In recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Attu, a lineup of art shows, panel discussions, films and other events will be held in various Anchorage venues from May 17 to May 19. All events are free and open to the public. Here’s a preview:
May 17: Film premiere of “When the Fog Clears,” directed by award-winning Japanese film director Tadashi Ogawa, seeks to make the “forgotten war” unforgettable. Featuring Kiska and Attu Island, which were occupied by Japan in World War II. Location: University of Alaska Anchorage Fine Arts Bldg., 2 to 4 p.m.
May 17: Opening reception for “Reflections on Attu Art Show, 6:30 p.m. at Loussac Library. The exhibit will remain on show through June 17, 2018.
May 18: Attu descendants luncheon, 11:30 a.m. at Aleutian Pribilof Islands Assoc. A panel of descendants and expert basket weavers will discuss Attu village and share their experiences from a 2017 visit to the former village site. Bring a dish to share.
May 19: Attu Villagers and Soldiers: Panel discussion, 2 p.m. at Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association. Join this panel of survivors and descendants from the Village of Attu, U.S. soldiers and Japanese soldiers to gain a unique perspective on the Battle of Attu
May 18: “Japanese Perspective on WWII in the Aleutians,” Anchorage Museum, 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 6). Speakers explore Japan’s military strategy and soldiers’ experiences during the Battle of Attu in 1943.
May 19: “Valor in the Pacific: The Battle of Attu,” at Alaska Aviation Museum, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A full day of fly-ins, films and displays. View the Battle of Attu special exhibition, which will be on display through Sept. 2018. Food available for purchase.
For more information on these events, visit http://www.attu75.org.
