#Japan #Okinawa #Pal System #Peace Walk

Reflecting on the Past to Promote Peace

On June 23, 2026, a significant event took place in Okinawa as the Pal System Federation, led by Chairman Haruki Shibusawa, joined about 70 participants from various co-ops and local residents for the 34th Family Peace Walk. This particular day is remembered as "Irei no Hi" (Day of Remembrance), marking the end of the brutal Okinawa Battles during World War II. Participants marched through Itoman City, one of the last battlegrounds of the war, to honor the victims and reflect on the importance of peace.

A Day Dedicated to Remembering the Victims

The Family Peace Walk was specifically held on June 23rd, designated as Irei no Hi by the Okinawa Prefectural Government. This day marks the point at which organized combat by the Japanese forces ceased, and prayer services are held across the prefecture to honor those who lost their lives during the conflict.

The participants, including 12 members from the Pal System Federation and representatives from 13 other organizations, started their march from the Multi-purpose Square at the Peace Creation Forest Park in Itoman. The approximately 3-kilometer route allowed participants to visit significant sites, including the ruins where families once lived, natural caves that served as shelters, and memorial towers dedicated to those lost in the war. Carrying banners inscribed with peace messages collected from coworkers, participants learned about the historical context from local residents during the 90-minute march amid a sweltering temperature nearing 30 degrees Celsius. They contemplated the harrowing experiences faced by those who lived through the war.

Remembering the Last Battleground

One notable stop along the march was the Maesuu Beach, recognized as the site of the last fierce fighting during the Okinawa campaign. On this beach, Japanese soldiers and civilians sought refuge as they were cornered by U.S. forces, while horrors erupted from all directions as artillery fire closed in from land and aggression from sea vessels remained a constant threat from above. The participants paused at noon to observe a moment of silence for one minute, honoring those who perished in these tumultuous times.

Visiting War Sites for Education

The day before the Peace Walk, participants visited historical sites surrounding Henoko, where discussions on new base construction continue to take place. They also explored the Kakake High Point Park where they saw damage marks and sturdy concrete bunkers known as