Remain Calm Until The

Water Touches The Feet

Colonel Yokoyama, commander of the Javanese 15th In dependent Engineer Regiment, which was to be given a major part in what the Japanese hoped would be the conquest of Papua in 1942, is credited with what must be one of the most remarkable "instructions to troops” ever issued in any war.

As his men were approaching Rabaul, in two transports, to join the invasion fleet, he issued this document: “From today we are entering an area subject to air attack.

Hereafter there will be no more exercises; any attack will be the real thing. Get out on deck be fore the enemy’s arrival. Those who are slow will be regarded as cowards. When sinking , re main calm until the water touches the feet, and when in the water, take the necessary precautions. Those who hurriedly jump into the sea will drown.

When in the water, sections or platoons should gather together and sing military songs. All must be calm, even when awaiting rescue for perhaps two days and nights” —From “Retreat From Kokoda”.