Watch Crusade in the Pacific: At Japan's Doorstep - Okinawa

Crusade in the Pacific: At Japan's Doorstep - Okinawa is a 1951 documentary film directed by William H. Pine and narrated by Westbrook Van Voorhis. It is part of the seven-part series Crusade in the Pacific, which covers the Pacific War during World War II. The film focuses on the Battle of Okinawa, which was fought from April to June 1945 on the Japanese island of Okinawa. It was the last major battle of the Pacific War and is considered one of the bloodiest battles of the entire war, with over 150,000 casualties on both sides.

The film begins with a brief history of Okinawa, which was annexed by Japan in 1879 but still retained its own unique culture and language. It then covers the American preparations for the invasion of Okinawa, including the use of propaganda leaflets dropped from planes to convince the Japanese soldiers to surrender.

The invasion begins on April 1, 1945, with the largest amphibious assault of the Pacific War. The film shows shocking footage of the initial landing and the fierce resistance from the Japanese defenders, who had prepared intricate defensive positions and were determined to fight to the death.

The film then follows the progress of the American forces as they traverse the treacherous terrain of Okinawa, facing constant attacks from Japanese soldiers hidden in caves and bunkers. The American troops are also faced with the difficult task of pacifying the civilian population, who are caught in the crossfire and often used as human shields by the Japanese.

The film includes interviews with American soldiers who fought in the battle, as well as Japanese prisoners of war who provide a unique perspective on the war from the enemy's side. It also shows the devastating effects of the battle on the civilian population, with footage of destroyed homes and injured civilians.

As the battle drags on, the film shows how the American troops begin to suffer from exhaustion and mental breakdowns, with many soldiers resorting to using drugs to stay awake and alert. Despite these challenges, the American forces eventually break through the Japanese defenses and capture the capital city of Naha.

The film ends with the aftermath of the battle, showing the scale of the destruction and the massive number of casualties on both sides. It also includes footage of the surrender of the Japanese military in Okinawa, which marked the end of the battle and the beginning of the end of World War II.

Overall, Crusade in the Pacific: At Japan's Doorstep - Okinawa is a powerful and sobering documentary that provides a vivid and unflinching portrayal of one of the most brutal battles of World War II. Through its use of archive footage, interviews, and narration, the film brings to life the horror and tragedy of war, while also honoring the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in it.