1. Symbol of Glory
A golden, chrysanthemum-shaped shield more than six feet in diameter protruded
from the ship's bow and was visible for miles. Such "Kikusui" crests, named for
a hero and martyr of the 14th century, appeared on only the most important
ships of the Imperial Navy—battleships, aircraft carriers, and cruisers.
The only other element of the ship painted gold was the ship's name, which like
the crest was a powerful symbol. "Yamato" is a poetic, even mystical synonym
for Japan itself.
