The Yamashita Decision.

Abstract : This paper presents a case study on senior military ethics. Primarily, the case study focus is on General MacArthur's decision to try and execute General Yamashita for war crimes committed in the Philippines. The historical introduction and the facts surrounding the trial provides foundation for the student to discuss the ethical ramifications in the case of General Yamashita. In the review and conclusion the student can gain some insight into the precedent that was set in defining command responsibility. Keywords: Military law; Military commanders; Ethics; War crimes trials. (edc)