Hideki Tojo admitted to knowledge of the Bataan Death March. He also authorized the use of Allied prisoners as laborers on the Death Railway. Furthermore, his own words contradicted his stated inability to control the actions of field commanders. In May 1942, he said: “The present condition of affairs in this country does not permit anyone to lie idle, doing nothing, but eating freely….In dealing with prisoners, I hope you will see that they are usefully employed.”

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Military personnel of all nations have committed regrettable acts during wartime. What separates the atrocities of German and Japanese personnel during World War II from those of other nations is the sanction of their countries’ military and political leadership.

Yuko Tojo should realize that whether or not her grandfather’s intentions were patriotic in no way excuses the heinous acts to which he gave both tacit and vocal approval. Those not convinced by undeniable facts should stop kidding themselves.

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