“1,270 meters” echoes in my mind. That is the distance from ground zero to this very spot at Hiroshima City Tenma Elementary School. The school stands as a testament to resilience. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing.
Hiroshima City Tenma Elementary School continues its role. It is a regional elementary school. The address is Tenma-cho 1-27 Nishi Ward Hiroshima City. The phone number is 082-232-6269.
Let us consider the platanus trees on the school grounds. Four platanus trees stand tall. These trees were initially planted in 1931. They commemorated a graduating class. After the war the trees were replanted here.
During the atomic bombing the school suffered immense damage. The school building was completely destroyed. Many children and teachers lost their lives.
The platanus trees bear witness to the blast. One tree has a large cavity. It was burned by the explosion. During the replanting its orientation shifted 180 degrees. Scars on the trees face different directions.
The school has a song. It also has symbols. The platanus is one of them.
Hiroshima City Tenma Elementary School provides education to local children. It aims to nurture people. These people will contribute to society. The school preserves memories. It teaches future generations about peace.