Tetsuzo Iwamoto

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Tetsuzo Iwamoto (1916-1955?) was among Japan's leading fighter aces. He entered the Imperial Navy in 1934 and completed pilot training in December 1936. His first combat occurred over China in early 1938. He emerged as the top naval ace of the campaign, credited with 14 aerial victories. Subsequently he flew Zeros from the aircraft carrier Zuikaku from December 1941 to May 1942, including the Battle of the Coral Sea.

In late 1943 Iwamoto's air group was sent to Rabaul, New Britain, resulting in three months of combat against U.S. and allied aircraft. In that time he reportedly claimed over 40 kills, becoming known as "the Richthofen of Rabaul."

Subsequent assignments were Truk Atoll in the Carolines and the Philippines, being commissioned an ensign in October 1944. Following evacuation of the Philippines, Iwamoto served in home defense and trained kamikaze pilots.

Like many Japanese veterans, Iwamoto was reported to have fallen into depression after the war. His diary was found after his death, with claims of 202 Allied aircraft destroyed. That figure clearly is far exaggerated. Professor Hata and Dr. Izawa reckon the highest possible figure at about 80. Depending on various totals cited, Iwamoto or Hiroyoshi Nishizawa was Japan's ace of aces.