Remembering Okinawa: 65 Years Later

Three U.S. Marines who fought in the pivotal, last battle of World War II will participate in a discussion and film program on Sunday afternoon, April 18, at 2 p.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 Oakton St.

Charles Matz, Ken Radnitzer, and Dick Vana will recall their thoughts on the eve of the war’s largest amphibious invasion on April 1, 1945. Library patrons will then have the opportunity to view the 45-minute film, Okinawa: the Last Battle. The documentary treats the heroic sacrifices made by America’s armed forces during the bloody 82-day campaign to set the stage for ending the war.

After the screening, refreshments will be served, and the Marines will be joined by
U. S. Navy veterans to answer questions from the audience. All of the veterans are participants in the Veterans History Project at the Niles Public Library. Their transcripts can be read and heard over the library’s website at

www.nileslibrary.org