Tomoyuki Yamashita

Yamashita commanded the 25th Army in the Malayan campaign, culminating in the capture of Singapore. His forces advanced rapidly through Malaya, outflanking British defenses. The surrender of 80,000 British and Commonwealth troops at Singapore was the largest British surrender in history.

Yamashita was appointed commander of the 14th Area Army in the Philippines. He oversaw the defense of Leyte and Luzon against American forces. The Battle of Leyte Gulf resulted in a decisive American naval victory, but Yamashita's forces continued to resist on Luzon.

Yamashita commanded the defense of Luzon against the American invasion. His forces conducted a prolonged retreat into the mountains, fighting a delaying action. The campaign resulted in heavy casualties on both sides and the destruction of Manila. Yamashita surrendered in September 1945.

Yamashita was tried by a U.S. military commission in Manila for war crimes, including the Manila massacre. He was held responsible for atrocities committed by troops under his command, even if he did not order them. He was found guilty and executed by hanging in February 1946.