Battle of Okinawa
By: Ryan Smith
Back Round Information
The Battle of Okinawa was a bloody battle for both sides, the US and Japan. This was a major battle that could make or break this war. The US wanted to use this land to destroy what was left of Japans merchant ships and use the active airfields to bomb the enemy. The island was commanded by Lieutenant- General Ushijima who had been ordered to protect that island with all he has. Ushijima used Kamikazes as his tactical plan on the US, but the US took down 3/4 of them but the ones that got through did a lot of damage to the defenseless american carrier fleets. The US commander was Lieutenant- General Simon Bolivar Buckner. His Strategy was to bomb Lieutenant- General Ushijima to wear him down, but there was a risk that left him vulnerable, but he got lucky and Ushijima didn't see this flaw. He took this risk so he could lead an infantry attack from two sides and finish him off, which payed off and he won the war.
Event Information
Battle of Okinawa
When?
Sunday, Apr 1, 1945, 12:00 AM
Where?
Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Battle of Okinawa
Lieutenant-General Simon Bolivar Buckner
July 18, 1886 - June 18, 1945. Simon worked his way up the food chain and ended up being a general in WW2. Previously he commanded many battles and was appointed countless awards for his skills and bravery. Simon died on one of the few days left in the Okinawa war. He was the highest ranking army officer during WW2 and was promoted again after his victory at the Battle of Okinawa
Lieutenant- General Ushijima
July 31, 1887 - June 22, 1945. Ushijima was a native of Kagoshima in southern Japan. Also like Simon he worked his way up fighting in his share of battles and commanding them, which led to him being told to protect the island of Okinawa with his life.