Matrix Games Forums

Hard to believe as it may be, because it is virtually never listed that way, the Yokosuka Second SNLF is an airborne unit - although it was not used for airborne operations.
Needless to say, from the next update, RHS will reflect this. It is important even if not used for airborne ops because it means it has far fewer heavy weapons, and also because it has a different logistical footprint (in terms of lift and feeding).

The 1st Yokosuka SNLF (Special Naval Landing Force) was formed 20 September 1941, at Yokosuka Naval District, round a battalion of 520 paratroopers. The 2nd Yokosuka also formed at the Yokosuka port area, 15 October 1941, with 746 men and trained as such, took no part in any airborne operations and became an island defensive base unit. The 3rd Yokosuka was formed on 20 November 1941, again at the Naval facility and consisted of 850 men. This unit was involved in the invasion of Dutch West Timor as airborne inserted infantry, setting off from the captured air base at Kendari.[2]

This issue was cussed and discussed, ad-nauseum, and put to bed, on both the Matrix Games and AxisHistory forums years ago. The Yokosuka 2nd SNLF was not parachute trained and had a nominal organization. It was part of the first ‘regularization’ establishment of July, 1939, ex the first ‘authorization’ of December, 1937. I am surprised that someone with experience with Japanese forces doesn’t know this.

All of the tertiary sources that say they were so-trained refer back to Rottman /Takizawa as their source. Akira Takizawa has categorically stated that the inference of such training, in his book with Mr Rottman, was an unfortunate editorial oversight and is simply wrong. Salecker and Nila both reference Takizawa for the premise, and have recognized the error. Dr Bennighof has made suitable affirmative corrections to his work.

Mr Takizawa is a secondary source, but a good one. He uses primary Japanese sources for his context and opinions and his bibliography is superb. Unfortunately, once something appears on the web, it takes on a life of its own regardless of its truth. Such is the case for Yokosuka 2nd SNLF.

[ed] Simply copying and pasting a website paragraph does not make it so. Or is this just a straw man, looking for real answers within the responses? If so, why don't you simply ask?

Matt