Shigeaki Mori, a Japanese atomic bomb survivor and dedicated historian, has died at the age of 88 in Hiroshima. Mori was just eight years old when he survived the devastating U.S. atomic attack on Hiroshima in 1945, an event that claimed the lives of tens of thousands of people.
Decades of Research into American POWs
For over 40 years, Mori committed himself to extensive research, focusing on a little-known aspect of the Hiroshima bombing. He worked tirelessly to identify 12 American prisoners of war who were killed by the atomic blast, a fact that had remained unknown to their families for decades.
His meticulous efforts culminated in U.S. authorities officially confirming the deaths of these American service members. Mori documented his findings in a book titled 'The Secret of the American POWs Killed by the Atomic Bomb', which brought this hidden chapter of history to light.
International Recognition and Obama's Embrace
Mori gained global attention in 2016 during then U.S. President Barack Obama's historic visit to Hiroshima. In a poignant moment, Obama hugged Mori, publicly acknowledging his significant work and dedication. This embrace symbolised a gesture of reconciliation and highlighted Mori's role in bridging historical gaps between the nations.
Mori's passing marks the loss of a key figure in preserving the memory of the Hiroshima bombing and honouring all its victims, including the previously unrecognised American POWs.
