I always appreciate those who went through that hell on earth, especially Okinawa with my family history there too.
Make sure that bayonet, compass, and any other items you may have gotten (papers and photos can be the coolest things) are displayed.
I've switched gear from Remmarque in mid book to "A Year at the Movies: One Man's Filmgoing Odyssey" by Kevin Murphy. It's an interesting delving into the world of flim from the consumer side; plus he's a MST3K Alum so there is quite a bit of wit.