Admirals also greatly respect dedication and perseverance and you come in high on both counts Peabody
I love the Kongo too, and truly the Battleship was the heart of the IJN in both spirit and intent. They yearned for a big ship battle to slug out the naval contest but never really got it, tho almost...during the attacks on Leyte Gulf... but sadly the wonderful battleship of the IJN were picked off one by one by mostly air attacks and many in home waters. I would love to see her in action.
Don't applogize about the demands of your life, that comes first, I totaly understand and all of us do too. If and when things can get wrapped up with the IJN campaign, great, but truly these things happen if and when they are supposed to. The very best naval commanders and captains know you just cant force fate and destiny, you just do your duty and trust in the outcome.