As the world approaches the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, much of the American public remains unaware of the psychological and physical toll left on both sides of the war.
The “hibakusha”—the estimated 650,000 Japanese survivors of the bombings—continue to suffer lifelong health complications from both physical injuries and radiation exposure, along with deep psychological trauma from the immense loss and devastation they endured. The “atomic veterans”—the estimated 200,000 American soldiers who responded in the immediate aftermath of the bombings—are plagued by radiation-related illnesses and PTSD from witnessing the horrific aftermath.
The scars of nuclear warfare run deep for both Japanese civilians and American troops, and their descendants, who seek answers and understanding amidst the silence, confusion, and shame. But time is running out. As the remaining survivors reach 100 years of age, this may be our last chance to hear their voices and preserve their stories for future generations.
Karin Tanabe and Victoria Kelly, two friends whose families were on opposite sides of the war, embark on an emotional journey to uncover their family legacies. Karin’s great-great-uncle was from Hiroshima and dedicated his life to peace-building after the bomb, while Victoria’s grandfather, an American veteran who served in Nagasaki, was haunted by his experiences and suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism until his death.
Together, Karin and Victoria seek answers from family members, historians, and psychologists, and speak with the last remaining American atomic veterans and Japanese survivors, before time runs out. Through their travels, conversations, and acts of reconciliation, they offer a new perspective on the nuclear age and its enduring consequences, urging reflection and peace as this pivotal anniversary approaches.
