The battle of Okinawa exhibit
is by far the best example of Okinawa War memorials and pre-war Okinawa.
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The Battle of Okinawa Historical Exhibit
is located on Camp Kinser, in Building 107. The Exhibit has been
made possible by the dedicated years of service of David Davenport, a former
Marine. He has been scouring Okinawa for the past 20 years and is
sharing his history with you. If
you see nothing else while visiting Okinawa,
you should not miss this site. It provides a very diverse view of
what actually happened during the Battle for Okinawa which began, 26 March
1945.
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Visit the 44th Mixed Brigade.
It is a great example of a natural cave used by the Japanese during the
war.
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One of the many caves and historical sites
to visit while on Okinawa. The 44th Mixed Brigade fiercely resisted
the America military during the Battle of Okinawa. The cave
system is natural and enhanced by the Japanese. You can get a real
sense of what life was like for the Japanese soldier.
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Hacksaw ridge provides a
view of the island that is unsurpassed. It sits on high above much
of the surrounding area. Some of the worst battle's were fought
here.
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Hacksaw Ridge was one of the most fortified
positions on Okinawa which the American military had to overcome. The Japanese
forces had tremendous ground personnel there and plenty of time to fortify
their position. It was one of the last major strongholds of the battle
for Okinawa.
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A most interesting site,
this "LION DOG". monolith visit is free
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The Lion Dog or "Shi Shi," is one of only
a few structures to survive the intense fighting of the Battle of
Okinawa. The Lion Dog was erected during the 14th Century as a symbol
to protect the people of Okinawa. In this page you can see several
photos depicting modern Lion Dogs. These are probably one of the
most popular photos you will find identified with Okinawa.
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The Japanese Navy Underground
Headquarters is a must see - the actual tour leave you with a feeling of
awe.
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The tunnel system was built by hand by
the Japanese Navy for their Headquarters and is nothing short of incredible.
The length and depth of this tunnel is amazing.
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Shuri Castle park is a large
site that can fill your entire day - A great family outing.
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At the Castle Park you will find hundreds
of years of history for the Okinawan people. Shuri Castle,
was entirely destroyed during the battle for Okinawa. In the last
several years it has been reconstructed and is now a popular tourist attraction.
During the battle, the American Navy bombed the walls from Naval ships
from off the coast with all their might without success.
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I saved the best for last.
Okinawan Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum - You will leave with a great
understanding of the war.
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The Peace Park is a poignant reminder
of what war is about. The granite and marble walls reflect all nations'
military... American, British, Japanese, and civilians involved in the
battle of Okinawa. The park reflects the honor of these fallen men
and women, by following what they believed to be the truth. Some
12,500 Americans, 244,000 Japanese and 120,000 civilians died.
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