American Valor Quarterly Issue 2 - Spring 2008 | Page 18

WWII

The Japanese American Experience
“Go For Broke.” That was the motto of the 442nd Regimental Combat
Team, which served as a reminder of how each man in the all-Japanese
American outfit had to prove himself on the battlefield in order to prove his
loyalty to his own country. While the internment of Japanese Americans
during World War II is an example of an unfortunate mistake made by a
great country, the fact that a great many Japanese Americans fought so hard
for the U.S. despite such treatment is a testament to America’s goodness.

In addition, a small but wise group of government officials
obtained President Roosevelt’s approval to form an all-volunteer,
segregated Japanese American unit for combat in the European
Theater. This unit was called the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
Eventually, 13,000 Japanese Americans served in the 442nd in
Europe and 3,000 served in the Asian Pacific Theaters—many in
combat units on the front lines.

At the 10th Annual Conference, several Japanese American veterans of World
War II gathered to tell their stories. For Joe Ichiuji, Grant Hirabayashi,
Grant Ichikawa, Kelly Kuwayama, and Medal of Honor recipient George
Joe Sakato, World War II provided the stage to show that they, too, belonged
among the Greatest Generation. The panel was moderated by Terry Shima,
veteran of the 442nd RCT and Executive Director of the Japanese American
Veterans Association.

A total of 33,000 Japanese Americans, men and women, served
in the armed forces—many with great distinction. Eight hundred
of them made the ultimate sacrifice. We are here to tell you their
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