On this day 80 years ago, victory was wrested from the depths of hell when American forces triumphed over the Imperial Japanese Army in the Battle of Okinawa—a brutal and blood-soaked triumph that was the single costliest victory in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
On April 1, 1945, American forces approached the Japanese island of Okinawa expecting a hard-fought but swift battle to secure the island as a vital airbase for the Allies. Instead, they were met with what was later termed the “Typhoon of Steel”—kamikaze attacks from the air and sea, and Japanese soldiers deeply entrenched in a system of caves, tunnels, and mountain redoubts, committed to fight to the bitter end. For weeks, our Soldiers, Marines, and Sailors endured a prolonged and gruesome battle of attrition, punctuated by relentless ambushes in the rain and mud and unthinkable psychological torment. The Battle of Okinawa demonstrated to the world that, while on the back foot, the Japanese would not easily surrender, and that victory would come at an astounding cost.
Throughout nearly 3 months of grueling warfare, more than 180,000 American service members withstood horrors beyond imagination to secure Okinawa Island. By the time the Allies prevailed on June 22, 1945, more than 12,000 Americans had perished, with tens of thousands more wounded. Months later, on September 2, Japan surrendered unconditionally—finally ending the bloodiest war in the history of the world.
Today, we honor the grit, courage, and unwavering tenacity of every American warrior who withstood unbearable carnage to bring the Allied forces to victory over the forces of imperialism. Their service and sacrifice, along with that of their fellow brothers in arms, are a tribute to the selflessness and stalwart bravery of their generation—the Greatest Generation. The legacy of that sacrifice includes our alliance with Japan—forged after that terrible conflict—that embodies our shared commitment to freedom and openness, which is a beacon for the world. In southern Okinawa, the Cornerstone of Peace monument rests on the site where the fighting ended, serving as a somber reminder that the shared tragedy of war and loss of life touches every generation. Every American soul inscribed on that black granite wall will be forever remembered as an immortal champion of valor, liberty, and sacrifice.
On this 80th anniversary of the Battle of Okinawa, our Nation pays tribute to the fearless young warriors who endured unimaginable devastation—and we honor those who valiantly laid down their lives for the sacred causes of freedom, sovereignty, and human dignity.