People in Japan's southern prefecture of Okinawa are observing the 78th anniversary of one of the deadliest battles of World War Two. The battle, which was between the now-defunct Imperial Japanese military and US forces, claimed more than 200,000 lives.

Residents of the islands are paying tribute to those who lost their lives. A ceremony was held on Friday at Peace Memorial Park in the city of Itoman, the site of the final battle. Hundreds of people attended the ceremony and observed a moment of silence. Okinawa recognizes June 23, 1945 as the final day of organized combat.

The governor of Okinawa expressed his commitment to peace. Tamaki Denny said, "We have always known in our souls that it is life itself that is more important than any treasure. We are united, as a people, by the longing for peace. We sincerely believe that it is our noble mission to bear witness to the painful lessons from the countless war experiences and to pass on these messages to future generations."

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio also made a speech.
Kishida said, "The peace and prosperity we enjoy today is built on the sacrifice of our war victims and the pain that the people of Okinawa experienced. Seventy-eight years on, those facts are etched on our hearts, and we bow to the victims in serenity with a strong determination never to repeat the horror of war."

Okinawa hosts about 70 percent of the US military facilities in the country. Prime Minister Kishida has pledged to do all he can to reduce the burden that this has placed on the prefecture.