Japanese American Veterans Association JAVA ADVOCATE

April 2008 Volume XVI—Issue 1

Inside this issue: High Participation for Cherry Blossom President’s Message 2 JAVA Leadership Freedom Walk, Co-sponsored by JAVA JAVA Appoints New VP By Barbara Nekoba, JAVA Member on Freedom Walk Committee New Hampshire Diversity 3 tween Madison and Jefferson Drives. Council Honors The National Japanese American Me- JAVA TV Interview morial Foundation and JAVA cele- The purpose of this year's Freedom Teachers Workshop on 4 brated their 10th anniversary of the an- Walk was to affirm Asia Pacific Ameri- Nisei Experience nual Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk on can resolve as citizens to work with Saturday, April 5. It was a beautiful JA National Museum 5 their nation's political and civic leaders spring day, with cherry blossoms in Conference in July in upholding civil rights. bloom and fluttering to the ground in Smithsonian to Honor 6 the gentle breeze. Over 200 people par- Ben Kuroki ticipated in this event, marking the JAVA participated in the opening cere- Donations for Memorial mony, with Day Floral Wreaths highest turn- out yet. The Beth Fujishige NVC of Seattle Reopens 7 4K noncom- as the mistress Memorial Hall petitive walk of ceremonies. 442d Hawaii Reunion 8 began at the Former U.S. MIS Vets into Hall of Fame National Transportation Secretary Nor- News from Other Veterans 9 Japanese Organizations American Me- man Mineta morial to Pa- and Japanese Leadership of JA Veterans 10 triotism, at D Ambassador to Organizations Street and the Ryozo Meet the Generals and Flag 11 New Jersey Officers Avenue, NW, Kato kicked-off and encircled the Walk. Tuskegee Airman Visits 12 Above Left: Former Secretary of Transportation Norman With FFNV a portion of Mineta. Right: Professor Gary Okihiro. Photos by Eileen [continued on JAVA Annual Lunch Recap The Mall be- Roulier. page 5]

Texas Historical Marker 13 Honors JA Farmers Nancy Pelosi Supports Nisei Stamp Campaign Go For Broke Book 14 JA Speakers at High Schools In a letter dated January 24, 2008, to would be fitting that this group of vet- the Citizens Stamp Advisory Commit- erans’ heroism and sacrifice be pre- Scholarship News 15 tee, U.S. Congresswoman and Speaker served in history.” Cherry Blossom Festival of the House Nancy Pelosi wrote her Taps: Shizuya Hayashi 16 support of the grassroots campaign to According to the Nisei Stamp Cam- JAVA Volunteers Needed establish a commemorative postage paign website at www.niseistamp.org, Welcome New Members stamp to honor the WW II Nisei veter- organizers “believe that the patriotic ans. “Having the Nisei World War II From the Editor 17 sacrifice and outstanding accomplish- Membership Application Veterans be commemorated as a stamp ments of the Japanese American sol- honors the veterans that have helped diers of World War II are worthy of a JAVA Contact Information 18 Upcoming Events protect and defend our nation. . . .It U.S. postage stamp.” PAGE 2 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008

sei WW II experience. Next President’s Message month they are doing the same in northern Virginia The crocus were schools. I believe that ad- beautiful, the for- dressing the middle and sythias are great, high school students, who but now is the time are our future leaders, is for the cherry blos- one of the best ways to en- soms to grace Wash- sure that the WW II intern- ington, DC. JAVA’s ment experience is not re- activities for the past peated to any minority three months have equaled the Spring group. flowers—vibrant and beautiful.

Thanks to referrals from We have had excellent responses to National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism GFBNEC, JAVA members our announcements for our four schol- with Cherry Blossoms in full bloom in Washington, D.C. were invited by the New Photo by Gerald Yamada. arships which will be awarded at next Hampshire Diversity month’s quarterly luncheon. Scholar- Awareness Council in Manchester, New rial Day Program with JACL at ship Chair Calvin Ninomiya and Se- Hampshire, to speak at the Martin Lu- Arlington Cemetery, the National lection Committee Chair Dr. Jim Fu- ther King Dinner on January 20th. Then Memorial Day Parade down Consti- rukawa are making this happen. on February 13th two JAVA members tution Avenue, Smithsonian Air were invited to Philadelphia for inter- and Space Museum showing of Ben Our education project has been tested view by Seeking Solutions with Suzanne Kuroki’s life, The Most Honorable and is now in an expansion phase. In for broadcast on CNN Headline News in Son, the invitation to the White partnership with the National Japa- the near future. When the broadcast House for the Asia Pacific Ameri- nese American Memorial Foundation date is known we will advise you via can Heritage Month program, and (NJAMF) and the Go For Broke Na- Grant Ichikawa’s round robin. JAVA Scholarship awards, among others. tional Education Center (GFBNEC), a speakers carried the Japanese American successful teachers’ training program message and also expanded JAVA’s Have a great Spring season. was conducted for area history teach- name recognition. ers. JAVA and NJAMF teams have since visited Maryland high schools to Officers We are preparing for several big events speak to students concerning the Ni- Robert Nakamoto, President in the next quarter: the National Memo- LTC Martin Herbert, USA (Ret), Vice President JAVA Appoints New Vice President MAJ Kim Luoma, USAFR, Secretary LTC Earl Takeguchi, USA (Ret), JAVA’s Executive Council ap- both Afghanistan and Iraq. Treasurer proved the appointment of LTC Herbert was also commended Martin Herbert, USA (Ret), to for actions in the Pentagon on Executive Council the position of Vice President. September 11, 2001, and Above Officers plus: served as Crisis Action Officer Grant Ichikawa Herbert, currently a consultant in the Pentagon National COL Sunao Phil Ishio, USAR (Ret) with Booz, Allen, Hamilton, re- Military Command Center BG Bert Mizusawa, USAR ceived his Bachelors degree in after it was attacked. Calvin Ninomiya Economics from the University of Louisville and his Masters in Hu- Some of Herbert’s Booz Allen clients Terry Shima, Executive Director man Resource Development from include Office of the Secretary of De- MAJ Kay Wakatake, USA Webster University. fense, Defense Logistics Agency, and the Lt Col Michael Yaguchi, USAF (Ret), Unified Combatant Commands. He cur- Deputy Executive Director He served 20 years in the Army as an rently leads the Army Materiel Com- Gerald Yamada, General Counsel Infantry and multi-functional Logisti- mand Lessons Learned team providing cal Officer. He specialized in tactical observations, insights, and lessons on a Honorary Chairs operations, supply distribution, direct wide variety of issues for the 4-star Senator Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Senate support maintenance, transportation, Commanding General of the Army Ma- Senator Daniel K. Inouye, U.S. Senate and medical support. He also has teriel Command. COL Sunao Phil Ishio, USA (Ret) Joint Chiefs of Staff (National Mili- tary Command Center) experience Cal Shintani regretfully resigned due to The Honorable Norman Y. Mineta and has served as Aide de-Camp to added professional responsibilities; the Chief of Staff, Army. He brings JAVA thanks Cal for his superb service JAVA ADVOCATE with him recent combat experience as during his tenure as vice president. Akio Konoshima, Editor Emeritus a Logistics Task Force Commander in MAJ Kay Wakatake, USA, Editor PAGE 3 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008

2000 by Mr. Jennings, is a nonprofit volunteer NH Diversity Council Honors JA Vets organization dedicated to bringing together The New Hampshire Cultural people of diverse ethnic backgrounds to work Diversity Awareness Council’s on various cultural issues facing the nation (NHCDAC) recognized the today. efforts of Senator Daniel Inouye and JAVA in promot- Ichiuji and Shima, both World War II veter- ing diversity on January 21, ans of the 442nd RCT and JAVA members, 2008 at Radisson Hotel in accepted the award on behalf of JAVA. Sena- Manchester, New Hampshire, tor Inouye, who was unable to attend the Din- attended by 250 people. The ner, will receive the award in Washington, occasion was the 7th Annual D.C. during the Asian Pacific American Heri- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. L-R. Joe Ichiuji, Wayne Jennings, Terry Shima. tage Month in May. Other Japanese American “Keeping the Dream Alive” Photo courtesy of Wayne Jennings. guests who were invited to the dinner were Dinner. The Council made Dr. Susumu Ito, 442nd RCT veteran and Pro- presentations in a tribute to the Japanese American veter- fessor Emeritus, Harvard University, and his wife, ans and their families confined to internment camps during Minnie; Tetsuo Takayanagi, Military Intelligence Service World War II. (MIS) veteran, and his wife Mae; Dorothy Yamashita, wife of the late Dr. Kanshi Stanley Yamashita, MIS veteran, of The granite award (left), in the shape of the Lebanon, New Hampshire, and her daughter Mari Demoya; state of New Hampshire, was inscribed, and Grey S. Emmons, a student at Tuck Business School at “Presented to The Japanese American Vet- Dartmouth University and nephew of Terry Shima. erans Association. In recognition of your great leadership at promoting diversity and U.S. Senator John E. Sununu, Special Guest Speaker, dis- the values which are adherent to our coun- cussed highlights of developments in the US Congress, his try and the dreams of Dr. Martin Luther close fraternal relationship with Senator Inouye, and the King, Jr.” In presenting the award, Wayne Nisei experiences during WW II. He applauded the efforts D. Jennings, Chairman of NHCDAC, said of various Japanese American organizations to educate the “We are honored to have Joe Ichiuji and Terry Shima speak American public on their internment experience so no eth- at our dinner. America is proud and appreciative of the con- nic group will have to experience a similar situation again. tributions that the Japanese American veterans have made to make our country a strong nation.” NHCDAC, founded in [full press release at www.javadc.org]

TV Interview of JAVA Members Grant Ichikawa and Terry Shima improving lives and were interviewed on February 13 making the journey by Seeking Solutions with Suzanne fun, provocative, fas- for broadcast on CNN Headline cinating and adven- News at an unscheduled future ture-filled.” Suzanne date. Seeking Solutions with Suz- Roberts “gives her anne is a nationally televised show audience a guide map targeted to the over 50 audience. to make the most of Emmy Award-winning Suzanne their lives.” Seeking Roberts is the senior host. Solutions with Suz- anne is broadcast L-R: Suzanne Roberts interviews Terry Shima and Grant Ichi- kawa at Seeking Solutions with Suzanne studio. Photo credit: The broadcast consists of both a 5- three times daily on Laurie Jentus minute segment to air 3 times daily CNN Headline News on CNN Headline News to 20 mil- at 11:55am, 4:55pm, and 9:55pm tributions of the Nisei. lion viewers, as well as a weekly EDT. half-hour program that airs Sunday The broadcast dates will be posted on evenings nationwide. The interview covered such points as the JAVA Round Robin email when the execution of Executive Order they are known. For more informa- According to its website, Solutions 9066, conditions of the horse stable tion go to www.suzanne.tv. JAVA with Suzanne informs and enter- and camps, attitude towards intern- participation was derived through a tains by providing “tips, ideas, and ment, how camp life affected families, referral from the Go For Broke Na- insights on topics that impact why Nisei volunteered for military tional Education Center adults over 50, with a goal toward service, and how JAVA views the con- (www.goforbroke.org). APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 4 Teachers Workshop Bring Nisei Experience to Classroom

On February 2, educators from Mary- Augmenting the land, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. discussion was Ge- became the first in their region to take rald Yamada, part in teacher training workshops President and Ex- focused on the WW II experience of ecutive Director of Japanese Americans, particularly the NJAMF, who de- Nisei and other minorities who served scribed the NJAMF in the military. teachers guide and invited teachers to The East Coast participants join more bring their Above: Participants of the Teachers Workshop at Montgomery Blair than 1,500 educational professionals classes to the Na- High School in Silver Spring, Maryland. Below: Teacher workshop who have completed the Go For Broke tional Japanese in session. Walking with back to camera is Mark Elinson, Education National Education Center American Memo- Facilitator of GFBNEC. Photos by Grant Hirabayashi. (GFBNEC) program that began 10 rial to Patriotism, years ago and in 1998 became part of located near the the California State Curriculum So- U.S. Capitol Build- cial Studies Standard. ing. JAVA Execu- tive Director Terry Shima announced Maryland’s Montgomery County Pub- that related publi- lic Schools (MCPS) and GFBNEC cations are avail- partnered with the National Japanese able and that vet- American Memorial Foundation erans and former (NJAMF) and JAVA to present the internees can be made available to ures, and I am honored to have partici- inaugural workshop. speak at local schools. Speakers have pated in such a practical and useful already been scheduled with four high workshop.” In opening the workshop, Maria L. schools. Trementozzi, Acting Social Studies Lt Col John Hannon, USAF (Ret), a Supervisor of MCPS, stressed the im- Some 30,000 Japanese Americans former B-52 Bomber pilot and currently portance of teaching minority is- served in the Armed Forces during teacher at Bryant High School in Alex- sues. “Our goal is to convey the value WW II, including 10,000 with the andria, VA, remarked, “I found the lessons embodied by the Nisei who 100th Battalion-442nd RCT in workshop very informative both in served the nation honorably in the and 6,000 with the MIS in the Asia terms of history I didn’t know and in face of discrimination,” according to Pacific Theater. Many of them volun- ways to effectively present the history GFBNEC President and Chief Execu- teered for combat duty from the 10 of Japanese American veterans. Inter- tive Officer Christine Sato-Yamazaki. internment camps. For its combat in viewing veterans allowed us to hear Italy, France, and Germany, the 100th- their stories and showed the instruc- “Teachers are the key to bringing 442nd RCT received 7 Presidential Unit tional value of capturing oral histories these unique and inspiring stories to Citations, 21 Medals of Honor, 29 Dis- in the classroom. The workshop, led by students across America. This work- tinguished Service Crosses, and many highly experienced educators, was top shop offered a great opportunity that other US and foreign awards, making notch.” has developed into a mutually reward- it one of the most highly-decorated ing collaboration,” Sato-Yamazaki army unit for its size and period of Ms. Alice Reilly, Social Studies Coordi- said, adding that discussions are al- combat. nator of Fairfax County Schools, com- ready under way to conduct a similar mented, “The workshop allowed us to workshop in the coming months. Following the end of the workshop, immerse ourselves in the Nisei experi- Eliot Frankeberger, history teacher at ence through the use of primary source Education specialists Esther Taira Springbrook High School in Silver documents and video clips as well as and Mark Elinson facilitated the Spring, Maryland, said, “The work- the opportunity to speak directly with workshop, examining events that led shop gave the opportunity for teachers those who were either interned or up to the and to personally interview Japanese- fought with the 100th or 442nd battal- mass evacuation of 120,000 persons of Americans who lived these extraordi- ion. These types of exchanges resonate Japanese ancestry. They also dis- nary events and time with dignity. I with 21st students and make history cussed the formation of the 100th Bat- think all participants will return to real, and I look forward to the opportu- talion and 442nd Regimental Combat our classrooms both reinvigorated and nity to bring not only the curriculum Team as a segregated unit in WW II with a greater sense of purpose in con- resources to Fairfax County Public and explained the contributions of the veying meaningful instruction. Our Schools, but also some of the survivors Nisei who served in the Military Intel- veterans are one of our national treas- to speak to our students.” ligence Service (MIS). APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 5 JA National Museum National Conference in July

By Chris Komai, Japanese American National Museum Press Release nese American World War II ex- perience into each state’s histories. As both a follow-up to the success- The national conference, “Whose ful national conference held in America? Who’s American? Diver- Other activities are available, in- Little Rock, Arkansas in 2004, sity, Civil Liberties & Social Jus- cluding optional visits to the and as part of the year-long com- tice” is part of “Enduring Commu- Amache (Granada), Colorado camp- memoration of the 20th Anniver- nities: The Japanese American site on Thursday, July 3 and Sun- sary of the signing into law of the Experience in Arizona, Colorado, day, July 6. Presentations and Civil Liberties Act of 1988, the New Mexico, Texas and Utah,” a workshops, such as “A Guide to Japanese American National Mu- three-year initiative partially Oral Histories: A How-to Work- seum (JANM) is organizing a na- funded by Toyota Motor Sales, shop” and “Find Your Japanese tional conference that will exam- U.S.A., Inc., the Institute of Mu- American Roots” will be available ine the successful fight for re- seum and Library Services Friday, July 4. A Mini Media Festi- dress, rele- (IMLS), and Aratani val is scheduled for July 3-4 and 6 vant civil lib- Foundation, and organ- and a Youth Expo will be open July erties issues ized by the National Mu- 3-6, where the work of young people and the local seum in collaboration with (documentaries, display boards, art) Japanese educators, students and will be on view. American his- communities located in Deadline for pre-registration is tories within the five states. It involves June 5, 2008. For more information, five inland regional educators and contact the Japanese American Na- states on July students with the goal of tional Museum at (213) 625-0414 or 3-6, 2008, in Grandmother and granddaughter creating new curriculum go to www.janm.org/projects/ec. at Little Rock, Arkansas conference that integrates the Japa- Denver, CO. in 2004. Photo by Matt Bradley. Freedom Walk [continued from page 1] This is Ambassador Kato's last Free- dom Walk. A strong supporter of the Freedom Walk, Kato has participated in every Freedom Walk, rain or shine, during his long tenure as Am- bassador to the US.

The keynote speaker was Professor Gary Okihiro, co-editor of Im- pounded: Dorthea Lange and the Censored Images of Japanese Ameri- can Internment, an extraordinary previously unpublished photographic record of the internment. JAVA President Bob Nakamoto was also a speaker; JAVA Vice President Mar- Above: Four NISEI veterans were honored in a ceremony on Feb. 8, 2008, by BG tin Herbert led the Pledge of Alle- Ron Bouchard, J6, Director of Communications at the 100th Infantry Club in giance; and JAVA member Tino Honolulu, Hawaii. Pictured with BG Bouchard (center) from left to right: Goro Dinh, USAF veteran, and LTC Sumida, Bernard Akamine, Robert Arakaki, and Ted Tuskiyama received plaques Blaine Asato, USAF (Ret), accompa- for sharing their experiences during WW II. Their articles, written by COL Renita nied Boy Scout Troop and Pack 508 Menyhert, USA (Ret), received the Department of Defense-wide Thomas Jefferson in the Presentation of Colors. Cul- Award, named after the nation's third president and author of the Declaration of tural entertainment included Japa- Independence. The award recognizes military and civilian employee print and nese Taiko drummers and Japanese broadcast journalism for outstanding achievement in furthering the objectives of folk dancing. the DOD Internal Information Program. Photo courtesy of 100th Veterans Hawaii. APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 6

Smithsonian to Honor Ben Kuroki The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Theater, Mall sionals in the Club on Feb- Building, will feature The Most Honorable Son: A Japanese ruary 4, 1944, Kuroki was American B-24 gunner in World War II on May 1, 2008, at greeted by the headline of 7:30 PM. The PBS film, produced by KDN Films and NET a Hearst newspaper: “Jap Foundation for Television, and directed by Bill Kubota, is a to address SF Club.” Ku- documentary on the life of Ben Kuroki, who flew 30 air com- roki saw hate and suspi- bat missions in Europe and 28 missions in Asia, including cion in the audience. When . The Smithsonian website said “the film features he finished, the audience rare WWII footage and presents Mr. Kuroki's unique, poign- gave him a 10-minute ant and virtually unknown story through his words standing ovation and com- and those he served with in the 8th and 29th Army Air pelled him to return to the Forces.” Free tickets available: call 202-633-2398 or visit podium twice. A high- Above: Ben Kuroki and wife Shige in Lincoln, NE, August 2007. http://www.nasm.si.edu/events/lectures/ticketsform.cfm. ranking California acade- Photo courtesy of Scott Stewart. Kuroki will address the audience after the documentary and mician said, “This was the will respond to questions. beginning of change of the whole attitude in California.” Even the Hearst newspaper gave Kuroki favorable cover- Shortly after the United States entered WW II, Kuroki vol- age. The War Department next ordered Kuroki to visit the unteered for the Air Corps. For the next three years, until internment camps to encourage volunteers and draftees to he was discharged, Kuroki said he had to “fight like hell” to join the Army. He was received like a hero, but a small be kept in the service that institutionally wanted him out for group of dissidents resorted to derogatory name calling. no reason but the color of his skin. He begged, pleaded, and cried, but most of all he performed at the highest level of Air Corps policy precluded any Japanese American to serve proficiency, working longer hours and with greater dedica- air duty in the Pacific. When the chain of command could tion than most. His flight colleagues steadfastly supported not help him, Kuroki appealed to several Commonwealth him. After 25 missions in Europe, Kuroki was entitled to Club members who contacted Secretary of War Henry L “hang it up” but he volunteered for 5 more missions because Stimson. Finally, Stimson personally approved Kuroki to he felt he was needed. His missions included Ploesti, which be assigned to the Pacific Theater. Kuroki flew 30 B-29 produced 1/3 of Hitler’s petroleum. Anti-aircraft guns and bomber missions from Saipan to targets in Japan. Luftwaffe fighters protecting Ploesti killed 310 American air crewmen during the August 1, 1943 bombing mission. Ku- Following the war, Kuroki obtained a journalism degree th roki survived. On his 30 mission Kuroki’s plexiglass turret and became publisher and editor of his own newspapers. dome was demolished when it was hit by flak. On August 12, 2005, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal in Lincoln, . Following the completion of his European assignment, the Army assigned Kuroki to a speaking tour that included the Only two other Nisei are known to have served as gunners exclusive Commonwealth Club of San Francisco and intern- in the Army Air Corps during WW II. They are Herbert ment camps. Every President since Lincoln spoke at the Ginoza and John Matsumoto. Commonwealth. Just before his speech to the 700 profes- Donations Solicited for Memorial Day Floral Wreaths

JAVA has joined JACL in its program to place flowers at which would represent all of the major Nikkei organiza- the grave sites of some 60 Japanese Americans at Arlington tions in the Washington, DC area. National Cemetery on the Sunday before Memorial Day, May 25, 2008. In addition, Caucasian officers assigned to We view this Arlington Cemetery floral presentation to the 100-442nd RCT, CAPT Marty Higgins, Commander of honor Nikkei heroes of all wars and time to be a perma- the trapped Texas battalion rescued by 100-442nd RCT, and nent endeavor. JAVA members, families, and friends can the 7 ethnic Japanese who died when the USS Maine sank participate in this floral program through tax deductible in Havana Harbor in 1898 will also be included in this floral cash donations. The total cost for flowers is approximately presentation. $1,700, the net expenses of which will be shared equally by the co-sponsors. JAVA has established a separate account This floral presentation will follow a program at the pavil- to pay for its share of the floral wreaths. If you wish to ion near the Columbarium and before the laying of the donate, any amount would be gratefully accepted. Please wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown. This year's keynote make your tax deductible checks payable to JAVA, write speaker at the program is George Sakato, Medal of Honor "Memorial Day Flowers" on the Memo line, and send your recipient; MAJ Kay Wakatake will also speak. Negotiations check to Earl Takeguchi, 7201 White House Drive, Spring- are underway for a third co-sponsor, the National Japanese field, VA 22153. If you would like to honor a specific sol- American Memorial Foundation (NJAMF), the inclusion of dier, please include the name on the memo line. PAGE 7 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008 NVC of Seattle Reopens Memorial Hall

The Nisei Veterans Committee (NVC) of Seattle, Wash- A renovation plan was ington held a grand opening of its remodeled Memorial approved and fund Hall located in the international district (1212 South raising began. The King St) on March 15, 2008. Washington state Gover- expanded new hall fea- nor Christine Gregoire, US Senator Patty Murray, US tures a conference Senator Daniel Inouye, US Congressmen Dave Reichert room and a wall with and Jim McDermott, state legislators, and various state photos and biographies officials participated in a ceremony that validated the to honor those who Above: Veterans Paul Hosada, left, passing of the legacy of the WWII generation to the fu- paid the ultimate and Min Tsubota, center, meet with ture generations of Japanese Americans. The renova- Gov. Christine Gregoire after ceremo- price. Facilities are nies. Below: NVC Honor Guards tion cost $2.5 million, $1.5 million of which was paid for available for NVC’s Teruo Yorita, center left, and Tom by private contributions and $945,000 were grants from education program to Ohtani, left, wait in the wings along city, county, state and federal grants. relate their WW II ex- with Seattle Japanese Queen periences. Veterans Monique Aiyaka Perkins, right, and First Princess Lisa Felice Akiyama, The NVC was activated in 1946 when American Legion also speak at schools, center right, for the start of the cere- and the Veterans of Foreign Wars refused to accept churches, and civic and mony. Photos by Mike Urban, Seattle Japanese American veterans as members. Nisei were government entities. Post-Intelligencer. also rejected by other VFW and American Legion posts About 200 JA veterans in the west coast. The NVC bought a building in Chi- live in the Seattle natown for $1,000, and veterans and their families used area. this place to socialize, offer dance lessons, and hold bar- becues, holiday A gratifying note at the festivals, basket- re-opening ceremony ball games and was the participation of karaoke nights. American Legion and VFW veterans. One of In 2001, when the participants was NVC members saw Bainbridge Island resident Jim Waikowski, a member of the inevitable de- the American Legion Post 172, who said “the shunning clining member- of Japanese American Above: Veteran George Morihiro walks by ship they were soldiers left emotional a group photo of Japanese-American sol- diers taken at Lake View Cemetery on faced with the de- scars.” The Seattle Memorial Day in 1946. Below: The hall cision to close the Times editorial of has a memorial to William J. Imamoto of organization and March 15, 2008, the U.S. Army 442nd Infantry, who was sell the property summed it up killed in the last days of World War II. or to continue. well: “History can re- Photos by Alan Berner, The Seattle Times. George Morihiro, a mind us of past strug- 442nd Staff Sgt gles, accomplishments who later served in and triumphs. . . .It the Korean War, Above: Veterans Sam Mitsui, right, and can also serve to in- said his “biggest Dale Kaku, left, salute during the na- spire new generations Memorial Day tional anthem. Below: Veterans Shig (from page 3) concern is the per- of young people and petuation of our Momoda, right, and Tak Omoto, center, provide a role model of try to find family friends on the "Killed legacy. . . .Our leg- in Action" wall. Photos by Mike Urban, courage and rectitude acy needs to be Seattle Post-Intelligencer. in the face of unfa- carried on.” A con- thomable duress. sensus was reached Such will be the case to maintain the with the Nisei Veter- organization in ans Hall.” order to leave the Nisei legacy. Yuzo Tokita, the current commander of For more information, NVC and fighter pilot in the Vietnam War, said the visit “Nisei generation spent a lot of blood, sweat and tears to www.seattlenvc.org. get this building to be their memorial hall” APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 8

Honor. Chung performed a tribute to the 442nd Hawaii’s 65th Reunion veterans from his “Heroes” DVD, By Gwen Fujie, 442nd Sons and Daughters The U.S. accompanied by Dr. Bernice Hirai Approximately 1,200 people from Army’s on koto. The mistress of ceremo- across the country attended the Freedom Team Salute also hon- nies was Ms. Carole Kai, daugh- 65th anniversary celebration of the ored each veteran with an official ter of the late Larry Manabu Shi- 442nd RCT on March 30 at the Army lapel pin, official Army de- mizu of the Military Intelligence Coral Ballroom of the Hilton Ha- cal, certificate of appreciation, and Service. waiian Village Hotel. Opening letter of thanks signed by the ceremonies included a formal “Roll Chief of Staff and the Secretary of United Television Broadcasting Call” procession of all the veter- the Army. Systems, Inc., from Hollywood, ans, including three Medal of (www.freedomteamsalute.com) CA, filmed the event for a docu- Honor recipients, US Senator Program Director COL David mentary entitled Toyo’s Camera. Daniel Inouye, George Sakato and Griffen came from Washington, (Contact Ms. Erika Jones, Assis- Barney Hajiro. COL Michael DC to do the honors. tant Producer, (714) 580-4073, eri- Peeters, USAR, Battalion Com- [email protected]). mander of the 100th Battalion Entertain- 442d Infantry Regiment, called ment in- the names of each unit as they cluded the enter the ballroom. Honolulu Jazz Quar- Sen. Inouye, from Company E, tet with was the keynote speaker, and US saxophonist Senator Daniel Akaka was in- Tim Tsuki- ducted as an Honorary Member of yama, son the 442nd RCT. Senator Akaka of veteran was recognized for his long-time Ted Tsuki- Above: 442nd Veterans Club Hawaii 2008 officers being sworn in by Eiichi yama; pro- Oki (K Co, 442nd) at the club's year-end board of directors meet- support of the veterans and for his ing/luncheon in December 2007. L-R: Harry Tokushige (522nd Field Artil- success in upgrading 22 Asian Pa- fessional lery), Treasurer; Mitsuo Honda (232nd Engineers Co), 1st Vice President; cific American recipients of the storyteller Eileen Sakai (Sons & Daughters president), Secretary; Bill Thompson (2nd Distinguished Service Cross, in- Alton Taki- Bn HQ Co), President; Moriso Teraoka (2nd Bn HQ Co), 2nd Vice Presi- yama dent; Oki (last year's treasurer) giving the oath of office. Photo by Claire cluding 20 Nisei, to the Medal of Mitani, 442nd Veterans Club Hawaii.

and facilitating the capture of the MIS Linguists Inducted into Hall of Fame Japanese Los Negros Islands Naval Adapted from Nisei VFW Post 8985, December 2007 Newsletter Base. Sakamoto arrived in Japan with the US advance team. His translation COL Thomas Sakamoto, USA (Ret), and MAJ Masaji Gene and interpretation skills were crucial to the preparation of Uratsu, USA (Ret), Military Intelligence Service (MIS) offi- the arrival of GEN Douglas MacArthur and for the surren- cers, were inducted into the Defense Language Institute der ceremony on the USS Missouri. Sakamoto also served Foreign Language Center’s (DLIFLC) 2007 Hall of Fame in as the official translator for President Dwight Eisenhower a formal ceremony on November 2, 2007. Sakamoto and during his visit to Okinawa. Sakamoto is the recipient of Uratsu were members of the MIS Language School at the two Bronze Stars. Presidio of San Francisco’s first graduating class which be- gan in November 1941, five weeks before Pearl Harbor was MAJ Uratsu, a native of Loomis and now a resident of attacked. This was a crash linguistic course in an aban- Marin County, California, served with the 158th Regimen- doned airplane hanger at Crissy Field. Both served with tal Combat Team in New Guinea where he entered a cave distinction in the Pacific and in the Occupation of Japan. and persuaded an armed Japanese soldier to surrender. Uratsu successfully led a four-week Nisei signal monitoring COL Sakamoto, a native of San Jose, California, spent 28 team to the front lines to collect signal intelligence. From years as a military linguist. On one assignment, he pro- 1954 to 1957 Uratsu served as interpreter at high-level con- vided crucial translation support to BG Thomas Chase, 1st ferences between Japanese and Allied officials to develop Cavalry Commander. Sakamoto’s translation provided the plans for a viable post-war defense of Japan. His final over- location of enemy troops which resulted in their bombard- seas assignment was as the military language aide to the ment. He translated enemy plans for a “banzai” attack Civil Administrator of Okinawa. Uratsu is the recipient of within 24 hours, thereby saving countless American lives two Bronze Stars. APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 9 News From Other Nikkei Veterans Organizations

The 442nd Veterans Club Go For Broke Bulletin reported Better than you Think by Don T. Nakanishi. The book that Michael and Grace Shirey met with six 442nd veter- discussed the approximately 2000 Asian Pacific Americans ans during their visit to Honolulu last Fall. Michael is elected and appointed officials in the federal, state and the son of MAJ Orville Shirey, S-2 (intelligence) of the local levels. “They are striving to become more organized, more visible, and more effective as participants and lead- ers to advance their individual and group interests and to contribute to our nation’s democratic processes and insti- tutions,” Nakanishi said. * * * * * The February 2008 issue announced that the 58th Annual Nisei VFW Reunion will be held at the Sands-Regency in Reno, Nevada from April 27-29, 2008.

Tri-State Chapter, 34th Infantry Division Association, Newsletter announced that their reunion will be held at Holiday Inn Pittsburgh-GreenTree from July 10-13, 2008. The Newsletter can be viewed online: http:// Michael and Grace Shirey visit Hawaii 442nd Veterans in Fall 2007. www.34infdiv.org/tristate/0712,pdf. Back row, not in order: Bill Thompson (Hq 2nd); Fred S. Ida (G Co); Bart N. Nishimura (Hq 2nd); Ronald M Oba (F Co); Samuel Y. Sasai The 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans Club, Puka-Puka (Hq.3rd Bn); Andrew Ono (K Co). Photo courtesy of Michael Shirey. PARADE, February 2008 edition reprinted a Hawaii Her- ald June 20, 1986 article on the Legend of the Torpedo 442nd RCT. During the visit Michael called his mother in Gang. It is a report of 26 Nisei draftees on the 200 ton Silver Spring, MD, who remembered one of the veterans Royal T. Frank which was sunk by a torpedo fired from a she met at a reunion. * * * * * Don Macaulay, nephew of Japanese submarine on January 28, 1942, one month after COL Virgil Miller, Executive Officer and subsequently Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. The 9 Nisei survivors later Commander of the 442nd RCT, wrote a warm article joined the 100th for overseas combat duty. * * * * * The about Miller’s respect for the men of the 442nd RCT. March edition reported that the State of Hawaii granted Miller told his nephew that the 442nd performance was $1M to the Club’s Learning Resource Center. closely monitored by the highest levels in the War De- partment and said they acquitted themselves well in and The Japanese American Korean War Veterans Newsletter out of combat. Miller was a fierce supporter of the Nisei reported that the draft of its book on Japanese Americans in their fight against discrimination and prejudice at who participated in the Korean War is expected to be com- home. * * * * * In 2007 Camp Shelby celebrated its 90th pleted in early 2008. The book estimates that 5,764,143 anniversary. The 442nd RCT and the 100th Battalion are men and women were on active duty, including 5,000 considered to be among the most notable trainees. Japanese Americans in combat and noncombat status. [These Japanese Americans fought with the same courage Seattle Nisei Veterans Committee Newsletter January as their counterparts in WW II. Unlike WW II when Japa- edition carried an article on the MIS by Kathryn nese Americans assignments were preponderantly in the Shenkle. The most important actionable intelligence infantry, in the Korean War they served in all branches of produced by a Nisei was at Bougainville in 1942 when he service and competed for all positions. Unlike WW II intercepted an uncoded radio message that Admiral Iso- when the US Army Air Corps accepted only three in air roku Yamamoto was scheduled to go on an inspection combat status as gunners, Japanese Americans in the Ko- tour of the bases around the Solomon Islands. US Navy rean War performed as pilots and navigators of fighters P-38s intercepted and shot down Yamamoto’s plane and and bombers. The subsequent Vietnam War would see a escorts. The most important document translated was larger number of Japanese Americans in sensitive war the Z-Plan of the Japanese Combined Fleet dated March planning positions, 35 in the cockpits of fighters and 5, 1944, signed by Admiral Koga, successor to Yama- bombers as pilots and navigators, in the bridges of naval moto. (The Z-Plan was the Japanese Navy’s strategy to vessels. The WW II generation settled the question of loy- demolish the US Navy’s capability in the Marianas and alty, the Korean and Vietnam War generations showed the Philippine Sea. The Z-Plan was translated and dis- Japanese Americans could compete with the best in the tributed to all military commanders in the Pacific. When armed forces.] the Japanese executed the Z-Plan, the US was prepared and defeated the Japanese Naval capability and thereby JACL Cincinnati Chapter The Grains of Rice January paved the way for the invasion of Japan.) * * * * * The 2008 edition reported that Roy Aka and James Tojo were February issue discussed NVC’s extensive “Speakers featured in 30 minute interviews by WCET that were seen Series.” as a prelude to promote Ken Burns’ The War documentary over PBS last September. Aka told of his experience with Nisei Post 8985 Newsletter, January 2008, carried an the MIS and Tojo covered his internment in Heart Moun- article How Are Asian Americans Shaping up Politically? tain followed by his service in the MIS. PAGE 10 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008

Europe and other continents. In Leadership of JA Veterans Organizations 1999 he was awarded the Emperor of Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, There are numerous Japanese American veterans or- Gold and Silver Rays. The Association was formed ganizations, some which have served their constituen- soon after the War ended. cies and communities for over 60 years. The leader- ship mantle of many of them have transferred to the post-WW II generation. Some have dissolved because 100th/442nd VETERANS ASSOCIATION, LOS AN- the purpose for which they were created is no longer GELES. John Wakamatsu, President, is a Sansei, son st viable. There are about 10 Japanese American VFW of Fox Company 1 Sgt Jack K. Wakamatsu. The As- posts and several American Legion posts. One organi- sociation was established in 1961 as a social organiza- zation represents the Korean War veterans and one tion. Since 2000 Sansei Board members have done represents the Vietnam War veterans. This is the first most of the planning and day to day tasks of the Asso- of several articles featuring backgrounds of the heads ciation, but all of the voting was done by the Veteran of these organizations. Unit Representatives. The Association participates in Memorial Day Services at Evergreen Cemetery, Vet- eran Reunions, Nisei Week Parade in Little Tokyo, 442nd RCT VETERANS CLUB, HAWAII. William Y. 100th/442nd Veteran Association ROTC Awards, Tor- Thompson, President, a native of Hilo, Hawaii, volun- rance Armed Services Parade, and Go For Broke Na- teered for the 442nd RCT in 1943 and served in four tional Education Center events. It also coordinates campaigns in Italy and France. Following his honor- with other veterans organizations and assists veterans able discharge, he obtained a civil engineering degree who need advice and counsel. As more WW II veterans at the University of Hawaii. He subsequently worked pass from the scene, “the Sansei will need to consider for the Hawaii County Water Department for nearly 18 converting the Association to a non-profit organization years. He then moved to Honolulu to serve as deputy instead of continuing it as a non-profit veterans organi- director for the State Land and Natural Resources. In zation,” Wakamatsu said. A chemist for the Los Ange- 1977, he received an interim appointment as Chair- les Department of Water and Power for the past 30 man of the Board of Land and Natural Resources. He years, Wakamatsu believes he has “this position in retired in December 1978 to become a consulting engi- part due to the sacrifice of the Nisei Veterans in neer. His maternal grandparents are from Hiroshima, WWII.” Japan, and his father was born in Scotland. As he said “I am a Nisei on my father’s side and a Yonsei on my TH mother’s side.” The Club held its 65th Reunion on 1399 ENGINEERS VETERANS. Thomas Takeichi March 29-30, 2008. (See article on page 8.) Takemoto, the eldest of 7 children, was born in Kauai and moved to Honolulu with his family at age 6. He volunteered for a combat battalion when Pearl Harbor MIS VETERANS ASSOCIATION, HAWAII. Dr. was attacked, but was rejected for medical reasons. He Glenn Masunaga, President, is a veteran of the MIS. was later drafted and was assigned to the 1399th Engi- Masunaga’s mother died at a young age, and he and neers Battalion, a Hawaii-based unit dedicated to the his older brother raised five younger brothers and sis- construction of defense projects in Hawaii. He was ters. They helped supplement the family budget by honorably discharged in 1946. Takemoto had a 33- raising and selling chickens. After his military service, year career as an auditor of the Internal Revenue Ser- he enrolled in the University of Missouri dental vice. He was elected the first president of the 1399th school and specialized in orthodontics, which he prac- Engineers Veterans, which was activated soon after ticed for over 45 years. Dr. Masunaga and a Japanese the war ended. He has held this position on and off for orthodontist developed revolutionary techniques in a total of 20 years. He was also responsible for editing orthodontics that have become standard practice to- and distributing the club’s newsletter. day. He taught orthodontic courses in various Asian capitals and has addressed orthodontic societies in

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APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 11 Meet the Generals and Flag Officers Each quarter JAVA features two Asian Americans who have attained the highest ranks in military service. This month JAVA ADVOCATE highlights Major General Antonio M. Taguba of the U.S. Army, and Rear Admiral Melvin H. Hiogioji, of the U.S. Navy.

The present count is that 77 AHPIAs have been promoted to generals and admirals, including GEN Eric Shinseki of Kauai, Hawaii, who wore four stars as the U.S. Army’s 34th Chief of Staff. Of the 77, 49 served in the U.S. Army, 12 in the U.S. Navy, 15 in the U.S. Air Force, and one in the U.S. Marines. Broken down in another way, 20 are Chinese Americans, 6 Filipino Americans, 18 Hawaii Pacific Islands, and 33 Japanese Americans.

MG Antonio M. Taguba RADM Melvin H. Chiogioji

MG Antonio Mario Taguba, USA RADM Melvin H. Chiogioji, USN (Ret), was born in Sampaloc, Ma- (Ret), is President and CEO of nila, Republic of the Philippines on MELE Associates, a consulting October 31, 1950. His father was in firm that provides engineering, the US Army while his mother environmental, management, raised seven children. When Ta- telecommunications, information guba was eleven years old, the fam- technology, and training services ily moved to Hawaii where he to federal and private sector. graduated from high school. Chiogioji, a native of Hawaii, was “Hawaii opened my mind to the commissioned an Ensign in the capabilities and opportunities in US Navy in 1961 after graduat- America,” Taguba told the ASIAN- ing Purdue University with a WEEK Newspaper in August 1997. The diversity offered major in electrical engineering. opportunities “to relate to people of all races,” Taguba said. He was naturalized as a US citizen on July 3, 1962. He served 5 years of active service and continued in the reserves, advancing to Rear Admiral in 1987. His last Taguba graduated from Idaho State University in 1972 and position was Commander of the 2nd Naval Construction joined the US Army. He assumed increasingly responsible Brigade, responsible for all Seabee operations in the At- positions with commensurate rank. He graduated from lantic and Mediterranean regions. Chiogioji said that prestigious military schools, including the US Command after his mandatory service, he liked the Navy so much and General Staff College, US Naval Command and Staff that he served in it for 32 years; he retired in 1993. College, and the US Army War College. He obtained three Chiogioji also spent 27 years at the US Department of Master's degrees, two from civilian universities. Energy, serving in various executive level positions re- sponsible for program management in areas of energy In June 1995, Taguba was Commander of the 2nd Brigade, efficiency programs, energy economics and financing, in- 4th Infantry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. From July 2004 ternational energy programs, industrial waste utilization to January 2006, he was Deputy Assistant Secretary of De- and minimization and construction management of fossil fense for Reserve Affairs (Readiness, Training and Mobili- fueled and nuclear power plants. He retired at Senior zation) in Washington, D.C. His military career covers 34 Executive Service Level 5 (SES-5). yeas and includes a three-year tour of duty in Germany, six years in Korea, and one year in Kuwait in support of Opera- Chiogioji obtained his MBA from the University of Hawaii tion Iraqi Freedom from June 2003 to July 2004. and Doctor of Business Administration degree from George Washington University in 1972. He is a registered On January 31, 2004, Taguba, Deputy Commanding Gen- professional electrical engineer and a senior member of eral, Support of Combined Forces Land Component Com- various prestigious military and civilian engineering or- mand (CFLCC), then stationed in Kuwait, was directed to ganizations. He served in numerous nonprofit military conduct an informal investigation into the allegation of de- and civilian organizations, including Chairman of the tainee abuse at Abu Ghraib Prison in Iraq. Board of the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation when the National Japanese American Memo- rial to Patriotism was dedicated in 2000 and a member of “I take it with a great deal of pride that we are able to as- the Board of Directors of the Seebee Memorial Scholarship similate ourselves into the American society. We have Association. Chiogioji is author of two books on energy shown we can contribute to society, at the same time pre- conservation. serve our Filipino American heritage and culture,” Taguba said. APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 12

Tuskegee Airman Attends FFNV Meeting by Carol Akiyama, FFNV [Condensed from FFNV press release] Spears graduated to coveted pilot status from the Tuskegee Insti- The February 16 Membership Meet- tute on June 24, ing of Friends and Family of Nisei 1944. Nicknamed the “Red Tail Veterans (FFNV), held at Morgan Angels” for their P-51 Mustangs Hill’s Buddhist Community Center, with red painted-tails, the Tuske- CA, was a resounding success. Over gee Airmen collectively-flew 200 150 people were treated to an elabo- bomber escort-missions, shot- rate buffet lunch by FFNV and Center down 400 German planes and volunteers. Tuskegee Captain Leon safely-escorted 15,000 American “Woodie” Spears spoke eloquently bombing-missions. before a rapt audience that included L-R: Lawson Sakai, Tuskegee Capt Leon "Woodie" many curious “outsiders,” intrigued to Spears, and COL Brian Shiroyama, USAF (Ret), at A quarter-century after WWII, attend by a heartwarming article in Morgan Hill’s Buddhist Community Center. Photo Spears received the Distin- the San Jose Mercury News. courtesy of FFNV. guished Flying Cross for remark- able heroism in battle that saved ica’s “National Treasures” who humbly This was an historic union of like- American pilots in a crippled B-24 promulgated a legacy of honor, cour- minded WWII heroes who persevered bomber. Then in March 2007, Presi- age, fortitude and loyalty. with remarkable courage and endur- dent Bush awarded the Congressional ance in the face of societal and peer Gold Medal to Spears and his fellow On behalf of FFNV, Sakai presented discrimination based solely on skin Tuskegee Airmen. L-R:color—African-American Sandra Tanamachi, Marty heroes Higgins, respectful tributes to Spears, which Col Brian Shiroyama. (represented by Spears) and Japa- included a generous monetary-donation The WWII Japanese-American Sol- nese-American heroes (represented by to Spears’ Tuskegee organization which diers and Tuskegee Airmen share a nd Lawson Sakai, FFNV President). Also mentors “at-risk” youth; a 442 RCT compassionate understanding of those nd in attendance were several of Sakai’s shirt and 442 RCT cap; “The War” who unfairly discriminated against fellow WWII Nisei veterans who hardback by Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken them, and responded with grace and served in the 442nd RCT and MIS. Burns; and chocolate-delicacies. loyalty. As Spears remarked, “I can’t fault these people. . .Each one of us is Of his presentation and reception, Spears fascinated the audience with a product of our upbringing. . . That’s accounts of his Great Depression era Spears said, “It was one of the most the way things were. . .But changes memorable in my entire career.” It youth, brightened with his omnipres- are coming about.” Collectively, these ent obsession with flying. Never certainly was for all those who at- WWII Japanese-American Soldiers tended. daunted by artificial racial barriers, and Tuskegee Airmen represent Amer-

Japanese, is among the 75 Asian Pacific American generals JAVA Annual Luncheon Recap and admirals, including 35 Japanese Americans. Major General Thomas P. Bostick, Com- manding General, US Army Recruiting Ms. Lynn S. Heirakuji, Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) Command (pictured right), and the US of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (Personnel Army Freedom Team Salute (FTS) were Oversight) led the FTS in recognizing 15 JAVA Army veter- the twin features at JAVA’s Annual lunch- ans in an impressive ceremony. Launched in 2005, the eon on January 19 at the Harvest Moon objective of the FTS is to honor Army veterans, men and Restaurant at Falls Church, Virginia, at- women, of all generations who have served to defend the tended by 80 JAVA members and friends. United States. Heirakuji, a native of [continued on page 13]

Bostick, a graduate of West Point, discussed the criteria for selection for the modern army, the life qualities soldiers gain from military service, employers preference for military vet- erans, and the requirements for high quality recruits. Bos- tick said employers particularly are attracted to the disci- pline and knowledge of sophisticated technical equipment armed forces veterans bring to the private sector. A veteran of the Iraq War, Bostick paid high tribute to the World War II, Korean and Vietnam Wars Asian American veterans for paving the way for his generation to compete in the armed L-R: JAVA President Robert Nakamoto expressing appreciation to speakers: DAS Heirakuji, COL Griffith, MG Bostick. Photo by forces. Born in Japan, General Bostick, an African American Nelson Penalosa. APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 13 Texas Historical Marker Honors Japanese Rice Farmers On March 12, 2008, an historical marker was placed near Tay- lor Bayou in the town of Hampshire-Fannet, near the city of Beaumont, Texas, to honor two Japanese pioneer rice farmers, Yoshio and Yasuo Mayumi. They settled there in the early 1900’s to grow rice on 1,700 acres of land. In later years the residents of Hampshire-Fannet erected a road sign “Jap Road” to honor the Japanese farmers.

One day in 1992 Texas school teacher Sandra Tanamachi and her family decided to have lunch at a popular seafood restau- rant in Hampshire-Fannet. As they approached the restaurant, they noticed it was located on “Jap Road” as displayed on street signs. Incensed, her family returned promptly home. Tana- machi, whose uncle was killed in action while serving with the 442nd RCT in the Vosges Mountains of France while rescuing the trapped Texas Battalion encircled by the enemy, was angry to see this prominently displayed racial slur and vowed to get it removed. That incident began a 12 year campaign.

On July 19, 2004, the Jefferson County Commissioners of Texas voted to remove the derisive road sign and ordered the resi- dents to come up with a new street name. The commissioners decided to remove the street sign because they were reportedly embarrassed that their town had become a nation-wide issue. Commissioners of two other Texas counties soon followed the Jefferson County example. On August 2, 2004 the residents of Hampshire-Fannet voted on a new street name to replace the offensive sign and agreed to place a historical marker honoring the early Japanese settlers. Texas Historical Marker to honor Japanese rice farmers in early 1900's. Photo courtesy of Sandra Tanamachi [Full JAVA press release, including the entire inscription on the marker, available at www.javadc.org.]

JAVA Luncheon (continued from page 12) fight. Given this opportunity to serve,…you persevered, despite overwhelming odds, to achieve a performance record that stands to this day….Unlike the Army you encountered years ago, to- JAVA recipients of Army commendation. L-R: DAS Lynn Heirakuji, COL David M. Griffith, Bill Ta- day’s Army values diversity kakoshi, Dr. Ray Murakami, Gerald Yamada, Earl Takeguchi, Calvin Ninomiya, George Nakamura, and considers it to be one of Glenn Kikuchi, Fred Murakami, Wade Ishimoto, Norman Ikari, Dwight Gates, Lona Ichikawa, War- its core strengths…Units like ren Tsuneishi, Richard Kleeman. Photo by Nelson Penalosa the 442nd form the Army leg- acy. Army legacy is the tie Honolulu, Hawaii, was assisted by General George W. Casey, Jr., foun- that binds the past with the present COL David M. Griffith, USA, Direc- ders of the FTS program. Seventeen and infuses pride in today’s soldiers. tor of FTS, and FTS members Ms. other JAVA members who were not Your legacy is the ‘Go For Broke’ Cynthia Houston and Ms. Jean present are to be recognized at a spirit.” Davis, in presenting to each of the later date. veterans an Army lapel pin, a framed Information on FTS can be obtained certificate and a letter of appreciation As the daughter of a wounded 442nd from www.freedomteamsalute.com or signed by the Secretary of the Army veteran, Heirakuji said “the Army from Ms. Joan Davis Pete Geren and Army Chief of Staff reluctantly allowed you to join the [[email protected]]. PAGE 14 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008

C. Douglas Sterner Publishes Go For Broke Book

C. Douglas Sterner, authority of aly, its fight up the boot of Italy taking one mountain American heroism and prolific at a time, its denial of a triumphant entry into Rome, writer, has published a book on Nisei the 100th’s union with the 442nd RCT on June 11, 1944 experience in World War II. GO at Civitavecchia. The book also discusses the 100th- FOR BROKE: Nisei Warriors of 442nd combat at Belvedere, Leghorn-Pisa, Vosges World War II who conquered Ger- Mountains, including the rescue of the Lost Battalion, many, Japan and American Bigotry the Maritime Alps campaign and finally the return to is a 209 page book that describes the Italy for the penetration of the “impregnable” German 13,000 Japanese Americans who Gothic Line. Sterner also discusses the return to served in the European theater, the America of the 442nd RCT for the Presidential parade 3,000 who served in every operational military unit in Washington, DC on July 15, 1946 and deactivation from the Aleutian Islands to southeast Pacific and of colors in Hawaii. westward to Burma and China on the Asian conti- nent; and also the 3,000 additional Japanese linguists The book contains individual write-ups of Nisei Medal who served in the Occupation of Japan. of Honor and Distinguished Service Cross recipients, a unique and worthwhile feature of the book. Sterner discusses the incarceration of 120,000 per- sons of Japanese ancestry, over 50% of them US citi- GO FOR BROKE is available at Barnes and Noble zens, in US Army guarded camps. The young men, Book stores, Amazon.com, American Legacy Media who volunteered from behind these barbed wire enclo- Publishers, or 1-866-233-8165 (toll free). The price is sures, served the government that disowned them. $18.95 plus $3.77 shipping. The publisher is Ameri- The book also discusses the superior training record can Legacy Historical Press, website: of the 100th Infantry Battalion, its deployment to It- www.americanlegacymedia.com.

Speakers at HS Receive Favorable Response National Japanese American Me- Tsuneishi, Grant Ichikawa, Jean become familiar with the Nisei gen- morial Foundation (NJAMF) and Kariya, Barbara Nekoba and Terry eration experience, and take over JAVA speakers have made educa- Shima. when the original veterans can no tion presentations at three Mont- longer serve. You can join Sanseis gomery County high schools. One of the effects of this exercise is Gerald, Mary, Jean, and Barbara Speakers discuss the Japanese that these speaking engagements to perpetuate the legacy of the American WWII experience, the inspire students to select the Japa- WWII generation. The speakers four government measures nese American issue for research team would be delighted to have (Immigration and Nationality Act assignments. One head of a high your participation and can work of 1952; the Commission on War- school history department wrote, with you to become a historian. time Relocation and internment “[The NJAMF-JAVA presentation] Please contact any one of them or of Civilians, the Civil Liberties was timely as we have been study- [email protected] to obtain Act of 1998, and the construction ing World War II, and many stu- their contact information. of the National Japanese Ameri- dents elected to write about your can Memorial to Patriotism) to presentation as part of correct the damage caused by the an individual project forced incarceration, and the leg- they could choose to acy of the WWII generation on research. . . .We would future generations of Japanese love to have you back Americans. again next year during the same general time The speakers team consists of frame.” Gerald Yamada, Esq., Joe Ichiuji, Grant Hirabayashi, Mary Mura- The speakers team kami, Yeiichi Kelly Kuwayama, need Sansei and Yonsei Above: JAVA speaker addressing students at Srpingbrook Dr. Norman Ikari, Dr. Warren who can join the team, High School, Silver Spring, MD. PAGE 15 JAVA ADVOCATE APRIL 2008

can be readily downloaded from the JAVA Scholarship News by Calvin Ninomiya, Esq. JAVA website www.javadc.org. To expedite receipt, the application Students who have applied, or are plan- felt that adding an extra award for package should be sent ASAP to: ning to apply, for an award in the 2008 the first year of the scholarship pro- Calvin Ninomiya, JAVA Scholarship JAVA Memorial Scholarship Program gram would provide wonderful closing Program, 4828 Drummond Avenue, will be pleased to learn that an addi- boost for the program. Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815. Ap- tional $l,000 scholarship will be pro- plications submitted to the address vided this year. This means that four The other three scholarships, to be provided on the website will also be awards will be made. awarded at the JAVA luncheon on accepted. May 17, honor Orville C. Shirey, who The fourth award is a special gift from served with the 442nd RCT; Jack Mrs. Vi Takahashi, widow of former Tashiro, who was JAVA treasurer; JAVA member Gene Takahashi who and Douglas Ishio, son of S. Phil and In Our Thoughts died last year. Gene, a former IBM ex- Connie Ishio. Colonel Ishio was the ecutive, was recognized for his extraor- founder and first president of JAVA Joe Ichiuji is recovering from sur- dinary valor and exploits during the and currently serves on its Executive gery to implant a pacemaker. He is Korean war, and was profiled in a book Council. at Brighton Garden (a rehabilita- written by the late David Halberstam tion center), Room 520-B, 5550 Tuckerman Lane, Rockville, Mary- about that conflict. A three-person Scholarship Awards land. Visiting hours are 8:00 AM Committee, comprised of Dr. James to 8:00 PM. Joe is in good spirits Mrs. Takahashi, who lives in Westport, M. Furukawa, chair, Dr. J. Edgar A and would welcome visitors. Cards CT, advised the Scholarship Committee Wakayama, and Dr. Sue Okubo, will may be sent to his home, 6544 that she was particularly interested in judge the applications and choose the Windermere Circle; Rockville, MD having JAVA make a fourth scholarship four winners. 20852. award in memory of her husband who had died on May 15, 2007. JAVA scholarship program officials Always generous with his time, have urged that any person eligible to Joe has been in great demand as a Although information about the Takaha- apply should do so as soon as possi- speaker and by the press. Let's shi gift was unexpected, given the fact ble. The deadline for receipt of appli- offer our prayers to Joe for a that there is almost a month remaining cations is April 15, 2007. The form speedy recovery! for the submission of applications, it was and information about the program

JAVA and Cherry Blossoms by Dr. Warren Tsuneishi

On April 12 JAVA will highlight the contributions of Japa- Military Intelligence nese Americans in all of this nation’s conflicts since the Service during World Spanish-American War of 1898 as Washington D.C. holds War II, also will be its annual Cherry Blossom Festival and parade with thou- available for pur- sands expected to attend. chase.

The Sakura Matsuri Street Festival, sponsored by the Ja- The booth will be pan-America Society of Washington, D.C., celebrates staffed by JAVA American-Japanese friendship as the nation’s famed members who are JAVA Booth at 2007 Matsuri Street cherry blossoms are (hopefully) in full bloom. expected to greet hun- Festival. dreds of visitors at- For the fifth year in a row, JAVA will have a booth among tracted to the exhibit, which was designed as part of the or- scores of tents set up in a cordoned-off area at the center of ganization’s efforts to educate the public on the role played the city at Pennsylvania Avenue and 12th Street, NW. Also by Japanese Americans in all of the nation’s wars during the on display will be Japanese-American arts and crafts, cul- past century. ture, and food stands with sushi, yakitori and other foods. JAVA members staffing the exhibit will include 442nd veter- JAVA’s exhibit will include books, flyers, and posters on ans Joe Ichiuji, Norman Ikari, and Kelly Kuwayama, and past and current contributions to the U.S. military by Nik- WWII MIS veterans Stan Falk, Grant Hirabayashi and War- kei, including the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghani- ren Tsuneishi; Akio Konoshima (Korean War); Mike Yagu- stan. JAVA’s American Patriot, a book about the accom- chi, (Cold and Gulf Wars), and Lona Ichikawa (Operation plishments of the Japanese language specialists of the Iraqi Freedom). APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 16

Cross, and then authored the law that resulted in upgrad- TAPS: Shizuya Hayashi ing them to the Medal of Honor.

By Gregg K. Kakesako, Honolulu Star On Nov. 29, 1943 - the day after he turned 26 - Hayashi Bulletin, March 14, 2008 [Edited for was on patrol near Cerasuolo, Italy. “I really didn't know length] where we were,” Hayashi recalled. “I remember it being mountainous, with the Germans always looking down on Shizuya “Cesar” Hayashi, one of 22 us. That’s why there was always a lot of casualties. The Asian Americans whose Distinguished Germans always were so well camouflaged. Then there Service Cross medal was upgraded to were the 88 mm cannons, the ‘screaming meemies’ ... that the Medal of Honor (MOH) eight years took out a lot of the boys, catching them in the back.” ago, died of cancer on March 12, 2008. Armed with a Browning automatic rifle, Hayashi, a mem- ber of A Company, charged a German machine-gun nest, Hayashi, 90, was among the 20 mem- firing from his hip. “Things happened so fast that now it bers of the 100th Bn and the 442nd RCT who, decades later, seems so crazy.” He took out the machine-gun nest, killing won recognition for their heroism in World War II. Only seven men in the nest and two more as they fled. He then seven were alive to attend the special White House ceremony killed nine counter-attackers, took four prisoners, and in June 2000. Hayashi was drafted in March 1941 and was forced the remainder of the force to withdraw from the given the nickname “Cesar” because his sergeant could not hill. Hayashi recalls facing an armed teenage German pronounce his name. “I guess Cesar is closest they could get soldier. “He was crying, holding up his burp gun, but I to Shizuya,” Hayashi told the Star-Bulletin before the cere- couldn’t shoot him. I just told all of them to get up.” mony. “But my friends still call me Cesar today.” During the past few years, Hayashi, who lived in Pearl City, would routinely spend Yesterday, Sen. Daniel Inouye recalled sit- part of his day with other veterans tending ting next him at the White House before the gardens and buildings of the President Bill Clinton hung the Medal of Disabled American Veterans facility at Honor around their necks. “It was a hum- Keehi Lagoon. He is survived by a son and bling experience,” Inouye said, “and it was two daughters. made more touching and meaningful when I learned that Shizuya also shared my senti- ment: that we were accepting this special [In May 2004, Hayashi and fellow MOH honor on behalf of the men with whom we recipients Barney Hajiro and George Sa- served.” Sen. Daniel Akaka proved instru- kato, and Lost Battalion commander Marty mental in arranging the honors for the 22 Higgins served at the JAVA booth at the Asian Pacific American servicemen. He WW II Memorial dedication at the Wash- pressed the Pentagon to review the service ington, DC Mall. They responded to ques- records of Hayashi and his colleagues, who Hayashi receives the MOH from tions of visitors to the JAVA booth. All liv- President Bill Clinton in June had been awarded the Distinguished Service ing Nisei MOH awardees were designated 2000. Photo: Associated Press. to Honorary Member status in JAVA.]

legacy of the Japanese American experience during JAVA Seeks Volunteers World War II. Any one interested in filling one of these JAVA Education Chair: The education program has been positions should contact Terry Shima, 301-987-6746; launched with favorable results. Partnered with the Go For [email protected]. Broke National Education Center and the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation, the program is a teachers training in which teachers from Maryland and Virginia par- ticipated. Initially, JAVA’s task is to speak at schools and to Welcome New Members! provide background information. As the result, JAVA and NJAMF speakers have discussed the Japanese American ex- Frank Mizufuka (Daly City, CA) perience at three high schools, and two more speaking en- Edward Nakamura (Rancho Palos Verdes, CA) gagements are being arranged. JAVA Education Committee Franklin Odo (Washington, D.C.) Chair will provide leadership and execute the program. Mike Tsuji (Los Angeles, CA) * Henry Wadahara (San Jose, CA) Historian: JAVA was formed 14 years ago, and we need a Curtis Yamate (Los Angeles, CA) historian whose first task is to write a history of JAVA. JAVA Govan Yee (Azusa, CA) has had an exciting program of public education and veterans Mamoru Steve Yokoyama (Los Angeles, CA) camaraderie.

* Denotes Life Membership We believe these are two exciting positions to perpetuate the APRIL 2008 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 17

National Memorial Court at the Spending time with these wonderful From the Editor Japanese American Cultural & people reenergized my dedication to Community Center in Little Tokyo, perpetuate their legacy. THANK Los Angeles, which contains the YOU for the opportunities you ALL names of all Japanese Americans have created for the newer genera- who died in line of duty from the tions in this great country! sinking of USS Maine in Havana Harbor in 1898 to the present Gulf If you have comments, please email Wars. [email protected].

In early February I had lunch with JAVA lifetime member and recent Ranger Hall of Fame Inductee the Hon- orable Vincent Okamoto (above left) in Los Angeles, CA. What an honor it was to meet a living legend.

I also had a chance to catch up with my special friends JAKWV members (pictured from left to right) SGM Paul Ono and his lovely wife Sharlene, and Jerry Okata, the greatest chili pepper grower in the area! They devoted an entire afternoon and evening to take me to the Japanese American National Museum and to the Japanese American

Membership Dues: JAVA Membership Application Veterans, Active Duty, Reservists, National Guard: $30 Associate Member (non-veterans, spouses, widows of veterans): $20 Cadets, Midshipmen: $15 Date: Amount Enclosed:$ Life Membership: $300

Membership: † New † Renewal † Transfer Military Experience (if applicable):

Name: Rank: Dates of Service: Spouse’s Name: Military Campaigns:

Address: Awards/Decorations:

Telephone: (Home) Permission to publish the following on the JAVA website: Yes No (Office) Name † † Rank † † (Cellular) Dates of Service † † Military Campaigns † † Facsimile: (Home) Awards/Decorations † †

(Office) Please make checks payable Earl Takeguchi, Treasurer Email: to JAVA and mail to: 7201 White House Drive Springfield, VA 22153 JAPANESE AMERICAN VETERANS ASSOCIATION

1666 K Street, N.W., Suite 500 Washington, D.C. 20006 Postage

Visit our website: www.javadc.org

Please send correspondence to: General: Terry Shima, [email protected]; 301-987-6746 Michael Yaguchi, [email protected]; 703-729-1243 Membership: Marty Herbert, [email protected] Round Robin: Grant Ichikawa, [email protected] Newsletter: Kay Wakatake, [email protected] Speakers Bureau: Terry Shima (temporary) (see above) National Archives Research: Joe Ichiuji, [email protected]; 301-530-0336 Fumie Yamamoto, [email protected]; 301-942-3985 Quarterly Lunch: Grant Ichikawa, [email protected] Oral History: Dr. Warren Minami, [email protected], 301-279-8742 Education: Terry Shima (temporary) (see above)

UPCOMING EVENTS May 17: JAVA Quarterly luncheon, Harvest Moon Rest, Falls Church, VA. Announcement Apr 12, 11am: President and Executive Director will of Scholarship Awards speak at VFW Conference, Crown Plaza, Silver Spring, May 19, noon: Army Materiel Command APA MD Program, Ft Belvoir, VA Apr 12, noon: Cherry Blossom Festival; JAVA booth at May 19, 10am: Joe Ichiuji, Grant Hirabayashi, 12th and Pennsylvania Ave. Terry Shima at Defense Intel. Agency Apr 12, 2pm: Grant Ichikawa, Terry Shima in Library of May 25: JACL-JAVA Memorial Day Program at Congress Veterans History Project Program Arlington Cemetery. Lunch at China Garden, Apr 17: Gerald Yamada, Warren Tsuneishi, Kelly Ku- Rosslyn, VA. wayama, Mary Murakami, Terry Shima at Bryant HS, Al- May 26, 10am: Memorial Day Program at Ar- exandria, VA lington Cemetery; 2pm: JAVA participates in May 1, 11:30am: Lunch with Ben Kuroki, China Garden, National Memorial Day Parade Rosslyn, VA May 27: US Army Legal Services Agency APA May 1, 7:30pm: Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Program, Ballston, VA; Grant Ichikawa, Grant Theater features “Most Honorable Son: A Japanese Hirabayashi to speak. American B-24 Gunner in WW II.” Free admission, but May 31, 5:30pm: JA National Museum Donor tickets required; for tickets call 202-633-2398 or go to Wall Dedication, Los Angeles, CA http://www.nasm.si.edu/events/lectures/ticketsform.cfm Jun 5: 3rd Annual Unity Day Program at 5th May 7, 11:30-1pm: Federal Interagency Holocaust Re- Regiment Armory, Baltimore, MD membrance; Lincoln Theater, DC. Joe Ichiuji to speak Jun 14: JAVA Executive Council Meeting May 15: Veterans Day National Committee Meeting, Vet- Jul 3-5: JA National Museum Conference, Den- erans Affairs Office, DC ver, CO; JAVA is co-sponsor.