James.

I would respectfully suggest that highlighting Tsuji actually reinforces the immense sacrifice of the Indian Forces. In the first eight days of the Pacific War, almost 500 men from numerous Indian Regiments including the 17th Dogra’s, Baluchi’s, Rajput’s and Gurkhas were killed in action against the Japanese or were murdered when captured. Everyone on the Allied side was encountering and fighting against a phenomenon never before experienced. The fanatacism of the attack and the ferocity of the defence can only place those Allied units in action in a very positive light.

You are right to highlight the Japanese attacks elsewhere in the Far East and Pacific. Whilst no doubt some politicians, and in the fullness of time the British people were grateful for America’s involvement (a gratitude which may have been paid for financially but can never be repaid emotionally) those caught up in Japan’s Pacific and Far East conquests felt terribly let down, both by the military and the Government.

Regards,

kev35