OTTUMWA, Iowa (KYOU) - The Marshallese community gathered to celebrate a day of freedom in Ottumwa.

William and Josolynn Gordon are leaders with the First Pentecostal assembly of God in Ottumwa.

“It feels good it feels like home. You know you look around and see familiar faces,” said William.

They also represent the growing Marshallese community in the area.

On Monday they came together to remember some of those that lost their lives in the fight for their land.

The Marshall Islands played a key role for battles in the Pacific Ocean during World War Two, but many Marshallese died as Japan and the United States fought for the territory.

Jaluit Jor is a day to celebrate the liberation of one of its islands.

“It’s an honor to be here. It’s almost like a miracle. We are far, thousands o

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