My girlfriend and I kept our 14-year-old son out of school recently to visit the Kamikaze Survivors Reunion in Everett. We felt that this would be an educational experience for him and it turned out to be quite an education for us as well.
We arrived during the lunch break so we had some time to browse the many photos and read some of the stories that lined the hallway. As we read, the picture became clearer. We have all heard about kamikaze pilots, but it seems to me that they were always downplayed as a mere hindrance and more of a psychological weapon than one that did much damage. Apparently that was just American government propaganda designed to keep the American public behind the war and to keep the Japanese in the dark about how much damage was actually done (understandable during a time of war).
The massive damage and scenes of destruction and carnage, coupled with the stories written about the attacks told another story altogether. We spent some time listening to conversations between veterans and what they went through. We sat in and listed to stories told after lunch as well. There were not a lot of dry eyes in the room as men told the stories of heroism and courage. I realized that I would probably never again sit in a room that was so full of heroes. I would have loved to have said a word or two myself, but I was a bit choked up as well.
Those who forget history are condemned to repeat it. We are the next generation. If the American government chooses to forget what happened during those battles, we will not. The stories are being told, we are listening and we will never forget.
I was born at a fortunate time. I was too young for Vietnam and too old for the Gulf War and others. I have led a life of relative peace, paid for by the blood and valor of the men who went before me, many who were here in Everett last weekend. The words will never be enough, but they need to be said. Thank you.
Everett
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