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 M�s Beb�s; 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: [email protected] or 310-532-1929. The OAA is located at 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena 90247 (in the Yamauchi Building).