Okinawa is declared captured by US forces. The price paid to capture this island-16,000 men, 36 ships, and 800 aircraft-is a key consideration in the decision to use the atomic bombs on Japan.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.