South to Peace Prayer Park

We made trips to the south part of the island to Okinawa World, Kokusai Street, and Shuri Castle, but this was our most southern stop.

"THE CORNERSTONE OF PEACE"
A Monument Commemorating Those Who Died in the Battle of Okinawa

The park is a beautiful setting covering acres with large memorials and monuments, but the heart of the park are the name walls.

The names of all who died on the island during the battle are carved into these walls.

A very sweet lady from Rodney's home church lost her first husband, Avon Eugene Morgan, in this battle and we found his name on the wall and took pictures for her.

These Japanese children on a field trip examining the "Eternal Flame." But, yes, it's a fountain.

Pacific Ocean <==> East China Sea

A few gorgeous views from the park.

Monument of Himeyuri

Being on our own battle sites tour and since Rachel is a nurse, we stopped at this monument. In a nutshell--this is a cave used during the war as a hideout/hospital. Young Japanese girls were used as "nurses" and doctor/surgeon assistants. Many of them lost their lives during the encounter and this museum has been established in their memory to educate future generations of the price of war. It was very well done and a very sobering experience, but one we were all glad we were able to visit. 

Japanese Naval Underground Headquarters

Rachel looking into the "wardroom."

Rodney examining the pick-ax marks on the wall where they dug the cave.

Ryukyu Glass Village

Along the road from Peace Park to the Himeyuri Monument is one of the glass-blowing factories. 

And like most "tourist" stops here, it wouldn't be complete without a picture spot!!

The "frame" and wall are decorated with pieces of glass.