I think everyone knows that GEORGE BUSH (4116-1995) was shot down in his torpedo bomber and splashed just off the shore of the island of Chi Chi Jima. He saw men of the Japanese garrison putting out in a boat to grab him and take him to the island when USS FINBACK made a timely appearance and saved GEORGE to later become the President of the United States.

But how many know that GEORGE BUSH was to be a dinner guest of the Japanese garrison on the island? Actually, GEORGE was going to BE the dinner of the Japanese soldiers!

When YOYA KAWAMURA (1739-LIFE-1991) visited this HQ earlier this year, he gave us this story. He told us that the Japanese Army garrison on the island ATE downed American fliers but not because they were short of food. They had plenty of food; but they did it for morale. There seems to be no doubt that if the Japanese boat had reached GEORGE BUSH first, he would have wound up on the menu.

According to YOYA, one young Japanese soldier wrote home to his mother that, after eating his part of a meal which consisted of another downed American pilot, he had to rush into the latrine and vomit. The thought made him sick. However, it was the order of the garrison Commander that downed American fliers be eaten. It was his opinion that it would maintain high morale.

The Commandant was brought to trial after the war for these very crimes, and when asked to describe the taste, he said that American fliers tasted very good. He was hanged for his crimes.

PRESIDENT BUSH, I speak for all Members when I say that we are glad that USS FINBACK got to you before the Japanese sushi chef; and many thanks to YOYA for this information.