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The Navy said it will join Honolulu and Nagaoka, Japan, in commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II in the Pacific on Aug. 15 with Pearl Harbor’s first-ever display of Nagaoka fireworks on Ford Island to honor the memory of the war’s victims and to celebrate 70 years of peace and friendship.
Nagaoka and Honolulu, sister cities since 2012, share the bond of war experience, the Navy said. Nagaoka is the home of Japanese Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto, who planned the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor.
Nagaoka was bombed by American B-29 bombers in the waning stages of the war. On Aug. 14, 1945, it was announced that Japan had surrendered unconditionally to the Allies, effectively ending World War II.
"The 70th anniversary of the end of World War II is an opportunity for us to reflect on the service and sacrifice of millions of brave service members who fought in the Pacific Theater, as well as the tragic loss of countless civilian lives," said Navy Capt. Stan Keeve, commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. "I’m very honored to be a part of this commemoration bestowed by Nagaoka city. Their very generous gift of spectacular proprietary fireworks will honor our veterans and serve as a reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice."
The public is invited to the free Aug. 15 events, beginning at 4 p.m. with cultural and educational displays and entertainment. The official commemorative program starts at 7 p.m. with guest speakers, a youth peace summit declaration, performances by a Nagaoka children’s choir and the HEARTS Hawaii choir, and a special performance of the song "Jupiter" by Japanese singer-songwriter Ayaka Hirahara.
The event will culminate in the Nagaoka fireworks show at 8 p.m. The public will be allowed access to Ford Island, with parking available on a first-come, first-served basis, the Navy said.
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