One of Japan's most skilled fliers, Fuchida commanded the air attack against Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 and was the last to leave the battle area. After World War II, Fuchida converted to Christianity and became a nondenominational preacher, traveling frequently to America and later becoming a U.S. citizen. ALS, one page, 8.25 x 11, December 12, 1965. Fuchida writes to Berkeley schoolteacher Ernest Schwartz. In part: “I knew the commander who was a skipper of the Japanese destroyer ‘Amagiri’ which split Mr. Kennedy’s PT 109. However, I have just forgotten his name and I don’t know his address in Japan, only I knew he is now a mayor of a small city in the Northern Japan. However I am now writing a letter for my new-found friends … where recently I had my accommodation by their courtesy and read at their home a certain magazine of Legion in which the Japanese Commander’s story was found.” Accompanied by Schwartz’ original letter to Fuchida. In fine condition, with usual folds. R&R COA.
