The U.S. firebombing of Tokyo in 1945 resulted in over 100,000 deaths, comparable to the atomic bombings that occurred later in the year. The Japanese government has provided little aid or recognition to survivors and victims of the attack, leading elderly survivors to share their stories and push for assistance. Shizuyo Takeuchi, who was 14 at the time of the bombing, is one of those speaking out on behalf of those who died. The bombing destroyed traditional Japanese-style homes and left many homeless. Survivors like Ai Saotome are working to preserve the memories and stories of those affected by the attack, as younger generations may not be aware of these events. Postwar governments have provided support to military veterans and atomic bombing survivors, but civilian victims of firebombings have received no assistance. Efforts to secure government recognition and financial support for civilian survivors have faced obstacles, with proposals for compensation being rejected by Japanese courts. As the 80th anniversary of Japan’s WWII defeat approaches, survivors are making a final push for acknowledgment and aid for those affected by the Tokyo firebombing.
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