A former US Marine Corps officer and NCIS agent who brings his real-world investigative experience to the book. He worked as a technical advisor on NCIS, where he met Mark Harmon.

A Japanese-American interpreter and translator for Naval Intelligence, whose expertise proved valuable during the critical moments around Pearl Harbor. His story is highlighted in the book, celebrating his contributions.

Douglas Wada’s father, known for his work as a skilled miyadaiku carpenter of Shinto shrines. Despite injuries sustained during the war, he is remembered for his community influence and craftsmanship in Hawaii.

An FBI agent assigned to Honolulu before the Pearl Harbor attack. Dedicated to assessing Japanese-American loyalty, he balances skepticism and thorough intelligence work in his role.

A Navy intelligence officer involved in undercover operations in Hawaii, crucial for recruiting Douglas Wada due to his expertise in Japanese culture. He later contributes important reports on Japanese American loyalty.

A driver for the Japanese spy, Takeo Yoshikawa. Post-war, he is not charged for his involvement in espionage activities during the lead-up to Pearl Harbor.

A Japanese-American Army Intelligence officer who collaborates with Douglas Wada on translations and interpretations. He is recognized for advocating for Nisei rights and posthumously inducted into the Military Intelligence Corps Hall of Fame.

A prominent lawyer and advocate for Japanese American rights, with significant contributions to the community in Hawaii. He holds numerous pioneering roles, including as president of the Hawaii Bar Association.

A former Imperial Navy ensign who becomes a pivotal spy for Japan in Hawaii, operating under diplomatic cover. He collects crucial intelligence on the US Pacific Fleet before the Pearl Harbor attack.

A Nazi spy in Hawaii providing aid to Japan. Although sentenced to death, his sentence is commuted, and he is deported after the war.

A Navy officer who heads Naval Intelligence in Hawaii, known for his decisive unauthorized action to bug phones at the Japanese consulate, garnering valuable intelligence.

A Navy Captain succeeding Captain Hart in Hawaii, warned about the lack of coordination among agencies working on the “Japanese Problem.”

The successor to Lieutenant Commander Kenneth D. Ringle in Hawaii’s Naval Intelligence, continuing Ringle’s work.

The Japanese Consul General in Hawaii, operating during the tense period just before the Pearl Harbor attack. He oversees espionage activities at the consulate, including those of Takeo Yoshikawa.

The 123rd Emperor of Japan known for his short reign impacted by poor health. His tenure was primarily during Japan's modernization era before passing away in 1926.

Reigning Emperor during WWII, Hirohito was involved in Japan's war activities and decisions but is subject to varying interpretations regarding his wartime role.

An espionage group operated by Itaru Tachibana with members in the US, ultimately discovered and dismantled by a raid in Los Angeles. Its exposure increased public distrust of Japanese Americans.