Baba Nobufusa
One of Takeda Shingen's senior retainers, Nobufusa (also known as Nobuharu) was the son of Baba Torasada and served three generations of Takeda daimyô – Nobutora, Shingen, and Katsuyori. He was present at most of his Shingen's battles, notably, Kawanakajima (1555,1561, et cetera), Odawara/Mimasetoge (1569), and Mikatagahara (1572). He was awarded Fukashi castle in Shinano in 1550, and inherited the title of Mino no kami after Hara Toratane died in 1564. Nobufusa fell out of favor somewhat with Takeda Katsuyori, but, despite personal objections, led his men in a charge against Oda Nobunaga's left at the Battle of Nagashino on 29 June 1575. Nobuharu survived the morning's slaughter (some 10,000 Takeda warriors and many of his collegues fell) and protected Katsuyori's retreat across the Kansagawa. Nobuharu then turned with his remaining troops and was cut down by the enemy.
According to the Koyo Gunkan, Nobuharu was consulted by Shingen on many important matters and was considered fudai. Prior to Nagashino, he is reputed to have fought in 21 battles without receiving a single wound. He figures as one of the better-known members of Takeda Shingen's '24 Generals'.
