Okinawa Marks 80 Years Since WWII Battle With Memorials, Peace Calls

Okinawa marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Okinawa with solemn ceremonies emphasizing peace and remembrance of the immense suffering during one of World War II's deadliest battles. Governor Denny Tamaki and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba led memorials at Peace Memorial Park, honoring the more than 240,000 lives lost, including many civilians, and reaffirming Okinawa's commitment to peace amid growing global tensions, especially concerning Taiwan. The island continues to bear the heavy burden of hosting 70% of U.S. military facilities in Japan, a point highlighted by Tamaki who criticized ongoing base expansions and called for alternatives to reduce the military footprint. The ceremonies featured reflections on the tragic legacy of war through poetry and speeches, with calls for disarmament and historical memory to inform future peace efforts. Attendees, including survivors and international dignitaries, underscored Okinawa's resilience and the importance of learning from its wartime past to avoid repeating history. Both Japanese and U.S. officials emphasized the need to honor the sacrifices made and work towards global peace.