A Young Soldier's Farewell Letter

Translated into English is this farewell letter written by a Japanese Navy soldier who was only 18 years old. He wrote it before he left for an attack on an American battleship in a Kamikaze Human Torpedo Kaiten. While I was translating his words into English, tears ran down from my eyes.

Please watch the following YouTube video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZZ6LmeOdB4

<<English translation>>

Mother, I will die for my beloved country Japan in about three hours.
My mind is very clear. It's true, Mother. I am not afraid of anything.
However, since I had some time before I leave for an attack, I thought a little bit.
Then, I have become sad.

Today you will receive my death notice.
Father will understand it because he is a man.

But, but, Mother, you are a very kind woman.
Perhaps tears may come down from your eyes.
My younger brother and younger sister may also be sad for my death.

Mother...
Thinking of such a matter, I realize I am also an ordinary human being.
I am now sad too.

But Mother...
Please think what would happen if I didn't take action as a Kamikaze Kaiten soldier.
The enemy is coming so close to the Japan archipelago.
If I didn't do anything, my most beloved mother would die.
That's why I will go.

Mother...
If I didn't go, old father would have to fight by holding a gun in his hand.

Mother, I beg you, please hold your tears even though you come to know my death.

But, you may cry, because you are really a gentle and kind mother.

Mother, I am not afraid of any enemy.

What I am most afraid of is your tears.