A traditional stilt-built hut, likely used for fishing or storage, stands damaged above the tidal flats of Okinawa in this photograph taken during the World War II era. Structures like this dotted the Ryukyu Island coastline before the 1945 Battle of Okinawa brought widespread destruction to the region. Images of everyday civilian infrastructure such as this offer a glimpse into the island's traditional way of life, disrupted by the largest amphibious assault of the Pacific War and the Japanese surrender that followed. Project: 218464