Introduction to the Pearl Harbor Attack

April 19, 2023

The attack on Pearl Harbor, often overshadowed by its significant impact on the global stage, also carries a series of misconceptions regarding the number and type of casualties. Contrary to popular belief, it was not the American military alone that faced losses during the Japanese strike. This article aims to debunk these myths and clarify the true extent of the casualties involved, focusing specifically on the Japanese side.

Myth vs. Reality: Japanese Casualties at Pearl Harbor

A common myth holds that the Japanese military deployed ground troops during the attack on Pearl Harbor. However, this is not supported by historical records. The only individuals present at the attack were sailors and naval aviators.

Numbers Unveiled

Submarine Crews

According to reports, 26 Japanese manned submarines were dispatched as part of the Pearl Harbor attack. Among these, 10 sailors were on board the five midget submarines, and it is uncertain how many of these were destroyed by American destroyers. Of the remaining Japanese submarines, it appears that at least two did not receive any American assistance and went down with their crews. Additionally, one crew member from a midget submarine survived the attack and was captured. Another crew member drowned while abandoning the ship, while his partner was captured.

Airborne Casualties

Five midget submarines did not return and it is assumed that their crews were likely lost. The 29 aircraft sent to bombard Pearl Harbor also did not all make it back. Some were shot down, with two to four of these ditching on their way back to Japan. One aircraft was forced to crash-land on nearby Niihau Island.

Further Japanese Losses

In addition to the losses suffered during the Pearl Harbor attack, other Japanese forces also faced casualties. Two of the carriers diverted to Wake Island saw their aircraft shot down during subsequent conflicts. Moreover, the Japanese submarine I-70, though often confused with a claim on the Wake defenders, was actually sunk off Hawaii on December 10th.

Historical Records and Reliable Sources

Historical records indicate that 64 Japanese airmen and sailors were indeed lost during the Pearl Harbor attack. This number includes the 10 midget submarine crew members aboard the five destroyed submarines, and also accounts for the crew of I-70, if they are to be included in the total. It is important to note that different sources may vary slightly as to the exact number, with some reports including the crew of I-70 in their tally, which would account for the stated 65 additional men.

Conclusion: A Clarification for Future Reference

It is clear from the historical facts that no Japanese Army troops were present and no soldiers were killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor. Only sailors and naval aviators were directly involved. This clarification is crucial in understanding the true scale of the casualties on both the Japanese and American sides during this pivotal moment in history.

Further Reading

For more detailed information on the attack, the Japanese operation, and the subsequent history, consult official military documents and reputable historical texts.