1942

A pacifist? Was that all? But it would have been enough to result in ostrarization in the close-knit family of military officers. However, he understood the deference she would have received with a political relative. “What bothers me, Mrs. Sanderson, is that I cannot recall the last time I used the word anathema in an intelligent conversation.”

The comment brought a wide and unexpected grin from her, and he continued. “I have no argument with anyone’s political or moral views. Somehow I’ve always felt that part of my job was to protect them. Maybe I’m a little naive, but I have no problem with pacifists. After this war is over,” he added drily, “I may become one myself.”

“Well then, Captain, I’m even more glad you came.” Melissa Wilson and her recently arrived husband stepped behind them as they walked to their cars. “I presume you will have to return to duty.”

He grinned sheepishly. “Uh, I told my bosses that’s where I was now.”

Alexa laughed out loud. It felt good. “Well, get back to them and don’t get in trouble for playing hooky. You were Tim’s friend, and now you’re my friend. Please don’t hesitate to stop by when you’re in the area.”

Alexa meant the invitation. Even though she barely knew Jake Novacek, she found herself trusting and liking him. She needed strong friends at this time in her life, and Captain Jake Novacek looked like he would more than fill the bill.

“I will do that, Mrs. Sanderson,” Jake said, wondering if she meant it or was just being polite.

“My name is Alexa, Captain, and my friends call me Lexy for some ungodly reason.”

“Mine is Jake,” he said, grinning. She did mean it. Lexy? What a lousy nickname for an elegant lady. He decided that he would never call her Lexy. They shook hands as if meeting for the first time, which, in a way, they were. Her grip was strong and firm, which was interesting; most women had no idea how to shake hands. “And I am honored to be your friend, Alexa.”

Behind them, neither saw Melissa nudge her husband in the ribs.

Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto again entered the residence of Prime Minister Tojo. He was pleasantly surprised to find that Tojo was not alone. Present with him was Lieutenant General Sakai Takashi, who commanded the 23d Area Army, based near Canton, China. Yamamoto took Takashi’s presence as a good omen, although the army general looked grim and unpleasant.

As was proper, Tojo took the lead. “As you may have surmised by General Takashi’s presence, we have decided to give conditional approval to the invasion of Hawaii. The fact that Hitler has declared war on the United States means there will be no major reinforcements available for their Pacific Fleet for some time.”

Yamamoto bowed from a seated position. “I am honored. However, you said ‘conditional approval.’ May I ask what the conditions are?”

Takashi answered. “I’ll be blunt, Admiral. I agree that it is a marvelous opportunity to further injure the United States and thus further ensure Japan’s victory. But it will necessitate changes to plans and events that are already taking place. I am also concerned by the size of the American army contingent on Oahu. Therefore, I insist that the navy provide total superiority of sea and air.”

Takashi’s comments verged on rude, but Yamamoto ignored it. Too much was at stake to let interservice pride get in the way. “When the army steps ashore,” he replied firmly, “there will be no opposition from American planes or ships. Additionally, I will provide a full brigade of marines to lead the amphibious part of the assault.”

Takashi blinked in surprise. He hadn’t expected that.

Yamamoto continued. “I will provide a diversion that will confuse the Americans and cause them to split their forces. Right now, they expect that any landing will occur on the northern shore of Oahu, farthest from Honolulu. In that regard they are correct; however, we will make them think otherwise.”

Takashi almost smiled but caught himself. “Good. For my part, the army will provide the 38th Infantry Division. It is now involved in mopping-up operations in Hong Kong and is not scheduled for further action for a couple of months. It will be resupplied and will be the focus of the invasion.”

Yamamoto was delighted. The 38th was a crack, class A division, instead of the second-tier force he’d planned on, and it consisted of nearly thirty thousand men. Takashi, however, was not quite telling the truth. The British were putting up a stout defense, and it was estimated that they would fight on for another week or so.

“Additionally,” Tojo said, “the 38th will be reinforced by one infantry regiment each from the 52nd, 53rd, and 54th divisions, which are stationed in Japan. They are class C divisions but will give a good account of themselves under the circumstances.”

Yamamoto nodded. The additional regiments, regardless of quality, would bring the 38th up to a total of nearly forty thousand men, and, when the marine brigade was added, the Japanese ground forces would truly be formidable.