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Hiroshima survivors and US vets react to non-apology

CCTV.com

05-27-2016 12:52 BJT

How do US war veterans view the non-apology? Our reporter Sean Callebs has gathered some reactions on that from both Hiroshima survivors and US war veterans. 

The old black and white video doesn't do justice to the horrific explosion of the first nuclear weapon used in war.

In a matter of seconds, the bomb devastated Hiroshima, as the United States tried to bring an end to World War Two.

Today, the shiny aircraft that carried the bomb - the Enola Gay - sits on display as a museum relic。 In Hiroshima - there are reminders everywhere. And, ahead of President Barack Obama's planned historic visit to the city - demands are coming from its citizens.

"I think an apology is needed for the real victims who suffered," said Terumi Tanaka, Hiroshima survivor.

US President Barack Obama has made it clear he has no intention of apologizing. And, at the World War Two memorial, in Washington, D.C. - a sampling of U.S. veterans agree with Obama.

"I don't feel he should apologize for the way World War Two played out, because first - war is hell," said Michael Pauling, Afghanistan war veteran.

Veterans also point out, it was Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii that brought America into World War Two.

 "My wife's dad was on the Arizona when the Japanese sank it," said David Pauling, Vietnam veteran.

More than 1,100 U.S. troops were entombed in the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Today, Vietnam Vet David Pauling says it is good Obama is going to Hiroshima -and hopefully both nations will move forward.

"I think you have to put things in the past behind you, I really do," said David.

1945 -was a long time ago, -There are fewer than one-million World War Two veterans alive in the United States.

While an estimated 140,000 people died in the bombing - most experts agree it shortened the war and saved countless lives. So like it or not -in this case peace has a price   and that price means no U.S. apology.

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