This interview with a Japanese man reveals the thoughts of pilots who participated in Kamikazes before their suicide attempt. This young man named Okamoto, wanted to fight for his country, and make his family and the emperor proud. He thought with his attempt, along with many others, the Japanese would end up with a victory. Okamoto explains that by joining the kamikazes, he felt important and a sense of relief. He felt he was living for a reason, even though he would prove that reason by dying. He states he was honored to die for his country, and hopefully that his actions in war, would redeem him for being a bad son. The article compares these kamikaze pilots to any American soldier, and how they just want to participate in the war and fight for their country. However, Okamoto also had a personal reason for taking part in the Kamikazes. His older brother had once been a pilot, and did not come home alive. He felt as though it was his duty to become a pilot when he was given his assignment. Further in the article, the effects on Okamoto's family is shown. His mother is proud to have her son survive, but as she recites his going away letter, the reader senses she was greatly impacted by his life threatening decision. The interview illustrates the hardships of war and the dedication throughout the Japanese society.
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