Why did all the kamikaze pilots wear protective helmets if they knew they were going on a suicide mission?

During World War II, the Japanese military developed kamikaze attack tactics in which pilots flew suicide missions in planes packed with explosives and aimed at enemy targets. While it may seem paradoxical that pilots embarking on a suicide mission wore protective helmets, in fact the use of helmets was common among kamikaze pilots.

At the time, many pilots believed that a helmet would provide some protection from enemy fire or anti-aircraft fire during a kamikaze flight. Kamikaze pilots were not encouraged to crash their planes into the enemy, but rather to aim their planes at specific targets such as enemy ships or airfields. The helmet also served to keep pilots warm in low temperatures at high altitudes.

The leather flight helmet worn by kamikaze pilots was no different from those worn by ordinary pilots during World War II. It was made of soft leather and had ear flaps, a chin strap and goggles. The helmet was designed to protect the head from the cold and low air pressure at high altitudes, which could lead to unconsciousness.

Kamikaze pilots were trained to steer their planes directly at the target by making the necessary course corrections with their feet. The helmet remained on the pilot's head despite the impact of the collision, which ensured that his body could be identified if necessary.

However, there was another reason why kamikaze pilots wore helmets. Pilots often received a blood-stained doll as a symbol of good luck from their loved ones. The helmet provided a secure place for the doll during the kamikaze flight, ensuring that it would not be lost or damaged during a collision.

In conclusion, kamikaze pilots wore protective helmets mainly to protect against enemy fire and to keep warm. The use of helmets was not unique to kamikaze pilots, as it was common practice among pilots during World War II. However, the helmet also provided a safe place for the blood-stained dolls given to pilots by their loved ones, which were an important source of comfort and a symbol of good luck for pilots during kamikaze flights.