2016 - Battle of Okinawa Documentary, 'Okinawa: The Afterburn' (Documentary Explores the Devastating WWII Battle that Left Okinawa in Ruins)NEW

Remembering the Battle of Okinawa, documentary in Gardena.  To commemorate Irei no Hi (Okinawa's Memorial Day for the lives lost during World War II), the Okinawa Association of America (OAA) will host a special documentary screening on Saturday, June 18, 1:00 PM, at the OAA Center in Gardena. RSVP is required due to limited parking and seating.

Titled "Okinawa: The Afterburn" (Okinawa: Urizun no Ame), this feature-length documentary explores the devastating WWII battle that left Okinawa in ruins. Academy Award nominated director John Junkerman interviews both Okinawan civilian survivors and U.S. WWII veterans, presenting a full scope of the conflict.

The documentary also explores the post-war effects on Okinawa including U.S. occupation, sexual assaults committed by U.S. servicemen against Okinawan girls and women, and the Japanese and U.S. governments' decision to build a new base regardless of opposition by Okinawan government officials and civilians.

In his director's statement, Junkerman commented: "I had a responsibility to convey the reality of Okinawa to the American public and the wider world, which [...] remains still today largely ignorant of that reality."

Gena Hamamoto -- independent film producer (No Más Bebés; The Crumbles) and assistant editor (COPS; Play it Again, Dick) -- will moderate.

This event is part of an ongoing series of educational programs at the OAA. Admission is free for current OAA members and $5 for non-members. RSVP is required: oaamensore@gmail.com or 310-532-1929. The OAA is located at 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena 90247 (in the Yamauchi Building).