JAPANESE ORDER TO SAIL

by Congressional Investigation Pearl Harbor Attack

I would like to say at this time that upon introducing the subject of "Date of leaving port," I went back to the original script as prepared a few days ago.

On November 25, the commander in chief, combined fleet, issued the following order to the striking force, which had, since November 22, been assembled at Hitokappu Bay.

(1) The task force, keeping its movements strictly secret and maintaining close guard against submarines and aircraft, shall advance into Hawaiian waters and upon the very opening of hostilities, shall at5tack the main force of the United States Fleet in Hawaii and deal it a mortal blow.  The first aid raid is planned for dawn of X-day -- exact date to be given by later order.

Upon completion of the air raid the task force, keeping close coordination and guarding against enemy counter attack, shall speedily leave the enemy waters and then return to Japan.

(b) Should it appear certain that Japanese-American negotiations will reach an amicable settlement prior to the commencement of hostile action, all the forces of the combined fleet are to be ordered to reassemble and return to their bases.

[138] (e) The task force shall leave Hitokappu Bay on the morning of November 26 and advance to 42° N. and 170° E. -- standing by position -- on the afternoon of December 4, Japan time, and speedily complete refueling.

Commander Biard, will you point to that position?

The actual time of departure was 9:00 a.m., November 26, Japan time -- 1:30 p.m., November 25, Hawaii time.