Original subtitles

Toei Productions.

Tower of the Lilies.

Screenplay Yoko Mizuki.

Starring.

Teachers Keiko Tsushima, Eiji Okada, Kinzo Shin Taiji Tonoyama, Shunji Kasuga, Kanda Takashi.

Students Kyoko Kagawa, Chieko Seki.

Miki Odagiri, Kaneko Iwasaki, Setsuko Kawaguchi, Misako Watanabe.

Army Hospital Staff Susumu Fujita, Yasumi Hara, Yoshi Kato Koichi Hayashi, Izumi Hara, Tsumako Usuda.

Director Tadashi Imai.

March 24, 1945 Okinawa.

They're attacking! They've started attacking!

They're about to reach land.

Okinawa Shihan School Girls Division.

Still ticking.

Emergency Items.

We'll never finish in an hour.

Just take whatever possible.

Take only the important items.

The students haven't returned from the anti-aircraft range yet.

They should have received notification.

Will they return in time?

The enemy is attacking sooner than expected.

It's now time we serve our country.

Will they really land here?

I hear they draw close to land as a tactic to lure us in.

It's been 6 months since Saipan was conquered.

Only 600 km to the Japanese mainland.

Korea and Taiwan are also 600 km away.

They're so close.

We must stop them here and protect the mainland at all costs,

even if we Okinawans must sacrifice our lives.

Victory cannot be achieved without sacrifices.

Far away we see the hill of Shuri Castle.

In the refreshing pine-scented winds.

The roof stands high.

Here is our beloved school where we study.

Friends, precious friends.

On the double! Friends, precious friends.

On the double!

On the double!

Run to the dormitory, everyone.

Miss Miyagi, prepare to depart. We meet at the group leader's home at 1900 hr.

Please help with transport of patients.

My wife gave birth this morning. I'm going to see her now. - Please do.

Mr. Tokuda said he was going home.

Please... Okay, Tsuyu?

Please come with me to Kunigami. I beg you.

Please go to Kunigami and see your grandma.

Please.

Your father was drafted into the Defense Corps.

I cannot survive alone with the baby.

Please! Tsuyu!

I must go. Students must follow school orders.

Don't stop me. I'm going now.

You're not in good health, Tsuyu!

You don't want them calling me a coward!

Tsuyuko!

Tamai.

You should go home quickly and pack.

I'm not finished here.

There's no one left at your place.

My wife was about to send a message to you.

- The ladies downstairs also left? - The place is completely empty.

Mother!

Mother!

Have you seen Tsuneko Asato?

Is Tsuneko still at the dorm?

Me?

You have a visitor.

How nice!

- Tsune! - Sister!

- Sister! - Oh, Tsun-chan!

Sister, why are they so cheerful?

Hand me more hair pins.

What will you do with so many?

They're too excited.

Those sort of girls are easily attacked.

I'm glad you made it here from Kunigami.

I also stopped by the Shuri Airfield.

I saw Father working with the Defense Corps.

I'm glad I could see you as well.

I'll return home now, rest assured.

You'd be safer traveling at night.

All girls must transport ammunition. Do your best.

Yes, I'll work hard.

Here are candies from Father.

A good-luck charm from Mother.

And a mirror and comb from me.

Thank you.

- Sister. - Yes?

My grandma is also in Kunigami. Have you seen her? Her name is Maeyama.

Up north is rocky coastal area. They are worried about starvation.

Our fathers are both in the Defense Corps.

They were digging at the airfield, weren't they?

My father's the president of a sugar production company.

They all look alike wearing the same clothing.

Everyone gather here!

So long.

- Tamashiro. - Yes?

You'll be late if you don't hurry. Let's go.

- You can stop here. - Take care.

- Be sure to write to us. - I will.

Goodbye.

- You mustn't drink any dirty water. - Do your best!

The American Forces will soon reach land.

By order of Army Headquarters, we move to Haebaru Army Hospital this evening.

Now is the time to fulfill our patriotic duty.

The principal will be assigned to the men's division.

I will be transferred to military headquarters.

In this critical time, perform to your finest abilities and...

valiantly fulfill your duties as members of the Himeyuri Corps.

Attention! Now departing.

Ready. March.

March 25th

26th

27th

28th

29th.

Rotate.

Oh no, it went out!

We need ventilation!

Begin.

On the hilltop flies the Hinomaru flag.

As we look up in admiration,

Our eyes fill with tears of gratitude,

Our hearts burn with desire.

We vow to do our best

until we achieve victory,

until we achieve victory.

How's everyone doing?

Teacher!

You all look fine.

I will now read an announcement from headquarters.

Today's war results:

Our courageous air squadrons attacked the enemy fleet at Kadena,

sinking over ten ships and two destroyers.

In Kerama Bay an enemy warship was damaged by fire.

The enemy is in retreat!

These attacks should end today.

Let's transport the beddings from school in military trucks.

For five straight days we couldn't lie down to sleep.

It's muddy and the air is poor too.

- Hey! - Hello!

I apologize for my absence.

We were about to head over your way.

Headquarters sends word that teachers and staff are to assemble there immediately.

They must have sent word out after I left.

Chief Yamaoka has joined us from Headquarters.

Ta Ta Tan Tan Ta Tan Ta Tan Tan.

We heard that many sardine came to Tanchame beach.

But no, these were aji fish caught in a net.

How lucky. What a surprise!

Our family watched from the beach.

Ta Tan Ta Tan Tan.

Let me use it after you, Granny.

Let me use that red basin to wash my face.

Please do.

Give me the basin.

Allow me, sir.

You can use it after me.

Thank you very much.

The enemy has already landed on Kerama Island.

Our land, sea, and air forces will focus on a united strategy to...

annihilate our enemy which prides itself on material superiority.

During our battle in Okinawa,

we will pursue our most effective strategy, Operation Heaven ♪1.

I want all of you to rise to the occasion.

From Bunker 18, I'm here pick up the food.

- How many in your bunker? - 43.

Here, take it.

From Bunker 15, I'm here pick up the food. 35 men.

I hear we're having a graduation ceremony tonight.

- A graduation? - Is everyone graduating?

Don't worry. We won't have a ceremony without you.

We could have celebrated back home if they held it before we left.

We could have shown our diplomas to our parents.

We're lucky we're getting one. We didn't even have to study for it.

I brought only the girls in their lower years.

Hurry. Hurry.

Mr. Tokuda.

My research papers are in the drawer...

What sort of papers?

The development and evolutionary theory of British economic policy.

Never mind.

I'll bring it. Your long years of research...

Forget it. You shouldn't be studying the enemy's economy now.

Uh, never mind.

Hurry.

Wait!

Who gave you permission to use the truck?

Get off! We're using it for patient transport.

Get off. Who gave you permission?

Army Doctor Oka.

It tastes sweet. This will help you see better in the dark.

Medicine for your eyes?

Yes, pilots take it.

Will we be able to see like a cat at night?

That's what I've heard, but it's not very effective.

It has other applications too. Try it.

How is it?

It's sweet.

It's like candy substitute.

Girls won't work without their sweets.

My daughter studies harder after eating a bar of chocolate.

I wonder what she's eating in place of it.

You want to see her picture?

She's right about your age.

She looks exactly like Uehara.

Yes, she does.

Where's your father?

- He died. - He was killed in Tongzhou.

So you came here with your mother?

Yes, we moved to my grandmother's home in Naha.

But they died in a Naha air raid.

The one on October 10?

You're all alone?

I have a younger sister.

She's in her 2nd year, though Miss Miyagi let her join our group.

Move out.

So just the two of us will go by foot?

Sure, it's only 4 km away.

I'll go too and pick up my diploma.

- Me, too. - I'll go, too.

A flare bomb! Canon fire is next! Take cover!

Make a run for it now.

Chiyoko! Hurry!

What happened?

Please go on ahead.

What's the matter? Are you hurt?

What's the matter?

Walk. Hurry.

I can't walk! Teacher, I can't walk!

Why not?

I somehow...

You're walking better.

It's nothing at all.

It happens to all women.

It surprised you.

I forgot all about that.

Let's move a little faster.

The area is sealed off.

They're preparing for the enemy's arrival. Let's hurry.

Miss Miyagi, We will return ahead of you.

We look up to our teachers.

So grateful for their kindness.

The years on the playground.

Have passed so quickly.

We look back.

On those precious days.

But now we must part.

And say good-bye.

The friendship and kindness.

Shown every day.

Will stay with us.

The rest of our lives.

We'll fend for ourselves,

Work hard and make our names.

But now we must part.

And say good-bye.

Due to extraordinary circumstances,

please accept your diplomas, then return to your duties.

Group 5, Yasutomi Yoshiko.

Group 3. Group 4.

Group 5 - Returning to post.

Group 6, Fumi Uehara.

Mr. Tamai!

Thank you so much for getting my research papers.

Nurse, please remove the worms in my ears.

April 29.

Next.

Nurse, nurse.

Time to urinate?

Fool! A soldier shouldn't cry.

Be quicker. Speed it up.

Any medicine left?

No, we're out.

- Any more gauze? - We're out.

We're out?

We haven't nearly enough bandages for all our patients.

I'll make one more incision on this patient.

Hold him down.

We are under attack! Man your posts!

Do you defy my order?

Nurse.

Save me, nurse.

You idiot.

Hurry up.

He's crazy.

Hold him down. Hurry.

Aren't there any attending soldiers?

They were called back last night.

- All of them? - Yes.

Hold him securely.

A nurse shouldn't faint at the sight of blood.

Nurse, nurse.

The crazy man above peed on me!

I want to beat him dead.

Nurse.

You mustn't do that.

It's contaminated. You'll get diarrhea.

Thanks. That was good.

I have no other wishes.

Thank you so much.

Hail to the Empire...

Head Nurse!

Take his body away. Quickly.

Teacher.

Is everything all right?

Everyone looks okay.

I'm glad.

Your replacements won't be coming, so take 30 minutes naps in turn.

We have no choice.

I brought everyone's backpacks.

Thank you.

I have to leave now before the air raids begin.

Please look after my students.

Do you have any message for Chiyoko?

No, Ma'am.

I'll let you know of any changes.

I'll make your beds here.

Teacher!

Teacher!

Are you heading to Bunker 16?

Hurry. An air attack is coming soon.

Miss Asato.

Are you having a problem... like the one back there?

Talk to me anytime you have a problem.

I'll do whatever I can.

We haven't had that at all due to the air bombings.

Well, help each other out when you do have a problem with that.

There's a vacancy. One of us can go in!

We've been waiting forever, you idiot!

- Nurse... water... please give me water. - We'll bring some soon.

I'll draw up some.

Yoneko! Hurry!

Yoneko!

Heave Ho!

Heave Ho!

Heave Ho! Heave Ho!

Hold tight and don't drop any!

Hit the dirt!

Do we have enough?

Only enough for one meal. They'll have to skip breakfast.

What about your portions?

We can go without food until tomorrow morning.

There's none left when you come late.

The patients are starving.

I feel bad giving just one tiny rice ball to each patient.

What should we do?

Let's ask Sergeant Hayashi to tell them.

Good idea.

You ask him, Manami.

Yes, you should ask him.

Why?

Sergeant Hayashi called you an unwashed beauty, right?

And you told him your face was dirty from the smoky lamp.

You shouldn't eat the rice.

That's a no-no!

Be quiet. They'll hear you from their planes.

See? They heard you.

They're here.

Water...

Please give me some water.

Give me some water.

You'll get diarrhea drinking this muddy water.

Get it from the east well.

And empty my pee can.

Also the patients bedpans.

They're flying all around us today.

Doesn't matter where you are if it's your turn to get hit.

I guess we'll go to the east well for water.

We have to empty his pee can too.

That selfish jerk.

He should just empty it himself.

We can't have any more patients with diarrhea.

I'm going now.

Wait up, Atsuko.

Food.

Following hospital provisions policy, we have decided...

to ration our food supplies, so be satisfied with this.

We will soon announce yesterday's war results.

Our combined naval and air fleets attacked the enemy near...

Zanba Point and Kadena, according to info received last night.

The results were much better than expected... I think.

I want you to give me a big one.

It's rotten. What a waste.

Please feed me through a rubber hose.

I've asked before but...

Can we have him drink milk through a rubber hose?

We don't have a rubber hose or milk either.

I'll bring you some rice porridge first thing tomorrow.

Please be patient a little longer.

I'm sorry. I'll work it out.

Look out!

What a fool to kill himself.

Even in the hospital I'm hit with grenade shrapnel.

He's making a fool of us.

Give me all of your hand grenades.

May 25.

It's so hot. No one can sleep.

I guess they're worried about that rumor.

It would be terrible if the Americans were to reach Amakoi Hill.

But someone with binoculars spotted the enemy there.

They were establishing a position.

I'm sure it was a lie.

We wouldn't be sitting here like this if it were true.

It's so quiet tonight.

The silence worries me.

A battle of nerves we're fighting.

Many spies have come here from Saipan, I hear.

They're saying the spies are all Okinawan.

"It's your island so you defend it," they tell us.

"We're here to help defend your islands."

I never expected to hear that.

I see how the students would be angry.

The patients may be driven by pain to speak negatively.

Racial discrimination should have ended by now.

We should be united in our efforts.

There's a long history of subordination here.

Psychological warfare... That's what the enemy wants.

People often complain in times of misfortune.

Misfortune? We've bogged down the enemy for a month since they landed on Kadena.

That's incredible. It never happened before.

They aren't flying. Not a single one of our planes has flown since February.

- Antiaircraft guns as well. - The enemy will know our positions if we fire.

The enemy has a hard time reaching us.

We'll be their next target if Shuri falls.

You've been drawn into their psychological warfare.

You think so?

It's good to be single at a time like this.

I think of my wife, who can't breastfeed our first born baby.

You don't want to look for a wet nurse.

I couldn't send my mother away because she's under 60.

I sent my wife and kids back to Kagoshima.

My mother's living all alone, without any money.

I wish I could've tasted life as a newlywed.

It's sad that all I did in life was study.

You still have hope.

We can be his marriage go-between.

I wonder.

She's cheerful and friendly.

Who?

Leave it to us.

We'll arrange it after the war is over.

In memory of Yoneko Kashiki.

Yoneko. I've come to take your place.

Please watch over us.

How are you?

Hang in there.

Student... Student.

I'll be right there.

Hurry, hurry, hurry!

Shut up.

You needn't worry about her.

Thank you very much.

Here to see her?

Does she need another transfusion?

She could use one more.

I'm also B-type.

She's much better thanks to you.

I'm glad!

Yoshiko.

Thank you.

Will you sing an Okinawan folksong for me?

How about Tanchame?

We heard that many sardine came to a beach at Tanchame.

But no, these were aji fish caught in a net.

How lucky! What a surprise! Our family watched from the beach.

Dr. Oka, they are waiting for you.

The instructors say that you always take a break with the students.

Please be careful.

That owl finally left.

An owl?

She is always awake.

The head nurse owl.

Dr. Oka will soon arrive.

You may leave.

Excuse me.

We've contained the enemy in this 5 km area...

between Kadena and Shuri for a whole month.

They can't reach Haebaru here in two days.

Naval Memorial Day is two days away.

I'm sure we'll launch a strong attack then.

But we were soundly defeated on the Emperor's birthday a short time ago.

We sunk many of their ships, but...

Eight locations reported to headquarters, so...

results were likely exaggerated by eight times.

Impossible.

Tell me why we are surrounded by...

so many enemy ships that we can barely see the ocean?

Strange, isn't it?

They announced just 2 days ago that enemy ships had retreated.

But we hear the roar of enemy cannons every day.

If we're to move, I guess Makabe is the only location.

Ship cannons won't reach there, so the area should look beautiful.

Family houses should still be standing.

We can even take a sunbath.

I'm sorry for being late.

We are discussing the relocation of this hospital.

I don't see how we could move 3000 patients.

Is there a bunker cave we can move to?

Sooner or later we must use this site as a fortress.

If the enemy were to reach Amakoi Hill,

then certainly our army will have to establish a position here.

With Shuri still in our control, they won't be advancing toward us.

Some patients will die during transport.

We should raise a Red Cross flag overhead.

They enemy wouldn't do anything foolish.

Let's have the Defense Corps assist our move.

Hurry. Let's run!

Deputy Doctor!

- What's the matter? - The entrance was hit by a gas bomb.

The condition?

Unknown.

- Let's go. - Yes, sir.

Entering. A message from headquarters.

Command. Commence movement of Haebaru personnel to Makabe at 0400 tomorrow. End.

Poison gas!

Help!

Remain calm.

It's not poisonous gas!

Calm down.

It's not poisonous gas!

Doctor.

Doctor.

It's about Miss Uehara and Miss Kaura.

Bunko and Manami?

They're buried alive near the entrance to Bunker 22.

Any others?

I don't know. The area is caved-in and we can't reach them.

Doctor!

Stop work! Stop work!

The army doctor will now give a command.

By command from headquarters, this hospital will move south towards Makabe.

Prepare immediately. Departure at 0400 tomorrow.

Tell us if you can walk.

- Can you walk? - Yes.

And you?

- And you? - Yes.

Can you walk?

What happened to Miss Miyagi?

She left to assist in the rescue.

Tell Mr. Tamai.

Take cover.

Sister. Sister.

Look out!

Let's go.

Where's Uehara?

Still in there.

Kaura too?

Teacher! Where's Bunko?

Bunko!

Sister!

Sister. Sister.

Get ahold of yourself, Uehara.

I need some light.

Kaura!

Look out!

Hey!

Stop work, everyone.

Stop work. Prepare to move!

Based on our knowledge of current conditions,

the enemy will attack this area either today or tomorrow.

Our unit is preparing for a rapid transfer. Please be ready.

Trucks will provide transportation for those who cannot walk.

We will give an army biscuit and a hand grenade to each of you.

If the situation so requires, as an honorable Imperial soldier...

end your life in glory with your hand grenade.

Although painful to say, please fulfill your duty and obey this order.

Sister. Sister.

Kaura.

- Even if we uncover these rocks... - I'll go look for the doctor once more.

Teacher!

The enemy is moving inland. Please prepare quickly.

The enemy?

I can't believe it.

Miss Miyagi, please give up rescuing her.

Sister!

- Bunko. - Uehara.

Where's Kaura?

Please ask Dr. Shinro.

Let's try again.

Please look after both of them.

Mr. Hashimoto!

Mr. Hashimoto!

Hey!

The enemy!

The enemy. Northward!

Assemble in front of headquarters!

Assemble in front of headquarters!

Assemble in front of headquarters. We leave immediately.

Get a hold of yourself.

Yoshiko, hold onto my shoulders.

Yoshiko, hang in there.

What's wrong?

Hang in there.

Ride on her back.

Leave me here.

Get ahold of yourself.

Just bear it a little longer.

Get moving! Where are the medical tools?

Let's go together.

Get ahold of yourself.

Hurry and move the medical tools.

I'm prepared for the worst.

Please go.

Operation Room.

Hurry! The 2nd Surgical Unit has already left.

Hang in there, Yamamuro.

Mr. Tokuda.

Please operate on her.

It's too late. The instruments are all packed.

The surgical group has left.

Doctor, where are the trucks for the patients?

They're not here yet.

Please operate on her!

You're a soldier. Don't you know we can't make an exception?

She won't survive if she stays back. Please.

The tools are already packed.

You give special treatment to your students.

That's why you teachers are useless.

A hospital should never abandon its patients.

Not only our students, but all who are sick and injured here.

Do you defy my order?

You're just a coolie.

Any more out of you and I'll cut you to pieces!

We're not coolies.

We follow orders from the Minister of Education.

Why you!

Get out of my way!

What's all the commotion?

Everyone, calm down.

I've been through this a few times on the frontline in China.

The truck will pick you up near the well. Don't be late.

Listen. This rope is your lifeline. Hold it tightly.

Each group will be spaced 50m apart.

Teacher!

Mr. Taira! Mr. Taira!

Mr. Nakayama!

Mr. Nakayama!

Who are you?

I've come to see Officer Shimamura.

What is your purpose?

I have a message for him: A girl is still in Bunker 22. Please help.

Dr. Yamane, where is Dr. Shinro?

He already left.

There's a student left behind.

Is it Yasutomi? Sorry, we can't help her.

It might be better for her to stay there.

Mr. Taira.

If you encounter the enemy, don't run away.

The enemy won't shoot at women.

You'll be safe if you raise a white flag or towel.

They may shoot if you run. Just put the flag on top of a medical container.

Where are your patients? Return to your posts.

Taira!

Let's get going.

We'll come back for Yasutomi later.

Please go ahead with the students. I'll soon follow.

Teacher!

Mr. Tokuda!

Yasutomi.

Teacher!

I'll come back to get you.

Wait for me.

I've asked the remaining soldiers to look after you.

I'll leave some biscuits for you.

If... enemy soldiers do come here...

please be prepared as an Okinawan girl should be...

and drink this poison.

Teacher, please take care of yourself.

Mother!

Father!

Forward!

Run!

Any injuries?

Is this the army hospital?

No.

This isn't Makabe?

Where is the hospital's bunker?

I'm with another unit. All bunkers here are closed off.

The hospital's advance squad has already left.

Our unit will follow them.

A little further.

Let's get there before dark.

Cheer up, everyone.

Things will be better at Namihira.

Prepare to depart!

We're lucky there weren't any bombings today.

Be sure to hold onto me, Maeyama.

Yes, Ma'am.

Teacher, may I leave the emergency medicine and return for it later?

Okay. Everyone, we're departing.

On the hilltop flies the Hinomaru flag.

As we look up in admiration,

Our eyes fill with tears of gratitude.

You've managed well, everyone.

We're safe here.

What's the matter?

Hey!

This is another unit's bunker.

They're the Ishi Unit.

This isn't Namihira?

The wrong place?

It looks like Namihira, but it's a different place.

What's our advance unit doing?

They're useless.

Let's march to Itosu tonight even though it's raining.

Just a little further. Everyone, show some spirit and get up!

What's the matter, Shimabukuro?

Get up, Himeyuri Corps. Take the lead. Show some spirit and remember your duties.

Is this your house?

Yes, but we go to a bunker cave every day.

It became flooded, so we came back here.

I'm sorry we entered without your permission.

That's all right.

I wish I could give you something.

I only have one sweet potato.

But it's your nourishment.

Here in Itosu we have little firewood. This area was called, The Empty Land.

I hope your clothes will dry out.

Thank you for your kindness.

We have more firewood in the back, eh?

Yes Grandma, we still have some.

You've done more than enough. We'd like to rest a bit more.

My, they are injured.

These precious girls are having a rough time.

Their parents cannot take care of them.

How do you feel?

I have a surprise. See?

It's cooked. You can eat it.

Hello.

- Mr. Taira. You made it here safely! - And you, too.

Nakayama and the others will stay at a house here. I hope we can soon regroup.

We spent the whole night walking.

- You brought her all the way on a stretcher? - Yes.

I'm really glad.

Teacher, what's going on with Yoshiko?

I asked the defense captain to look after her.

She is truly a fine girl. A student others look up to.

I'll be back.

Mr. Taira.

Bunko, I'm glad you're well.

Where did you go, Bunko?

I made some rice porridge...

and here's a cabbage.

It looks delicious.

Aren't we lucky, Yamamuro?

They just gave us a sweet potato.

We'll eat it with rice porridge and powdered shoyu. It's delicious!

- Isn't it, Teacher? - Yes.

Neither of you have eaten a thing since leaving Haebaru.

You must build your strength.

What a refreshing feeling to wipe your face with this.

Bring the powder shoyu from the student backpacks.

You're looking better now.

Do you feel refreshed?

I'll go and rinse that.

Do Higa's next.

I'll bring back another cabbage.

Teacher.

Are you awake?

Please tell Bunko...

not to work so hard.

She shouldn't feel guilty about our condition.

That's right.

Though she doesn't say so...

she feels we got injured for her sake.

She stayed beside our stretchers the entire time.

Not even once did she take a break.

Teacher, I want to get better soon.

I want to start working again.

I wish I were dead.

I'm so miserable.

We are all together in this, through life and death.

I won't let any of you die alone.

I won't.

Teacher.

The sun! The sun came out, everyone!

Chiyoko, wake up!

How wonderful!

What a wonderful thing, a sunny day.

The serene air after a thunderstorm.

The air so fresh that it already feels like a celebration.

What a wonderful thing, a sunny day.

Sunshine! What a wonderful thing, a sunny day.

But another sun,

The sun! The sun came out! But another sun,

that's brighter still.

It's my own sun.

The sun is out!

Sagara!

A cabbage!

Shoot!

Yamamuro!

I can walk. I can walk.

Teacher. Bunko.

I can walk!

Yamamuro!

Let's celebrate today with a cabbage dish.

Let's do!

I'm ready...

They're making soup.

Soup!

What did she say?

Didn't she say, "soup"?

I doubt it.

Can one of you check on them?

I'd be embarrassed if I misheard.

Didn't she say it was time for lunch?

I'll go and check.

Come here!

Maybe they're pulling our legs.

I'll take a peek.

Blessed are those who believe. Amen.

So sweet!

My stomach is really thankful.

Your stomach has a sweet spot.

I didn't think it would be so tasty.

Girls, you have a rival.

I'll never forget this taste.

Please enjoy your meal.

Cabbage.

We're having a feast today.

Fresh vegetables.

Fresh vegetables.

Mother.

This is all we have.

Let the teachers take care of those.

Eggs for everyone.

We're celebrating Naval Memorial Day one day early.

Won't you join us here, Head Nurse?

Miss Nakazato, do you know the location of each of your patients?

Yes, I do.

Have some food, Dear.

These eggs are for our patients.

Grin and bear it, everyone.

Good idea.

We should show them the eggs after their camphor applications.

Why?

One look at those eggs and the patients may get a heart attack from overjoy.

Even my heart is pounding fast... See?

You're right.

It feels like a 500 kg bomb exploding.

The students are full of energy.

You could have joined their group if you had graduated with them.

You're serving the country well by transporting ammunition, Kogura.

Thank you.

Please relax.

Take care of yourselves.

We'll go now.

Teacher!

Taira!

I'm glad you came.

Everyone in Group 5 is safe.

Thank you.

I'm so glad.

I'm glad.

Miss Miyagi.

Come here, hurry!

Teacher.

I'm going to pull her leg.

Teacher!

Hisada!

Are you with the 3rd Surgical Unit from Itosu?

The 3rd Surgical Unit?

So you can't find Tokuda after he was put on a stretcher?

No.

Don't blame yourself, Taira.

On top of that, I left Yasutomi behind.

I should have tried harder.

I say great things, but in time of action I couldn't help her at all.

I should have never left her under any condition.

I can never forgive myself.

Over here.

News from the Ibaru Bunker Headquarters.

News from Commanding Officer Minami at hospital headquarters.

The defense unit at Haebaru has pulled out completely. End of message.

The defense unit?

- Everyone pulled out? - Yes.

Is that all?

I was told you would understand the message.

What will you do, Mr. Taira?

I'm going to see the commanding defense officer.

I'll ask him to rescue her at Haebaru.

Where is the Haebaru cave headquarters?

I'll go too.

From now?

Take me there.

Yes, sir.

Please take us with you.

Alright. We'll form a rescue team in due time.

We can only take 10 of you at most.

You'll have to return here once more.

Teacher.

I heard you are going on a rescue mission. Please let me join.

I want to look for Mr. Tokuda.

Don't join on a whim and endanger yourselves.

Let's select them later.

Taira.

Over here.

Thank you for coming out here.

Where's the Commanding Defense Officer?

Lieutenant Shimamura already left to search for a cave.

Azama, take a break after you've drawn water.

Didn't you get our message?

No, we didn't.

Uh-oh.

What happened?

The enemy battleships will fire on Itosu tonight.

Your orders are to evacuate.

Itosu?

The camp we're staying at?

And the enemy cannon fire?

But today is Naval Memorial Day.

What about the rescue operation?

- At Haebaru? - Yes.

We want to form a rescue team.

We must do it now.

That's impossible without military assistance.

Where's the hospital director?

- He's here. - Let's see him.

I know it's selfish to ask for troops to rescue a girl student.

You left behind 2000 seriously injured patients.

It may seem excessive to save a single student or teacher.

But as teachers they have a responsibility.

We must resolve the situation.

We'd like nothing better than to save them.

Looking at the current situation... We don't know what will happen next.

Precisely.

We must not suffer more casualties.

Let's leave.

I guess we have no choice but to go on our own?

Excuse me.

According to the commanding officer, the Americans are deploying...

massive forces in the 3rd Surgical Unit's area.

The 3rd Surgical Unit?

At that bunker too?

They're heading our way. Hurry!

You jerks!

3rd Surgical Unit, gather at Kobakura!

3rd Surgical Unit, gather at Kobakura!

Higa! Higa!

I've been hit again!

Hang in there.

Teacher! Teacher!

Please, my grandson...

Please look after my grandson.

I beg you. Please.

Please take him with you!

It's my... final... my dying wish.

3rd Surgical Unit, gather at Kobakura!

Please go there immediately!

Please take my grandson with you.

Kill me! Kill me!

Be quiet.

I beg you, Please.

Come with me, Sonny.

Grandma.

Go with her. Quickly.

18 girls?

Repeat your numbers once more. 12345.

Once more. 1234.

We will now change leaders.

Listen. The leader of Group 5 is Kameya.

Her assistant is Sokabe.

The leader of Group 6 is Hoshina.

Her assistant is Takakuwa.

Listen from where you are!

Everyone prepare to move immediately.

Assemble in front!

Excuse me.

We have orders to leave the stretchers and patients at residential homes.

Leave the stretchers in homes? Who will watch them?

We will transport them when the bunker is ready.

I'll remain here.

We mustn't burden you any further.

There are girls with serious injuries in my group too.

It might be better to move them later.

You could keep watch, Mr. Tamai.

This will never end. Let's do it ourselves.

Group 5, bring the stretchers.

But we have an order...

I will ignore it.

Everyone stay with their group.

Hang in there, Higa.

Departure!

- Teacher. Everyone. We'll go ahead. - Be careful.

We'll depart first and prepare the cave bunker.

See you later.

It's pretty. So pretty!

There's one open bunker in Kobakura.

Let's go.

Father.

This is our shelter. At least allow the sick and injured to stay.

- They're in the way. - Go on. Get out!

This is a hospital shelter.

No. This bunker belongs to the Ishi Unit.

The Ishi Unit?

You must be mistaken.

No, This is the place.

So you want to seize the hospital's shelter?

Why you!

Lieutenant Kimura.

Yeah?

More trouble?

Lieutenant, go look for Captain Oka.

Nevermind them, go in.

- Go in. - Yes, sir.

Bastards. Stop interfering!

Mother.

Why are you doing this?

Because you hang around here. You don't even fight.

Head Nurse.

Get out of our way!

Get a move on it!

Move weapons into the bunker.

All groups begin work immediately.

Where can I find the 2nd Surgical Unit?

Have you seen any girl students?

Are there any girls from the 2nd Surgical Unit?

The 2nd Surgical Unit?

June 17th.

Stop cooking.

We can't cook here anymore. Just carry whatever we can.

Please return home.

I gave you a biscuit, remember?

There's no room for you.

You understand, right?

Can't you understand? Go to a residential house.

Go to a house!

Is there a problem?

I beg you.

Please give me something to eat...

in exchange for this.

Don't give anything to a guy like him!

That's the rice we carried from Headquarters.

It's all we have left.

You can't decide on your own.

I can't believe a soldier would give up his sword.

Anyone who is starving would do the same.

We haven't eaten for 3 days.

It's okay. Give it to him.

No! Let him get it somewhere else.

Please stop arguing.

Why must you behave this way?

The enemy is coming.

Captain.

The enemy has reached Itoman and will come our way next.

Stop spreading rumors.

They can't reach here for at least two days!

They're afraid of us.

They can't get here so easily!

Hurry and enter the bunker, everyone.

Are you the soldier we met earlier?

I brought a little bit.

It's rice.

Please forgive us.

So long.

Next.

Put out the fire!

The enemy is here.

Our losses will be much greater if we all stay in this bunker.

Students and others may escape if they so choose.

Where, Teacher... where can we go?

Get ready, quickly.

Be prepared to die if you remain here.

You must escape before daybreak.

Hurry!

What should we do, Head Nurse?

I will stay by the doctor's side.

We must save the students.

Why don't we send them to Ibaru? Other surgical units are there.

What about you?

No, you mustn't stay back. Please go.

- If you stay, so will I. - Me, too.

Teacher!

Hurry! Go quickly!

Everyone head towards Ibaru and go to the 1st or 3rd Surgical Units!

Hey! Get a move on it. Hurry!

If you don't leave now, I'll kill you!

I don't want to go.

Hurry and get out!

We're going.

So long.

Take care. Do your best.

Hurry or it'll be over for you!

Group 6 will now leave.

Let's go.

Kakihara. Kakihara!

The enemy has suffered immense casualties.

Daily attacks by our suicide troops have left the boastful enemy shaking in their boots.

However, the enemy is successfully advancing and...

will likely land on the south shore as well.

Our situation is such that we must launch a full-scale attack tomorrow.

Accordingly, we now order the disbandment of school staff and students today.

Each of you is free to leave here.

I had hoped we could all stay together until the end.

But to achieve victory, we must go our separate ways.

You've worked hard. I thank you.

You are certain to be rewarded someday.

The military will assume responsibility for nurses and staff.

You may join us if you so desire.

Others, including all patients, will join us in the attack.

We will fight to our deaths and wipe out the enemy.

In passing, our Commander and Major Sasaki were killed by enemy fire at headquarters.

Teacher.

Hisada.

Teacher.

Teacher.

- I'm so glad. - Where's Kakihara?

Chiyoko and her sister still aren't here.

Teacher.

Miyagi.

Mr. Tamai.

We leave at 0430 tomorrow. We will head to the coastline, then enter a bunker.

Each teacher will lead 5 to 10 students and, depending on conditions, proceed to Kunigami.

Let's go to Kunigami.

Let's go together everyone.

I can't hear you.

I am unable to hear.

I used to fish for minnow in that river.

I still dream of those days even now.

Oh, how I miss my home town.

I wonder if my parents are doing well.

I wonder if my old friends are alright.

When it rains, when the wind blows,

A letter to your mother? When it rains, when the wind blows,

- Could you read it? - Yes.

I think of my home town.

You mustn't die. Live to the end.

What a senseless war.

My duty is to my students. I cannot go back alive.

I let my students suffer injuries, and let them die.

I can no longer...

Let's escape!

We must save the girls.

We must save the girls!

Let's escape. Lift your spirits.

Let's work to save every last one of them.

Miyagi, do you understand what I'm saying?

This is the best porridge I've had in a while.

I'm sorry I barged in here.

You've been very helpful to us.

You've been very kind.

I wish I had a brother like you.

I worked at a fish shop.

I was a delivery man until the war started.

But I'm going to start a catering business after the war ends.

I'm saving up for it.

Visit me when you go to the mainland. I'll treat you.

As a gift of thanks...

I guess this medicine won't do.

Is that cyanide?

- Let me have it. - I want it.

That's a great gift. I want it.

Give it to me.

I won't give this to anyone who has a hand grenade.

Then Oda and Tanada can't have it.

Let's draw for it.

Paper... Scissors.. Rock... Paper... Scissors.. Rock...

We, Fumi and Chiyo Uehara of Group 6, have just arrived.

I'm glad you made it here.

Dr. Otaka of the Itosu bunker, Head Nurse Oshiro, and...

Instructor Teruya, and the rest of the 2nd Surgical Unit are missing.

Also missing are Miss Miyagi and eight others of the 3rd Surgical Unit.

They're right here.

Are they really here?

I'm so glad!

I bet you haven't had a thing to eat.

I have something good.

I'm giving every one of you a slice of this pineapple I saved.

Say, "Ahh."

Not with your dirty hands.

Kamikaze planes are now being requested. I'm sure they'll arrive tomorrow.

I think I'll go on a suicide mission in this getup.

The enemy won't shoot women.

Did you find that?

I wonder if he'll pass as a woman?

Hello.

A farewell party?

Please join us.

A once-in-a-lifetime banquet tonight.

You're at it again.

Laugh too much and the enemy will hear you.

Bunko!

We did our best to get here.

Sister!

Sonny!

This is how I've become.

As long as I'm alive I can meet my parents.

I want to see my mother once more before I die.

Please don't mention your mother.

We'll start to cry.

Look at Chiyo.

She's all alone.

Can you hear it?

The roar of the sea.

Hear the roar of our naval fleet plowing through the waves.

Our fleet at the southern tip will launch an attack tomorrow...

and wipe out the enemy fleet.

Their land forces will then be trapped. Keep your heads up!

You can hear it, the roar of the sea.

Are those lights coming from the enemy ships?

Will we be able to escape?

Should we turn back?

Hey!

Taira, let's find a bunker, then decide our course of action.

To reach Kunigami our only routes are along the east or west side.

Therefore, we can only go along the coastline or by sea.

Many have gone on rafts to Kunigami.

We think they were successful since they didn't come back.

We should leave before dawn?

It's a pity they can't rest longer before leaving.

Just when we've gathered together we'll soon be split apart.

What did you say?

Let's be raring to go tomorrow.

All of you, man your posts.

Be ready for enemy attacks.

I hope we're all here.

Is the boy here?

I'm here.

Chiyoko. Chiyoko!

Chiyoko's missing.

Uehara.

Don't go! You mustn't leave!

Put out that light.

A tank!

What did you say?

Everyone... Courageous Japanese soldiers,

Okinawans who love your native islands.

Stop your useless battle.

For whom are you fighting?

Return to your parent's homes.

To everyone, to all Japanese people...

The war in Okinawa has ended.

Stop your useless fighting.

Come out.

Were we defeated?

We will give you food, anything that you need.

We absolutely will not harm you.

- Come out. - Now's our chance.

Ready?

People of Japan, the war in Okinawa is over.

The Americans are now helping to rebuild Okinawa.

Trust us. You can trust the American military.

Is there no one inside?

- Did we surrender? - Your life is in danger if you do not come out.

- Stop your useless struggle. - Don't be fooled. They want to demoralize us.

Your life is in danger if you do not come out.

You mustn't fall for their propaganda and surrender.

This is your last warning.

Come out immediately.

Is there no one inside?

If you are there, come out while you can.

Is there no one inside?

Mr. Tamai.

The students...

Chiyoko!

Tanks!

Enemy tanks!

Stop!

Look out!

Teacher!

Sister!

Sister!

English subtitles by kirikomi.

The End