Shigemi Fukahori, a survivor of the 1945 Nagasaki atomic bombing, who dedicated his life to advocating for peace and campaigning against nuclear weapons, has died at the age of 93. He passed away on January 3 at a hospital in Nagasaki, as confirmed by the Urakami Catholic Church, a place where he prayed almost daily until last year.

Fukahori's death, attributed to old age, marks a significant loss for the global peace community. The Urakami Church, located around 500 meters from ground zero and close to the Nagasaki Peace Park, stands as a symbol of hope, having survived the devastating bombing.

At only 14 years old, Fukahori witnessed the horror as the bomb was dropped on August 9, 1945, leading to mass casualties and the devastating impact on his family. This immense tragedy followed just three days after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which resulted in approximately 140,000 fatalities. The direct result of these attacks led to Japan’s surrender and ultimately, the conclusion of World War II.

For many years after the bombing, Fukahori struggled to speak about the event due to the excruciating memories and feelings of helplessness. It was not until about 15 years ago, during a transformative visit to Spain where he met a survivor of the Guernica bombing in 1937, that he began to articulate his experiences and advocate for peace more vocally.

Reflecting on his experience, he told Japan's national broadcaster, NHK, "On the day the bomb dropped, I heard a voice asking for help. When I walked over and held out my hand, the person's skin melted. I still remember how that felt.” These traumatic memories fueled his commitment to educating future generations about the devastating impacts of war.

Fukahori frequently addressed students, urging them to carry on what he termed the "baton of peace." His advocacy reached global leaders as well, with Fukahori presenting a wreath to Pope Francis during his visit to Nagasaki in 2019. In subsequent events, he represented atomic bomb victims, pledging, “I am determined to send our message to make Nagasaki the final place where an atomic bomb is ever dropped.”

A wake and funeral services were planned at the Urakami Church, where his daughter will represent the family, further cementing Fukahori’s lasting legacy as a beacon of hope in the ongoing quest for peace.

For more information, read the full report on VOA News.