on this day.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DQQFdeukpjd/

Taking this opportunity, I intend to renew my studies to honor our predecessors and gain a proper understanding of history.

I express my deepest condolences to all those who lost their lives in battle. As a local assembly member, I pledge to exert every effort within my power for the enduring peace of Japan and will continue my activities moving forward.

Finally, I understand that many individuals contributed significantly to organizing this memorial service for those lost aboard the warship Tama.

I offer my heartfelt gratitude for providing this vital opportunity to honor our predecessors and pass down history to future generations.