LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2006 October Grand Format Autographs #629  / 

25187

PT-109 Destruction Related by Japanese Captain

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Militaria Start Price:150.00 USD Estimated At:600.00 - 800.00 USD
PT-109 Destruction Related by Japanese Captain
<B>PT-109's Destruction as Related in Atsumari Yamashiro Autograph Document Signed.</B></I> "<I>The True story of Pres. John F. Kennedy's PT 109 Collision</B></I>", one page, 8.5" x 11", np, nd. Yamashiro commanded the 11th Destroyer Flotilla, which included his flagship <I>Amagiri,</B></I> the Japanese destroyer that literally cut PT-109 in two on the night of August 2, 1943 while the latter was on patrol in the Solomon Islands.This statement is a refutation of journalist Robert Donovan's version of the boat's sinking as it appeared in his 1961 book, <I>PT-109.</B></I> Yamashiro, as an eye-witness writes in part: "<I>...Upon sighting the PT 109, y concern was the distance was closing, and if the Amagiri would collide with the PT109, the bow of the Amagiri might burn by the explosion of the torpedo on board PT109. I, Captain Yamashiro ordered 'Hard-A-Port' which was to avoid collision. Afterward Skipper Lt. Cmdr. Hamani told a deliberate lie when he ordered 'Hard-A-Starboard'. The fact that Amagiri hit PT109 with her starboard propeller blade proves the starboard statement a lie. When turning starboard it is impossible that she could hit anything with her starboard propeller. If there would still be an Imperial Japanese Navy, Skipper would be reprimanded and disgraced for this outrageous lie, completely ignoring my presence on board. Unfortunately, his lie was picked up by Mr. Donovan in his version of PT109...</B></I>". Yamashiro insists the sinking was unintentional and, to set the record straight, provides a detailed map showing the relative positions of both craft. Excellent condition.
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