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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Okinawa commemorates 61st anniversary of the end of fighting

On June 23, the 61st anniversary of the end of the Battle of Okinawa in the Pacific War, ceremonies were held in various parts of Okinawa to mourn more than 200,000 people who lost their lives in the war.

In Okinawa, where 75 percent of U.S. bases in Japan are still located, residents and municipalities have expressed their strong opposition against the U.S. military realignment plan to further strengthen the function of U.S. bases.

Many bereaved family members of the war dead are concerned about the move to adversely revise the Constitution.

In Itoman City where the last fierce battle was fought, about 4,500 residents took part in a memorial service sponsored by the Prefectural government at the Peace Memorial Park at Mabuni Hill.

Okinawa Governor Inamine Keiichi read a peace declaration. Giving a speech as a guest, Prime Minister Koizumi Jun'ichiro stated that the government will continue to discuss with local municipalities in order to gain their understanding and cooperation so as to give shape to the realignment of the U.S. forces in Japan. Some participants silently raised their fists to express their protest against Koizumi.

"I hate Prime Minister Koizumi because he is trying to start again a war policy that brought us so much misery in the past," said an 89-year-old man who lost his wife and four children in the Battle of Okinawa. He went on to say, "I hope that our children and grandchildren carry on our desire for peace to create a base-free Okinawa and a war-free world."
- Akahata, June 24, 2006