Tadamichi Kuribayashi quotes

Tadamichi Kuribayashi was a Japanese general best known for commanding the defense of Iwo Jima during World War II. His innovative defensive strategies made the battle one of the most difficult for American forces in the Pacific. He is remembered for his leadership, bravery, and tactical ingenuity. Here are 8 of his quotes:

The battle is approaching its end. Since the enemy's landing, even the gods would weep at the bravery of the officers and men under my command. ... [My] men died one by one, and I regret very much that I have allowed the enemy to occupy a piece of Japanese territory. (Tadamichi Kuribayashi)
The enemy may land on this island soon. Once they do, we must follow the fate of those on Attu and Saipan. Our officers and men know about "Death” very well. I am sorry to end my life here, fighting the United States of America, but I want to defend this island as long as possible and to delay the enemy air raids on Tokyo. Ah! You have worked well for a long time as my wife and the mother of my three children. Your life will become harder and more precarious. Watch out for your health and live long. The future of our children will not be easy either. Please take care of them after my death. View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
Do not plan for my return... View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
The US is the last country in the world we should fight. View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
All officers of Chichi Jima, goodbye from Iwo. View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
We are sorry indeed we could not have defended the island successfully. Now I, Kuribayashi, believe that the enemy will invade Japan proper from this island. ... I am very sorry, because I can imagine the scenes of disaster in our empire. However, I comfort myself a little, seeing my officers and men die without regret after struggling in this inch-by-inch battle against an overwhelming enemy with many tanks and being exposed to indescribable bombardments. ... I would like now to apologize to my senior and fellow officers for not being strong enough to stop the enemy invasion. View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
You must not expect my survival... View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi
We are still fighting", Kuribayashi radioed on March 22. "The strength under my command is now about four hundred. Tanks are attacking us. The enemy suggested we surrender through loudspeaker, but our officers and men just laughed and paid no attention. View quote
Tadamichi Kuribayashi

Tadamichi Kuribayashi

Tadamichi Kuribayashi - Image
Occupation: Japanese General
Born: July 7, 1891
Died: March 26, 1945
Quotes count: 8
Wikipedia: Tadamichi Kuribayashi