Nishi Takeichi
Quick Summary
Nishi Takeichi was a Japanese equestrian who won a gold medal in the individual jumping competition at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. Born into a royal family, Nishi was skilled with horses from a young age. He also charmed Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin, becoming a popular athlete.1
Nishi served as a lieutenant in the Japanese Army and was later promoted to colonel during World War II. He commanded a tank battalion during the Battle of Iwo Jima, where he and his troops committed suicide rather than surrender. His pre-war Hollywood friends honored him after his death.1
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