Background
An ex-retainer of Saga clan, the eldest son of Tokushiro; after graduating from Naval Academy (1897) entered the Imperial Navy. Distinguished himself during the Russo-Japanese War (1S04-5) as chief gunner oi the warship Ghiyoda. Was a teacher at Naval Academy
(1909) and at the same time captain oi the Suma and Niitaka and commander of Chinhai Naval Port in Korea. Promoted vice-admiral (1925).
