Captain Kuno

29-year-old captain Kuno was a Japanese kamikaze (Special Attack Unit), who took to the air in May, 24 1945 and never came back. The letter was addressed to his children: 5-year-old son Masanori and 2-year-old daughter Kioko. The letter wasn’t read out immediately because of their low age. The mother delivered the father’s message only in 10 years.

Dear Masanori and Kioko, although you cannot see me, I will always look at you.

Listen to your mother and do not disappoint her. When you grow up, choose your own paths and become good Japanese. Do not envy other children that they have fathers, for I’ll become a spirit and be looking after you both. Study well and help your mother.

I can’t help you, so you have to be the best friends. I was vigorous, flew a bomber and killed all enemies. Please, be better than me.

That’s how you’ll avenge my death.

May, 1945