Shoichi Yokoi, a sergeant in the Imperial Japanese Army, was discovered in a forest on Guam by two local hunters in January 1972. He had been living in isolation since the conclusion of World War II in 1945, dedicated to a code of honor that refused to accept the war's end. After the United States took possession of Guam during the war, Yokoi had adeptly avoided detection while surviving by foraging for food and relying on his skills as a soldier. Over these years, he had created a life in the jungle, made shelter, and remained committed to his duty despite the passing decades. Upon finding him, the hunters were astonished by his story and reported it, leading to his eventual return to Japanese society.Yokoi's reluctance to surrender was rooted in his belief that he could continue to serve his country, a sentiment that was profound among soldiers who had pledged allegiance to the Emperor. His encounter with the modern world—having been unaware of many developments, including the advancements in technology and social change—made his eventual return to Japan both a culture shock and a significant reconnection with his heritage. The Japanese media portrayed Yokoi as a symbol of loyalty and courage while also sparking discussions about the psychological impact of war and the soldiers who fought in it, long after the battles had ceased.