Te Aso o te Paula: Tuvalu marks 82 anniversary of Japanese bombing

Scoop

24-04-2025

Tuvalu marked Te Aso o te Paula (Bomb Day), the 82nd anniversary of the bombing of Funafuti in 1943, on Wednesday.
Pacnews agency reported it is a day of remembrance, resilience, and has seen renewed calls for peace.
On 23 April, 82 years ago, Japanese bombers targeted Funafuti.
As the attack approached, around 50 locals had sought refuge inside a church.
Corporal Fonnie Black Ladd, a US Marine stationed in Funafuti, realised the church would likely be targeted and tried to get the people to leave.
Cabinet Minister Simon Kofe said he then took more direct action, "he fired his weapon to force an evacuation. Moments later, the church was bombed and destroyed. His actions saved many lives."
Corporal Ladd's bravery earned him the Silver Star Medal, one of the United States' highest military honours.
The day is commemorated each year through memorial services, storytelling, and fatele dances, which preserve the lived memories of war through Tuvaluan tradition and oral history.
"Every year, we remember this day - Te Aso o te Paula-through memorial services, stories, and fatele dances that recount the experiences of our people during the war. It's a powerful reminder that even the most remote and peaceful places, like Tuvalu, are not immune from the impacts of global conflict," Kofe said.
In a reflection that echoes with current global challenges, Kofe connected the past to present geopolitical tensions.
"Looking at the state of the world today, with rising tensions and growing uncertainty, this day reminds us that war affects all of us.
"And it reminds us why we must keep working for peace, justice and the protection of all people - no matter how far away they may seem."