The ground at the foot of the Tapochao cross is level, which signifies that it does not matter what race, nationality, age, gender or religion you come from — you are free to join the devotees in their yearly ritual.
Today is my third year to go up as an observer of all the interesting events that take place at the island’s highest point during this time of the year, but I’ve gone up there several other times.
Mt. Tapochao is the only spot on Saipan that offers a full 360 degree view of the whole island.
It always feels exhilarating to stand up there and I never get tired of breathing in the cool mountain air and enjoying the panoramic view.
Mt. Tapochao also played a significant role during the Battle of Saipan.
An old marker at the top of the mountain reminds everyone how the spot gave the Japanese and the American forces the ability to observe the troop movements all over the island.
The marker indicates where the Japanese spotters positioned themselves to direct cannon fire at the advancing American forces. It took 10 days of brutal uphill fighting before the American Marines could finally capture Mt. Tapochao on June 25, 1944.
Standing at the top of the mountain is like taking a trip of over 60 years back and envisioning the bloody battle that took place, but words and pictures would never be enough to make you experience the real thing unless you were there.
//
