"The Imperial Japanese Navy fighter aircraft “Shiden-kai,” piloted by Lieutenant Hayashi Yoshishige from Kanagawa Prefecture, [a member of the Sento 407 of the 343 Kokutai], engaged a formation of U.S. B-29 bombers in April 1945, shot down one aircraft, and then made an emergency landing near the coast of Origuchi, Akune City.
"The "Shiden-kai" had lain on the seabed for 81 years since its crash, but on the morning of the 8th [today], a salvage operation was carried out and the fuselage was recovered. It is reported that not only the engine and both wings, but also the twin 20mm machine guns—considered a defining feature of the aircraft—remain intact. Plans are being considered to display it in Izumi City to preserve the memory of the war."
From the site of the group working for the preservation of the aircraft, here:
On April 21, 1945, Lt Hayashi Yoshishige took off from Kokubu Air Base as the commander of the 3rd Shotai of the 1st Chutai. He added his own name to the sortie roster and headed for the skies.
Over Fukuyama Town, Aira District, Kagoshima Prefecture (now Fukuyama Town, Kirishima City), he encountered a formation of 11 B-29s. A fierce battle ensued.
So focused on the attack, Lt Hayashi became separated from his wingman and pursued the enemy aircraft alone. The battle shifted to the skies over Izumi.
It was at this point that PO1c Shimizu Toshinobu of the 3rd Chutai rushed to his aid. The two aircraft launched a relentless joint attack. Finally, they sent a radio message reporting “one enemy aircraft shot down.”
However, immediately afterward, Hayashi’s aircraft was also hit. He shut down the engine and, through skillful piloting, glided toward Wakimoto Coast to attempt an emergency landing.
According to recently disclosed records held by then-Commander Genda Minoru, the aircraft crashed into the sea off Orikuchi Coast. It appears that the aircraft’s brakes were suddenly applied at that moment.
Due to the recoil from the brakes, Lt Hayashi struck his head violently against the instrument panel. He died at the young age of 24 from a fracture of the base of the skull.
No comments:
Post a Comment