Grew Describes Anti-Liberal Purge By Japanese Army, Navy Officers

In a feature article written for the issue of the Alumni Bulletin, Joseph C. Grew '02, former United States ambassador to Japan, and president of the Alumni Association, expressed his opinions on the the internal political system of that country by stating that, "Life is cheap in Japan."

Grew, who was in Tokyo during the wave of assasinations which took place on February 26, 1936, personnaly observed the tragic events which led up to the purge, and had known several of the more liberal figures who were violently 'removed from office.'

On the night before the first killings took place, Admiral Viscount Saito and Admiral Suzuki attended a large dinner party at the American Embassy, and less than half a day later, both were attacked.

The former, well-liked by the many Americans who had known him as Governor General of Korea, was shot to death, while the Emperor's Grand Chamberlin, Suzuki, was seriously wounded after a long conversation in which he calmly discussed his fate with the murderer.

Treating the backgrounds for these violent plots, Grew continued, "Assassination is a well-recognized political procedure in Japan. When the extremists in the armed forces, especially the younger officers, believe that the Emperor's close advisers are too liberal in outlook and are failing to support the extremist and expansionist ambitions of the army and navy, they first try to get them out of office by political maneuvers and, if such maneuvers fail, then by armed assault."

Friends Loyal Under Fire

Although unable to check completely all details of the many struggles which took place in the early hours of the "February 26 Incident," Grew has been able to confirm several stories of great heroims on the part of the victims and their associates. The Prime Minister's life was saved by his brother-in-law, who sacrificed himself with characteristic disregard for personal safety, while the 20 year old grandaughter of Count Makino prevented his death at the hands of a group of soldiers.

Recently awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Civil Law and made an Honorary Chancellor by Union College, Grew will preside over the Commencement Day meeting of the Alumni Association after addressing the graduation audience.