3 YEARS LATER, THE 'MIDWAY' MOVIE STILL HITS HOME FOR THOSE WHO LIVED IT
As the anniversary of the movie Midway comes up, families who were affected by the traumatic events are remembering their loved ones who unfortunately died in the battle. The Midway movie illustrates the major struggle that happened in the Pacific Theater of World War II and shows the gruesome conflict between Japan and the United States. Read next:Battle of Midway: 80 Years Since We Turned the Tide of WWII
Was the Midway Movie Based on Real Events?
Some viewers wonder if the Midway movie (2019) was based on a true story, and it’s, in fact, based on all-too-real events that occurred during World War II in the battle of Midway Island. The Battle of Midway start date was June 4 and lasted until June 7,1942. The United States victory at this battle was considered “the moment where the U.S. regained their military dignity.”
What Was the Battle of Midway?
National Archives and Records Administration[/caption] The Battle of Midway followed the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii, which happened on December 7, 1941. The attack from the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Forces left many troops dead and many warships permanently destroyed. The Battle of Midway date may have started on June 4 and ended June 7, but those were three intense days of battle. Wanna learn more? Here are some Battle of Midway facts that you should keep in mind as you watch the Midway movie.
- The battle took place in the central Pacific Ocean region, where the Midway Islands are located.
- The battle began at 6:30 a.m. when Japanese planes fired at Midway.
- The battle was fought almost entirely with aircraft.
- American forces decimated Japan's first line of defense, leaving them at a stark disadvantage for the remainder of the battle.
- The United States lost approximately 150 planes, and Japan lost about 320 planes.
- The Battle of Midway casualties were about 3,000 sailors and airmen for the Japanese.
- Roughly 317 U.S. Sailors, Airmen, and Marines were killed in the battle.
- Japan lost all of their heavy aircraft carriers, which included the Akagi, Hiryu, Kaga, and Soryu.
When the conflict ended, the Battle of Midway was characterized as “a victory of intelligence.” U.S. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, the Commander in Chief of the Pacific Ocean Areas, led U.S. Naval Forces and secured victory for the United States in their conflict with Japan.
How the Battle of Midway Movie Presents the Facts
Midway movie recalls the events that happened during the actual battle against Japanese forces. It focuses on the Battle of Midway, the fight between the American fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy. The Midway movie spared no expense when it came to the cast. Woody Harrelson, Patrick Wilson, Luke Evans, Nick Jonas, Ed Skrein, and many more award-winning celebs grace the screen in this epic film. One of the key points of the movie’s production and direction was that the movie be historically accurate and show viewers how actual events unfolded. According to retired Navy Rear Admiral Sam Cox, “Despite some of the ‘Hollywood’ aspects, this is still the most realistic movie about naval combat ever made.” Cox adds on by saying the Midway movie captures the “courage and sacrifice and stakes involved in the battle.” In the movie, where Nick Jonas plays Bruno Gaido, when a Japanese plane attempts to crash land on the aircraft carrier Enterprise, Gaido runs toward a parked bomber, jumps in, and starts firing it at the Japanese aircraft. The movie depicts Jonas saving the carrier just as Gaido did decades ago. Unfortunately, Gaido was later captured by Japanese forces with his pilot and was tragically executed. Overall, Roland Emmerich, director of the Midway movie, did an exceptional job in making the movie as accurate as possible. Veterans such as Sam Cox who’ve lived to tell the story also applaud the film for recreating the battle to where it was historically accurate while also giving viewers a cinematic masterpiece.
From Past to Present
DVIDS Glenn Sircy | Center for Information Warfare Training[/caption] Eight decades later, the Battle of Midway still leaves a significant impression on those who survived the traumatic events. From the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor that served as a catalyst for the Battle of Midway, families and Veterans alike remember the brave and courageous troops who helped lead the U.S. to success. In a 2021 ceremony to honor the troops who died on that fateful day, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro celebrated their legacy with their families. He said, "l want to thank you, the American people, for your unwavering support of our military and their families. It's so very important to us. And, most of all, I thank [the] men and women who continue to serve today in our nation's military. They are also brave souls… “I'm grateful to have survived and to have had the opportunity to serve throughout World War II. But, for thousands of people, that first day of the war was also the last they saw of it. The loss of those lives showed us what was at stake. At the same time, their courage ignited a spark that rallied Americans all across the country and redefined the meaning of service..” President Joe Biden was also in attendance for the ceremony but was attending remotely. He emphasized that American citizens should remember everything the troops had to give up for the protection of our country. "Today, as we once more commemorate the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and died in the attacks on Pearl Harbor, remember the debt we owe all those who put themselves on the line for our freedom." Families gathered around in silence during the ceremony to remember their loved ones who served and perished in the events that unfolded many decades ago. Their bravery and strength still echo throughout the chamber of history. They will continue to be perfect examples of what heroism looks like and why Americans owe them much more than we could ever repay.
How Are the Fallen Heroes Remembered?
How Are the Families Coping?
Although decades have passed, the families of service members who perished during the battle have always been silently grieving and honoring them. A museum was built to remember what happened during the destructive time and to honor those who have fought for us. Families visit to see the remnants of the battle and experience their loved ones' efforts imprinted in the walls, reminding them of their bravery and courage to fight and never give up. The Midway movie recalls the moments during that time and continues to bring their sacrifices to life as Veterans and their families remember the tough battle. Their strength and courage was not in vain. Suggested read:11 of the Best Military Movies in 2022 to Binge-Watch Now