A last-minute journey marked the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion.
On Tuesday, three Japanese Shinto priests arrived at the American Armor Museum in Long Island following an invitation to a military-themed ceremony.
They quickly made their way from Japan after the invitation came in unexpectedly.
“I wanted to pray purely,” Takada expressed, with a translator by his side, while reflecting on the significance of VJ Day, marking Japan’s surrender.
“It’s tough to articulate [feelings about WWII]. In short… harmony is now the most valuable concept,” he added.
The priests organized their trip from Fukuoka, Japan, after realizing that the museum’s presentation of the war didn’t solely focus on notions of victory or defeat.
“We recognized this milestone and pondered how to present it as a narrative about peace,” said Gary Lewi, a representative of the Nassau County Institute, which showcases historic military vehicles.
“We really felt Japan’s absence at this event,” he stated.
After a swift search, they managed to connect with the Miyajidake shrine, situated on Kyushu Island, near Nagasaki.
“They wanted to come,” Lewi said, noting how quickly the priests responded despite the challenges involved.
The gathering included veterans alongside heavy military equipment, a stark reminder of the past, while others in more ceremonial attire symbolized the ongoing unity and reconciliation between the U.S. and Japan.
During the gathering, the priests held a solemn ceremony, utilizing traditional Japanese wind instruments, marking the end of the conflict.
“Shinto recognizes multiple gods. When we perform this ceremony, the gods are present,” Takada noted.
“We’re so happy to be here,” he concluded.
Dr. Sato Eriko, head of the Asian and Asian American Studies Bureau at Stony Brook University, remarked that students continue to show strong interest in Japan’s transformative period post-war.
As General Douglas MacArthur suggested, Sato added that young people strive to learn through conflict, aiming to connect with those who might appear different, speak various languages, or hold diverse beliefs.
“Ultimately, we hope to find common humanity,” she asserted.
