Free Screening + Talk: “Paper Lanterns” 80th Anniversary (Stanford)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945, we invite you to a special screening of the documentary Paper Lanterns. This event pays tribute to those impacted and to remember the enduring efforts toward peace and reconciliation. Following the film, a discussion will be held with Paper Lanterns’ producer Nobuko Saito Cleary and US-ATMC Director Dr. Richard Dasher. The program also includes video messages from the Mayor of Hiroshima Kazumi Matsui, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan John V. Roos, and Mr. Shigeaki Mori, whose story is central to the film. A short video by Director Barry Frechette will offer insights into the making of the film and lessons learned.

The event also features a photography exhibit of images provided by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles and concludes with a networking reception over light refreshments.

Paper Lanterns is based on the inspiring story of Shigeaki Mori, a Japanese atomic bomb survivor from Hiroshima, who dedicated his life to sharing the stories of Normand Brissette, Ralph Neal, and ten other American prisoners of war (POWs) who were killed by the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, in Hiroshima. Those Americans were held at the Hiroshima Military Police Headquarters since July 28 that year, when they were shot down during a bomb raid. For decades, many of the families of those 12 Americans were never informed regarding the fates of their loved ones. Mr. Mori has spent several decades researching about, and obtaining official recognition for, those U.S. aviators. Thanks to his tireless efforts, the names of those 12 Americans are now included in the Hiroshima Peace Museum.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.