THE NATIONAL NEWSPAPER OF THE JACL Nov. 8-21, 2019

celebrating 9 0 y e a r s

Frank Watanabe in uniform in 1945

» PAGE 5 Novelist Dr. Andrew Lam » PAGE 6 Puts Focus on 442nd in RECOGNITION His Latest Book. » PAGE 12 Shane Sato Returns LONG OVERDUE With Vol. II of ‘Go for Frank Watanabe is finally Broke Spirit.’ awarded the Soldiers of WWII Congressional Gold Medal after a fire nearly extinguished that honor forever.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE WATANABE FAMILY

#3354 / VOL. 169, No. 9 ISSN: 0030-8579 WWW.PACIFICCITIZEN.ORG 2 Nov. 8-21, 2019 NATIONAL

HOW TO REACH US JAVA TO SPONSOR DAY OF Email: [email protected] Online: www.pacificcitizen.org Tel: (213) 620-1767 Mail: 123 Ellison S. Onizuka St., Suite 313 AFFIRMATION FOR NISEI SOLDIERS Los Angeles, CA 90012 July 15 will forever commemorate the legacy STAFF Executive Editor created by who served Allison Haramoto Senior Editor Digital & Social Media in the U.S. military during World War II. George Johnston Business Manager By Gerald Yamada, Susan Yokoyama Production Artist JAVA President Marie Samonte he executive council of the Circulation Eva Ting Japanese American Veterans Assn. approved a proposal The Pacific Citizen newspaper Tto designate July 15, starting in (ISSN: 0030-8579) is published semi-monthly (except once in 2020, as a Day of Affirmation to December and January) by the commemorate the legacy created Japanese American Citizens by the valor and sacrifices made by League, Pacific Citizen, 123 Ellison S. Onizuka St., Suite 313 Japanese Americans who served Los Angeles, CA 90012 in the U.S. military during World Periodical postage paid at L.A., CA War II. JAVA will lay a wreath at the World War II National POSTMASTER: Send address changes to National JACL, 1765 I have long felt that the Japanese Memorial in Washington, D.C., on July 15 to honor all Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 Japanese Americans who served during WWII. American community needed to JACL President: Jeffrey Moy have a special occasion to acknow- PHOTO: FACEBOOK Executive Director: David Inoue ledge what was accomplished by P.C. EDITORIAL BOARD those who choose to put country law.” This affirmation is inscribed veterans of WWII or lineal descen- Rob Buscher, chairperson; Ron first while their family and friends in the National Japanese American dants or ancestors of Japanese Ame- Kuramoto, MDC; Marcia Chung, were imprisoned in America’s war Memorial to Patriotism in World ricans who served during WWII. CCDC; Nancy Ukai, NCWNPDC; War II, located in Washington, D.C. JAVA will create on its website — Sheldon Arakaki, PNWDC; Kayla relocation internment camps. Watanabe, IDC; John Saito Jr., July 15 was selected because JAVA wants the Day of Affirma- JAVA @wildapricot.org — a simple PSWDC; Juli Yoshinaga, Youth Rep. tion to be the opportunity for our application process so that interested on July 15, 1946, President Harry SUBSCRIBE Truman received the returning community to remember and ex- persons can volunteer to be consi- must also be credited for making Get a one-year subscription of the 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Re- press our appreciation for how the dered to be part of the honor guard. Pacific Citizen newspaper at: redress a reality. Being reminded of gimental Combat Team at the White legacy created by the Nisei soldiers On July 15, 2021, JAVA has re- www.pacificcitizen.org or call that legacy is what changed President House Ellipse at Noon in the rain. has benefited and will continue to served the National Museum of the (213) 620-1767 Ronald Reagan’s decision not to veto, President Truman praised their benefit our community’s efforts to for a gala event ADVERTISE but to sign the Civil Liberties Act of battlefield accomplishments by say- fight prejudice and promote equal to honor the Nisei soldiers, in addition To advertise in the Pacific Citizen, 1988 (aka “redress legislation” or call (213) 620-1767 or e-mail: ing, “You fought the enemy abroad, justice under the law. to the wreath-laying ceremony at the “HR 442”) into law. [email protected] and you fought prejudice at home, On July 15, 2020, JAVA is planning World War II National Memorial Just before President Reagan signed LEGAL and you won. Keep up that fight, and to lay a wreath at the World War II earlier that day. Tours of the museum the redress legislation, he stated that No part of this publication may be we will continue to win.” National Memorial in Washington, will be a part of the evening event. “HR 442 was so fittingly named in reproduced without the express The president affirmed the decision D.C., at Noon to honor all of the A dinner committee is already being permission of the Pacific Citizen. honor of the 442nd (Regimental made by the Japanese American sol- Japanese Americans who served organized for this event. JAVA mem- Editorials, letters, news and the Combat Team).” When he signed opinions expressed by columnists diers to serve their country and fight during WWII. The memorial is bers and friends are asked to mark the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, he other than the national JACL for its ideals, as well as demonstrate located within sight of the White their calendars for these two events. stated, “Here we admit a wrong. president or national director do loyalty as their way to combat the House Ellipse. not necessarily reflect JACL policy. Here we affirm our commitment as prejudice that they faced at home. The honor guard each year will For more information, contact Events and products advertised in a Nation to equal justice under the consist of Japanese American [email protected]. the P.C. do not carry the implicit The legacy of the Nisei soldiers endorsement of the JACL or this publication. We reserve the right to edit articles. © 2019 Periodicals paid at Los Angeles, Calif. and mailing office.

JACL MEMBERS Change of Address SPRING The P.C.’s mission is to “educate on the past Japanese American experience and preserve, promote and help the current and future AAPI communities.” If you’ve moved, please send new CAMPAIGN information to: Name : National JACL 1765 Sutter St. Address 1: San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 921-5225 City : Phone Number : ext. 26 Allow 6 weeks for E-mail : address changes.

JACL MEMBER? To avoid interruptions in delivery, PLEASE USE MY CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS: please notify your postmaster to include P.C. Archive Project ______P.C. Production Costs ______periodicals in your change of address * Your donations will help build and preserve a cohesive library of the Pacific Citizen to educate future generations.* (USPS Form 3575) COMMENTARY Nov. 8-21, 2019 3 FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BETTER AMERICANS FOR A GREATER AMERICA

Both of these sites do well to honor the history faced by veterans upon their return? make sure that those are just the dots connecting and sacrifices of WWII Nisei veterans. Prior to coming to JACL, I worked at a medical what should be a regular recognition of our I would urge anyone visiting Washington, D.C., shelter for the homeless in Washington, D.C. veterans. to visit the memorial during the day to make Roughly 15 percent of our clients were veterans. Fight for improved funding and services from By David Inoue, sure you can catch every detail, but return at In the general population, veterans make up our Department of Veterans Affairs, as well JACL Executive Director night, when the memorial takes on a serenity only 7.3 percent, according to the most recent as continued reform of that agency. Hold our and peacefulness unrivaled by almost any other census estimate. politicians accountable to provide the oversight f there is one thing that all Americans monument in a city full of them. In the most recent homeless count by the of these programs, and not just show up for the today can agree upon in these especially Only then can you truly feel the full gravity of Department of Housing and Urban Development, Veterans Day services once a year. divisive times, it is the unimpeachable what faced the Japanese American community only 8.6 percent of veterans were homeless. The When we tell of what it means to be Japanese Iloyalty and dedication to country of our during WWII and the battles fought by the fact that veterans were requiring the services American and why we fight for civil rights, the World War II Nisei veterans. Nisei soldiers — both at the battlefront and at my previous workplace meant we were not story of our Japanese American veterans is a To appreciate the gravity of the sacrifices the home front. only failing them in preventing them from being vital part of that story. made by the Nisei veterans, you might visit Although we as a country have done much homeless, but also failing to provide adequate Also, take the time to stop and contemplate the Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism to recognize all of those who served during health care services, leading them to require the sacrifices others have made because of During World War II in Washington, D.C. WWII, and even the Korean War soon after, stays at our facility. their love of country, and ask yourself if you Alongside the panels listing the 10 War that has not always been the case. Japanese Americans have always been are taking full advantage of the opportunities Relocation Authority concentration camps The Vietnam War was a tragedy both for the supportive of our veterans, most of all our WWII given to you to make this country better. are panels listing the 810 Japanese American Vietnamese but also for the American soldiers vets, as well as those who have served since. We don’t all have to serve in the armed soldiers who gave their lives in service. we sent to fight that war. Like the Nisei veterans, For JACL, we have an additional imperative services to demonstrate our patriotism and The Go For Broke Monument in Los Angeles’ the Vietnam vets also fought a battle at home to support our veterans. As a civil rights love of country, but we must always find ways Little Tokyo neighborhood lists the 16,131 upon their return. organization, it is the right of veterans to be to celebrate and live out our nation’s ideals so Nisei soldiers who served in the 100th Infantry We have recognized our mistakes since and treated with dignity by our country, and we, as that we might all strive to be better Americans Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, do much to recognize those returning from the an organization, must work to preserve that right. for a greater America for everyone. Military Intelligence Service, 522nd Field more recent Gulf War and the ongoing war on So, as you pause this year on Veterans Day, Artillery Battalion, 232nd Combat Engineer terrorism. Sometimes that recognition can ring or perhaps at your next sporting event when David Inoue is executive director of the Company and the 1399 Engineer Construction hollow. Does everyone standing and applauding everyone rises to recognize the service of men JACL. He is based in the organization’s Battalion. at a baseball game really address the challenges and women in attendance and on the Jumbotron, Washington, D.C., office. NIKKEI VOICE CAN WE TALK? ABOUT ‘MISS SAIGON’? PHOTO: GIL ASAKAWA of “Miss Saigon” to decry its racial and sexual stereotypes — available, weak and submissive Asian women and ineffectual, impotent Asian men. In one much-publicized fiasco during a Madison, Wis., stop of this current tour, the By Gil Asakawa theater agreed to schedule a community panel discussion about the stereotype, then canceled et me say right upfront: I don’t like it at the last minute, pouring fuel on the fire “Miss Saigon.” of protest. (It should be noted that the New The musical has been a megahit staple York producers of the tour were all for the Lof the stage since it made its debut in London community panel discussion, but the theater in 1989 and then Broadway in 1991. It ran for canceled it.) a decade in New York and was revived in So, when the Denver Center for the Perfor- 2017. Touring versions have crisscrossed the ming Arts announced it was bringing “Miss U.S., including a stop in Denver in September. “Miss Saigon” DCPA posters Saigon” for a two-week run, a group of Asian “Miss Saigon” makes lots of money for its American Pacific Islander community members producers and the theaters that can accommo- alert), she kills herself so that Chris and his ago, and it seems even more outrageously met with DCPA management to share our date its huge and complex stage sets and large wife, Ellen, would be forced to take Tam back anachronistic and out-of-step today, in the concerns. To our surprise, they were open to number of cast members. It’s a popular musical with them and raise him in America, which #MeToo era, and with our heightened aware- our comments and willing to work with the with popular, instantly recognizable songs. had been her dream since the end of the war. ness of racial stereotypes, especially of Asians. community to find ways to make “Miss Saigon” But, I don’t like “Miss Saigon.” It’s a pretty conventional love story, and if The musical is about cultural and physi- a learning experience for audience members. If you don’t know the show’s plot, it’s about the specifics of the plot seem familiar, it’s cal imperialism, white privilege and savior For starters, they published accurate port- a Vietnamese woman and a white American because it’s a modernized version of Giacomo complex, as well as unabashed misogyny and rayals of Vietnamese refugees from our com- GI who fall in love during the last days of the Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” the 1904 opera sexism, written with a condescending attitude munity in interview articles on its website and Vietnam War. They’re married, and though about a white American naval officer who by white people looking back at a terrible and program book, telling their stories. he plans to take her back to the U.S., they get marries a Japanese woman, leaves her and tragic time in the history of Vietnam. We suggested a talk-back panel discussion separated during the fall of Saigon. Chris, the returns to Japan with his “real” wife, who is It’s not all awful and negative. The second with local Vietnamese community members, soldier, doesn’t find out until three years later white. The Japanese woman, Cio Cio (cho-cho act opens with “Bui Doi,” a touching num- and the DCPA countered that they could that Kim, his wife, had a son, Tam. By then, in Japanese means “butterfly”), kills herself ber about veterans and their responsibility schedule an unprecedented series of talk-backs he’s remarried to a white woman in Atlanta, at the end of the opera. for leaving behind the bui doi, or “dust of during the production and include members and together they travel to Vietnam to try and I don’t like “Madama Butterfly” either. life,” the Amerasian children left behind by of the cast and crew in addition to community establish a relationship with Kim and Tam. “Miss Saigon” hypnotizes its audiences with departing GIs. The song is the moral center members. Kim is devastated when she learns that its production pomp and dramatic musical of the production. Chris has remarried, and in the end (spoiler thrills, but the story is the same as a century There have been protests at many productions » See SAIGON on page 4 4 Nov. 8-21, 2019 COMMUNITY/COMMENTARY CITY OF WATSONVILLE HONORS Present during NVN ANNOUNCES STUDENT DR. MASAKO MIURA the proclamation ceremony honoring VIDEO CONTEST: ‘THE Dr. Masako Miura were (front row, kneeling) Rev. Dan Hoffman of IMPACT OF A NISEI SOLDIER’ Westview Presbyteri- reservation an Church, Marcia and and edu- Mas Hashimoto and cation a re (back row, from left) Pimportant goals of Diane Mio, Jane the National Vete- Yoshida, Gary and rans Network. The Cindy H. Mine, NVN is holding a Watsonville Chief of national video con- selfless service, honor, integrity Police David Honda, test for high school students that and personal courage. The video Hans and Sandra Goto, encourages them to study the should be no more than three to Sean Sheehan and stories of Japanese American four minutes in length. Victor Kimura. World War II soldiers. PHOTO: WATSONVILLE-SC JACL There will be a committee of The competition seeks judges that will determine the presented to Miura’s son, Hans Goto, Hashimoto went on to describe videos from individual students winner of the contest. Judging during a ceremony that also included how Dr. Masako Miura, along with that shares the impact of a Japa- criteria includes: how well the a speech by Watsonville-Santa Cruz her then-husband, Dr. James Goto, nese American Nisei Soldier story video reflects the value of the JACLer Mas Hashimoto. protected JACLer Masaru Fred Ta- on their personal lives. Nisei soldiers, its relevance to Miura, who also is a longtime yama in December 1942 by hiding The contest is open to high today and historical accuracy. member of the JACL Watsonville- him in at the “hospital,” school students in the U.S. The The winner of the national con- Santa Cruz chapter, was unable to sandwiched between two mattresses, NVN will accept submissions test will be invited to Washington, attend the evening ceremony but was in order to keep him safe from a pro- thru Dec. 31, 2019. Students are D.C., to visit the National Muse- PHOTO: SANDRA GOTO presented with her proclamation the Japan group who was threatening to select the story of a Nisei sol- um of the United States Army, Dr. Masako Miura with next day by her son. him with bodily harm. dier, either from the Nisei Sol- where he/she will be able to meet her son, Hans Goto, and In his remarks, Hashimoto said, As a result of their heroic actions, dier Congressional Gold Medal veterans, their families and see the proclamation given to “Thank you for this proclamation the Gotos were removed from Man- Smithsonian Digital Exhibition the exhibits about the WWII Ni- her by the City Council of honoring a most highly respected Ja- zanar and sent to Topaz, Utah, in (http://cgm.smithsonianapa.org/ sei soldiers. The winner will also Watsonville, Calif. panese American in our country. Dr. order to protect them, too, from index.html) or a relative who is receive a prize package of $300 Masako Miura stands with our most violence by the pro-Japan group. a Japanese American WWII ve- and travel accommodations. notable Japanese Americans Fred At the conclusion of the war, Dr. teran. The student is then asked he City Council of Watson- Korematsu, Gordon Hirabayashi, Miura went on to work at Los An- to create a video to describe the For more information about ville, Calif., honored Dr. Minoru Yasui, Mitsue Endo (all geles County General Hospital, as impact of the soldier’s story on the video contest, along with Masako Miura, 105, with Supreme Court cases), Sen. Daniel well as the Los Angeles City School their life today. complete rules and submis- Tan official proclamation on Oct. 22 K. Inouye, Sen. Spark Matsunaga, District and then from 1955 until her The video should incorporate sion information, visit http:// to celebrate her birthday and honor Congressman Bob Matsui, Cong- retirement in 1981, served as a civil one more of the following Army nationalveteransnetwork.com/ her lifetime work as a physician and ressman Norm Mineta and with service physician in the U.S. Army values: loyalty, duty, respect, exhibit.shtml. U.S. government civil servant. our JACL leaders of World War II, hospitals in Oakland and later Fort Signed by Watsonville Mayor Fran- Mike Masaoka, Saburo Kido and Ord (Monterey) for soldiers, veterans, cisco Estrada, the proclamation was Fred Tayama.” retirees and their dependents. n

SAIGON continued shelf to turn to dust. All of the DCPA’s efforts allowed » room for dialogue around the troubling issues that still I also helped research facts about Vietnam, the war, pervade the production. And that, to me, is a big win — its aftermath, pop culture trivia and movies and books just to be able to have the conversation. for more information, which the DCPA printed on a So, can we talk? triptych of huge poster boards that audience members clustered around and read before the curtain calls. Gil Asakawa is former chair of the Pacific Citizen I don’t like “Miss Saigon.” But it’s unrealistic to think Editorial Board and author of “Being Japanese that we can make the musical go away and be put on a American” (Second Edition, Stone Bridge Press, 2015). He blogs at www.nikkeiview.com. IN-DEPTH Nov. 8-21, 2019 5

“Repentance” is author/doc- PHOTOS: COURTESY OF DR. ANDREW LAM tor Andrew Lam’s third book.

Dr. Andrew Lam with Dr. Susumu Ito, a professor at Harvard Medical School who also served in the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion during World War II. Dr. Andrew Lam NOVELIST ANDREW LAM, M.D., PUTS FOCUS ON 442 RCT

The retinal surgeon moonlights to spotlight a fictional Nisei soldier. later years, photos he took while in Europe as he served in the Army were the subject of By P.C. Staff Andrew Lam spends the bulk of his workday Americans to know their story.” an exhibition at the Japanese American Na- practicing medicine and serving as an assis- The plot of “Repentance” is the journey — tional Museum in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo. he first question one has to ask when tant professor at the University of Massachu- with a surprise twist or two — of a superstar During the six-year quest to write and have talking over the phone to author setts Medical School and Tufts University Sansei heart surgeon named Daniel Toku- “Repentance” published, Lam met Ito. Andrew Lam is, “Do I have the right School of Medicine. naga who has a fraught relationship with his “I had many back-and-forths with Dr. Ito. TAndrew Lam?” Nevertheless, Lam, 43, has managed to Nisei father, a heroic 442nd veteran who is I visited him, and he showed me all his mem- That’s because there is another Andrew write three books in his spare time, with hiding a decades-old secret, as well as a less orabilia, which was a real treat,” Lam said. Lam — who happens to be Vietnamese “Repentance” (Tiny Fox Press, 283 pp., overtly strained relationship with his Japa- “He endorsed the book, which was great, but American — who has also gained renown as ISBN: 978-1-946501-12-7, $15.95) having nese American mother, who has a secret past he passed away, unfortunately, in 2015, so he a writer. been preceded by “Saving Sight,” a non- of her own. never got to see the final, final version. The author of the novel “Repentance,” fiction book about being an eye surgeon, As Tokunaga tries to reconcile his relation- “He’s probably the person who I feel most which was released last spring, however, is and “Two Sons of China,” another work of ship with his parents, he must also take steps connected to who was actually a veteran,” not only a different Andrew Lam, he also is historical fiction. to salvage his marriage to a white American Lam continued. younger, Chinese American, lives near the Said Lam: “I basically write about World woman who has spent most of their mar- Ito would no doubt be happy to learn East Coast and is a physician — a retinal War II and history.” riage doing the heavy lifting of raising their that, according to Lam, sales of the book surgeon, to be precise. The subject matter of “Repentance” fits now-grown offspring because Daniel put have thus far exceeded its publisher’s “More than once, someone has come to a that description. his work first, causing her to let die her own expectations. book talk or one of my patient’s has come “As a writer, my main goal is to basically career aspirations. Daniel’s upbringing, not “I just love the fact that people are reading with one of his books for me to sign,” Dr. shine a light on aspects of our history that surprisingly, had a direct effect on his rela- it and learning so much about the 442nd and Lam laughed. Although they have yet to aren’t necessarily well-known but deserve to tionship with his wife. the Japanese American experience during cross paths, he says he’d love to meet the be,” Lam told the Pacific Citizen. “I knew Inspired as Lam was by meeting 442nd the war,” he said. other Andrew Lam. about the story of the 442nd because I actu- vets in Hawaii, it was a mainland Nisei vet- Although not autobiographical, Lam drew (In an odd sort of way, though, Lam is ac- ally spent a year in Hawaii for my medical eran — and fellow physician — who served on his own experience as a surgeon and tually someone one would not want to meet internship, and I met many veterans. One as his sensei and guide to all things 442nd. family man to lend credibility to the professionally. That’s because those who day I was in church, and there was a guy Enter Dr. Sus character of the novel’s protagonist. come to see him are referred by other doc- sitting next to me — he was in the 442nd. Susumu Ito was a physician and professor tors who can’t help their patients, meaning “I knew about them just from history, but at Harvard Medical School who, as a young one would have a very serious condition, getting to know them personally —meeting man, served in the 522nd Field Artillery Bat- » See NOVELIST on page 8 such as a detached retina.) them — was very valuable,” Lam continued. talion, the artillery arm of the Referring to his literary namesake, whom “So, when I decided to start a book on the 100th Battalion/442nd Regi- he described as a “full-time writer,” this 442nd, my goal was to get more mainstream mental Combat Team. In his

SAKAI, KIYOMURA AND SATO TELL A ‘442’ TALE VIA GRAPHIC NOVEL ublished earlier this year, “442” is a graphic novel Rescue of the Lost Battalion. from writers Koji Steven Sakai and Phinneas Kiyo- “To my surprise, that’s the one they took,” Sakai said. “Part mura and illustrator Rob Sato. The 80-page graphic of the deal with them was that I had all of the other rights Pnovel originated via Lynnwood, Wash.-based Stela, which outside of it because I wanted more people to see the story.” has been described as Netflix for graphic novels delivered According to Sakai, illustrator Sato “works perfectly to one’s digital device. because his grandfather was [a member of the] 442nd, so he According to Sakai, Stela approached him about doing had a connection.” a project, and he pitched five ideas — one on zombies, an To read “442,” it will cost $9.99 for a monthly Stela “442” is an 80-page graphic novel that “follows action story, a superhero story, a drama — and, because he subscription. Or, the printed version can be purchased for young Japanese American soldiers as they suffer likes to include at least one Asian American story when $9.99 via Amazon.com. (Be sure to visit PacificCitizen.org prejudice, internment and terrible casualties in opportunities like that come up, one on the 442nd and the first and click on the Amazon banner before you order!) their battle to rescue the Lost Battalion.” 6 Nov. 8-21, 2019 IN-DEPTH

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE WATANABE FAMILY Frank Watanabe with his parents, Risaku and Teruyo Watanabe

Margaret and Frank Watanabe on their wedding day, March 10, 1961

The Watanabe family in 2011 for Frank and Margaret’s 50th wedding anniversary

Young Frank GO FOR GOLD: Watanabe

DELAYED RECOGNITION FOR Frank Watanabe A VET’S FAMILY’S QUEST Modest in life, a passed-over Frank Watanabe is finally recognized after his death. By P.C. Staff especially in his twilight years. Nisei Soldiers of WWII Like thousands of other first-generation Congressional Gold Medal (Editor’s note: The Sept. 13-26, 2019, Pacific Japanese and their second-generation American Citizen contained a story about the posthu- offspring living along the U.S. West Coast with mous recognition given to Frank Watanabe, the advent of World War II, the Watanabe family who did not receive the Congressional Gold was removed from their home to be incarcer- Alysa Sakkas offers remarks upon accepting Medal awarded to Nisei who served in the ated in one of 10 U.S. concentration camps, her father’s Congressional Gold Medal. Also military during WWII. The following article is in their case, the Gila River War Relocation present during the posthumous award cer- a more detailed account of Watanabe’s story.) Authority Center in Arizona. emony were Congressman Ro Khanna (left) Before that, the young Watanabe learned to and Consul General of Japan in San Francisco he July 13, 1973, Associated Press dis- appreciate music. According to an autobio- Tomochika Uyama. patch from Overland, Mo., described a graphical essay he wrote for a family member, conflagration as follows: “A fire on the he first learned the violin, then the trumpet. Tsixth floor of the massive Military Personnel “In the seventh grade, I became the solo Record Center raged out of control in this St. trumpet in the school marching band and the Louis suburb Thursday night. Weary firemen first chair brass in the orchestra,” he wrote. Frank Watanabe makes a speech continued efforts to save military files housed But Watanabe’s “consuming interest” as a at a JACL Detroit chapter event. in the building.” Items not burned or damaged boy was model airplanes. by the flames sustained water damage. He wrote, “I started building balsa stick and advance to have the Reedley branch of Bank The article also reported, according to the Japan tissue models from kits since I was 6 of America hold his investment accounts and General Services Administration, that the re- years old, and because I had no mentors, I allow him to manage his checking account pository contained the “records of 56 million learned to read the Model Airplane News by mail, before becoming Family No. 40411. members and former members of all branches hobby magazine and technical publications. Watanabe graduated from Gila River’s of the military,” including “about 9 million “By the time I reached the eighth grade, Canal High School, where he served as class Frank Watanabe served as chairman from World War II.” I was as familiar with advanced topics as the president (“I made shambles of my office,” he to the 1964 JACL National Convention. In addition, it noted that the “loss of the Davis laminar airfoil, which made the B-24 wrote in his essay) at age 17, having already He is pictured here in an article from records is expected to create problems that and P-51 American war planes great,” he con- skipped two grades, according to Aguinaldo. the Pacific Citizen. could take years to solve.” tinued in his essay. It was a hobby and aptitude After graduation and with help from the For the family of the late Frank Watanabe, that no doubt augured his future career as a Religious Society of Friends and after being tank battalion,” Sakkas told the Pacific Citizen. that assessment proved to be all too true. mechanical engineer. cleared by the WRA, Watanabe enrolled at the Her father had high test scores and to reach ◊◊◊ Before he would embark on that journey, University of Detroit. this goal, he studied military strategy. But when Shunso Frank Watanabe, who died at 92 on however, Watanabe and his family would “My camp life was ended by being launched he told his superiors of this aspiration, Sakkas June 18, was born on April 9, 1927, in Reedley, first need to deal with life at Gila River. With into my new world by Quakers who enrolled said they told him, “We would never let some- Calif., to emigrants from Japan’s Hiroshima- America’s entry into WWII, Frank’s father, me, a Buddhist farm boy, at an urban Catholic one like you do a job like that.” Translation: ken. A mechanical engineer by training who Risaku, foresaw the imminent fate of West university by the authority of an almost- You’re Japanese, so you don’t get to do that. spent decades in Detroit’s automotive industry, Coast ethnic Japanese and therefore made unknown government agency,” he wrote. Instead, Watanabe was sent to serve in his name is on more than 150 patents, many preparations. After just one year at the University of the Military Intelligence Service to further in control systems for electronics. “While facing the total devastation of the Detroit’s College of Engineering, the govern- strengthen his Japanese language skills in areas Both of his daughters, Alysa Sakkas and lifestyle he had built, his main concern was ment would again intervene in his life when such as the translation of documents, serving Kari Aguinaldo, characterize him as brilliant, to keep the family together in one camp. He Watanabe was drafted into the Army. as an interpreter or interrogating Japanese yet humble. His interests were wide-ranging, calmly sold the farm equipment, the family ◊◊◊ prisoners of war. from the practical, as evidenced by his many car and personal possessions,” Watanabe wrote “When he was in the Army, his dream — he patents, to the philosophical and spiritual, of his father’s actions, including arranging in told my husband and I this — was to lead a » See QUEST on page 8 ADVERTISEMENT Nov. 8-21, 2019 7 Where it all began… at the Presidio of San Francisco

Now on display Join in the support of the Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning @ MIS Historic Learning Center Center at Building 640 in our nation’s National Park—the Presidio of Dislocation & Divergence: San Francisco and honor the 4,000 MIS soldier linguists who served Causes & Consequences of EO 9066 Open on Weekends: 12-5 PM during World War II and the Allied Occupation of Japan. Wed-Fri: Group Tours by appointment 640 Mason Street, Crissy Field West, The story… historic significance. Spearheaded by the National Presidio of San Francisco, Japanese American Historical Society, Inc. (NJAHS) San Francisco CA 94129 On the eve of war with Japan on November 1, 1941, together with the National Park Service and The 415-921-5007, [email protected] the US Army secretly recruited 59 Japanese American Presidio Trust, and bolstered by grass roots support (Nisei) and 2 Caucasian soldiers for the coming war. from the JACL, and veterans groups, this effort has Trained in the utmost secrecy as military linguists, save the building site. In 2013, we opened our doors these enlisted men comprised of the first class at to this new adaptive reuse project—an interactive MIS Building 640 at Crissy Field in the Presidio of San Historic Learning Center devoted to the MIS legacy of Francisco. From its humble beginnings, the MIS grew peace and reconciliation. To date, the campaign has to over 4,000 graduates, and evolved in the today’s raised $5 million in private and public support. renowned Defense Language Institute and Foreign Language Center at the Presidio of Monterey. Today NJAHS seeks matching private dollars to ensure its long-term viability. Serving in every major battle and campaign in the Pacific Theatre of War, while their families languished What you can do… behind barbed wire in America’s concentration camps pursuant to , the Nisei MIS were Honor the legacy and make a contribution to the MIS House Speaker Nancy Pelosi with MIS Veterans credited for shortening the war by two years. Historic Learning Center. Gifts beginning at $2,500 during annual Veterans Day Event at Building 640 and up will be recognized on the new Commemorative (11/15/2014). During the Occupation of Japan, the MIS worked to Donor Wall. Naming Opportunities are also available. establish a lasting democracy and peace. For their role, the MIS have been honored with a Presidential Join us to realize the dream! Unit Citation in 2000, and with a Congressional To learn more, th Gold Medal in 2011 along with veterans of the 100 Call 415-921-5007 nd Battalion and 442 Regimental Combat Team. visit www.njahs.org/mis or email: [email protected] The place.

Set in the breathtaking Presidio of San Francisco National (a designated National Historic Landmark District of Japanese Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning American Center at Building 640 in the Presidio of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, National Historical San Francisco. Park Service), Building 640 stands as a place of Society

The MIS Historic Learning Center is joint project of National Japanese American Historical Society, The Presidio Trust and Golden Gate National Recreation Area / National Park Service 8 Nov. 8-21, 2019 IN-DEPTH

QUEST » continued from page 6 the Congressional Gold Medal was awarded, was talking about, and that’s why my father I asked him, ‘Are you going to get one?’ and was never recognized as being a member of PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE WATANABE FAMILY he said, ‘No, no one’s notified me.’” the MIS,” Sakkas said. Frank Watanabe Sakkas insisted that he must be eligible, but ◊◊◊ (seated at center) her father played it off. She remembers him Sakkas later contacted the office of U.S. Rep. is pictured with the saying that maybe he didn’t serve long enough. Ro Khanna, whose district includes Cupertino, 1964 JACL National “He just kind of left it at that,” Sakkas Calif., to inquire whether her father was eli- Convention board. said. Aguinaldo corroborated that conversa- gible for the Congressional Gold Medal and tion. “When my sister told him she wanted provided her father’s pertinent information. to research it, he said, ‘Aww, it’s so long Meantime, Watanabe’s health was deterio- ago, who cares? Nobody’s going to care,’” rating. Death came quickly and painlessly. Aguinaldo said. That same day, June 18, Sakkas received a When Watanabe was approaching his 88th call from Rep. Khanna’s office. “They called Sakkas said her father, how- birthday or beiju, Sakkas decided to collect me literally two hours after he died to say, ever, didn’t want to join the MIS. some memorabilia to celebrate it, and she ‘We’re just getting back to you. It’s been a long “He told us that during some of contacted the Defense Language Institute. She time, but we figured out that your father did the testing, he would purposely thought, perhaps, she might be able to get a earn the Gold Medal, and so we’re wondering try to score low because he was copy of his diploma. when we can present it to him.” really hoping to get a different Frank Watanabe became a She was taken aback to learn it had no re- The Nisei Congressional Gold Medal was assignment,” she laughed. He mechanical engineer following cords from the first two years of the Institute. presented to Watanabe’s family at a Town Hall did not get his wish. his service in the MIS. Watanabe did mention, in passing, that there Meeting on Aug. 24. Watanabe nevertheless com- had been a fire that destroyed the records of “I felt like he was sending me a sign,” Sakkas pleted the MIS training, going many veterans. “I didn’t pursue it any further,” said of a phone call she would then receive on active duty on Aug. 31, 1945. serving as its president one year and chairman she said. from Rep. Khanna’s office. “You’re the only WWII, meantime, would officially end on of the 1964 JACL National Convention. According to Sakkas, her father was very one who cared about this. I don’t care about Sept. 2, 1945. When they were old enough, the sisters both conscientious about his health and made sure it, so he taps someone on the shoulder and “He used to say he was in the first graduat- moved to California, where they would spend to exercise to maintain it. But a couple of years says, ‘OK, you can call her now.’” ing class of the Defense Language Institute in their summers with relatives. According to after his 88th birthday, he encountered some In retrospect, Sakkas realizes that her father’s Monterey,” Sakkas said. Watanabe was honor- Sakkas, after her father retired, Margaret said, health problems and needed in-home care. situation, i.e., not being recognized because of ably discharged on Dec. 5, 1946. It wasn’t a “Now that you’re retired, what are we doing “One of my friends said, ‘Your dad was a the records fire from 1973 was unusual, but long stint — but serve he did. in Michigan, when both of our daughters live veteran. Well, my dad was a veteran, and he not necessarily unique, might prove valuable After leaving the Army, Watanabe returned in California and we have two grandkids who gets 40 hours of in-home care paid for. You to others. to Michigan’s University of Detroit and earned live in California?” should really look into whether your father is “My hope is that there are other people his bachelor’s degree. He then attended Wayne Watanabe, however, loved Michigan and eligible for anything,” Sakkas recalled. who find out that they have relatives who State University to obtain his master’s degree its four seasons and thought his family would When she inquired with the Department of should have received this award but did not,” in mechanical engineering and went on to work return. Veterans Affairs to see if Watanabe was eli- Sakkas said. for Kelsey-Hayes Corp., where he worked on “My dad said, ‘Eventually, they’re going gible for any benefits, however, she was told One remaining mystery is her father’s the initial patent for the disc brake. to move back to this house.’ And I said, ‘No, it had no record of him ever having served in first name. Although he mainly went by his “He probably would have stayed with them we’re not,’”said Sakkas. So, the Watanabe’s the military. middle name, Frank, his first name is for his entire career,” said Sakkas, “but they moved back to California in the early 2000s “I told my dad, ‘The VA doesn’t even have spelled Shunso. But Sakkas found that in a were swallowed up in a merger, and he lost and found a house in Cupertino, when it was any record of your service,’” Sakkas said. book on Japanese American veterans his job in the process.” relatively more affordable than today. But Watanabe did know exactly where his and engraved on a wall at the Defense Watanabe eventually found work at firms ◊◊◊ discharge documents were. Therefore, Sakkas Language Institute in San Francisco is the such as American Motors Corp., Bendix Corp., In 2010, President Barack Obama signed into sent a copy to the VA and was told that the name Shunzo F. Watanabe. Rockwell International and the Ford Motor law a bill that would award the Congressional records between a certain time period and part Meantime, Sakkas looked on her father’s Co., where he was employed when he retired. Gold Medal collectively to the Nisei who of the alphabet were lost in the 1973 fire. It birth certificate, where it’s spelled Shiyunso In 1961, he and Margaret Ueki were married. served in 100th Battalion/442nd Regimental therefore accepted as authentic the copy of Watanobe, with both names mangled. They later lived in Livonia, Mich., and raised Combat Team and MIS during WWII. Watanabe’s DD214. Unlike the outcome on the Gold Medal, the their two daughters, Alysa and Kari. Watanabe Sakkas remembers talking about that develop- “It dawned on me that that was the fire the reasons behind the mysterious spellings may was active in the Detroit JACL chapter, even ment with her father: “So, when I heard about guy (from the Defense Language Institute) never be completely solved. n

map of Bruyères and the mountains, and also stress disorder, while invisible, can mani- NOVELIST » continued from page 5 connect that with the people who have been fest as depression, psychosis or anxiety in “Since I’m a doctor, I knew I could benefit ued. “You can have all the greatest history on reunions.” ways that can be as devastating as an actual from showing the realism of being a surgeon in the world, but if the story isn’t compelling Part of the six years it took to finish the physical wound. because I not only know what it’s like to be and the characters are not compelling, then book was also in the rewriting, in order to “PTSD can literally change people’s in the OR to deal with complications but also nobody is going to read it, and it’s not going get the relationships down properly. personality,” he said. what it’s like to be in a family where one of to be a success.” “The father-and-son relationship is so criti- As for his next writing project, Lam was the spouses has a very demanding job.” The saga of the 100th Battalion/442nd cal because it ties into paternalism, the im- cagey about what the subject matter will be. portance of education in the achievements “I learned after I wrote my first book Prescription for Success Regimental Combat Team is, in and of itself, as compelling a story as anyone could ask we see in the Asian American community (‘Saving Sight’) not to mention what my next For Lam, writing historical fiction is a and families — and then, of course, the sac- book is going to be because you don’t know creative outlet that uses different parts of for. Researching that history and combining it with compelling characters took time to rifices that were made [during] internment. when that’s going to come out,” he said. Lam his brain than what he uses for his medical That was a huge part of it. did allow, however, that it may be similar to endeavors. But he has bigger goals than just be done right. For example, in the 442nd’s famed Rescue of the Lost Battalion in the “I’m not Japanese American,” Lam contin- his first book, which was nonfiction. telling random stories. ued. “So, as an Asian American, I understand And, should Hollywood come a-knockin’ “The ultimate goal, of course, is to share Vosges Mountains in France in October 1944, Lam noted how shrapnel from trees there are some similarities between Chinese to see about adapting his novel into a motion history with people, especially people who Americans and Japanese Americans grow- picture in this post-“Crazy Rich Asians” era, wouldn’t necessarily want to pick up a hit by artillery bursts could be as deadly as bullets. ing up in our society, but I still had to take a Lam wouldn’t slam the door in a producer’s nonfiction book,” he said. “I like histori- little bit of a leap — that people would con- face. But as an ophthalmologist, he knows cal fiction because it entertains, but it also He also cited how Internet tools like Google Earth could give one a realistic sider what I’d written to authentic.” it’s better to keep his eyes focused on reality. reaches an audience that wouldn’t necessar- Lam added that he also wanted the book “I’ve already been though the process with ily think that they’d be interested in history, picture of the terrain of places like the French town of Bruyères, where the 442nd to be a page-turner, balanced by well-devel- my other novel (‘Two Sons of China’),” he for example. oped characterizations to make it succeed. said. “The stark reality is that even if your “The other thing that I realized long ago fought, as well as the mountains. “The Internet was enormously helpful be- As a physician, he also wanted to incorpo- book gets optioned for a film, the odds of it when I started writing is that in historical rate how for some, PTSD or post-traumatic being made are extremely slim.” n fiction, the story is paramount,” Lam contin- cause you can literally get a Google Earth COMMENTARY Nov. 8-21, 2019 9 REIMAGINE EVERYTHING WHY AARP CARES Who Is a Caregiver? A “family caregiver” is defined as an adult age 18 or older who is providing unpaid short- By Ron Mori term or long-term care to a parent, spouse, friend or other adult loved one who needs help am very fortunate to be surrounded by with everyday activities and personal tasks dedicated individuals and teams working such as transportation, managing finances, on all things related to aging and caregiving scheduling appointments, shopping, bathing, Iat AARP. One area very close to my heart dressing, preparing meals, wound care and/ is caregiving. AARP is striving to make it or medication management. Family and friends are the backbone of easier for older people to live independently New AARP America’s care system, providing the bulk and remain in their homes and communities guides of care for older people in the U.S. as they where they prefer to be, surrounded by family available strive to live independently. If you are not and friends. now By providing planning resources and currently a family caregiver, at some point additional forms of support to family in your life you either will be a caregiver or caregivers, AARP hopes to create a country need a caregiver. health and financial problems: Family caregiving is harder and more do for free can be harder than a job in the where people can continue to live in their • 38 percent of family caregivers report homes and communities for as long as they complicated than ever as families have paid workforce. Workplace policies that increasing demands on their time. Many support employee caregivers can also benefit high emotional stress from the demands choose. of caregiving. To help achieve this, AARP is supporting family caregivers don’t think of themselves companies by enhancing productivity and as caregivers — they see themselves as sons, enabling workers to keep up with their duties. • Nearly half (46 percent) of higher-hour (21 the millions of family caregivers who provide or more hours per week) caregivers report unpaid care to their loved ones with resources daughters, spouses and friends just doing what Almost 3 out of 4 workers age 40 and older say families do for each other. that allowing work flexibility for caregiving high levels of emotional stress. and tools. AARP also continues advocating • More than half (55 percent) of family for and providing better quality, affordable Today, family caregivers are asked to carry would help improve work/life balance. out health care tasks that would make a first- caregivers report being overwhelmed by the and accessible services to help older people amount of care their family member needs. live independently and the family caregivers year nursing student tremble (like wound care, Emotional and Financial Impact of who help them. tube feedings) without adequate training. Caregiving The job of caregiving that family members Family caregivers are at risk of emotional, » See AARP on page 12

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www.elderlawcalifornia.com 800-403-6078 10 Nov. 8-21, 2019 CALENDAR A NATIONAL GUIDE TO NOTABLE COMMUNITY EVENTS light on this painful history as well members Thru Feb. 7, 2021 as provide a safe space for discus- Create a unique family memory Institute for Contemporary Art sion with the hope that such events in a gorgeous setting during this 25 Harbor Shore Dr. never happen again. opportunity to take a photo with An icon of contemporary art, Yayoi Info: Visit www.janm.org. Santa as well as enjoy a self-guided Kusama has interwoven ideas of tour of this historic home that is pop art, minimalism and psychede- CALENDAR decorated with 10 themed Christ- lia throughout her work in paintings, Portraits Los Angeles, CA mas trees and antique toys. performances, room-size presen- NCWNP Thru Nov. 24 PNW Info: Visit https://www.valleyhistory. tations, outdoor sculptural instal- George J. Doizaki Gallery org/index.php?id=16. lations, literary works and more Kimochi Silver Bells 244 S. San Pedro St. Asian American Santa & Gift Craft Fair during her influential career. This San Francisco, CA Price: Free and Open to the Public Seattle, WA exhibit is the most immersive and Dec. 14; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This exhibition brings together the Dec. 7; Noon-3 p.m. MDC kaleidoscopic of the artist’s Infinity The Event Center at St. Mary’s Cathedral stories of the Japanese American Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific Mirror Rooms. For the 90-year-old 1111 Gough St. soldiers who fought in America’s American Experience Hoosier JACL Annual Holiday Luncheon artist, this exhibit represents the Price: Free; Complimentary shuttle wars and the works of photog- 719 S. King St. Indianapolis, IN culmination of her artistic achieve- service available to/from Japantown rapher Shane Sato, whose por- Price: Museum general admission $17 Dec. 8; 1-4 p.m. ments. Info: Visit https://www.icaboston. (Peace Plaza on the corner of Post & traits of Japanese American WWII This special holiday event will fea- Ocean World Restaurant org/exhibition/yayoi-kusama-love- Sutter Streets) veterans are featured in his book ture a photo opportunity with Santa, 1206 W. 86th St. calling. Don’t miss this opportunity to get “The Go for Broke Spirit: Portraits as well as the museum’s first-ever Price: Bento Lunch Prices Vary for your Christmas shopping done of Courage.” Gallery hours are local artist craft fair featuring unique Members/Nonmembers: Adults $21-$27 En/trance at this event that will showcase Wednesday-Sunday, Noon-4 p.m.; gifts from vendors such as Aki So- The Hoosier chapter is celebrating New York, NY Asian and Pacific Islander-themed closed Mondays, Tuesdays and gabe, Kimono Revivify, 2 Squirrels its holiday luncheon with delicious Through 2020 handmade crafts, unique art and holidays. and a Nut, On Point Pins and Kela bento box fare at varying prices. much more from over 90 vendors! Info: Visit http://www.jaccc.org/jaccc- Designs. RSVP recommended for The luncheon will also feature door New York Japan Society Gallery Info: Visit www.kimochi-inc.org or call calendar/2019/11/3/the-go-for-broke- a photo time slot. prizes, games, installation and 333 E. 47th St. (415) 931-2294. spirit-legacy-in-portraits. Info: Visit https://www.wingluke.org/ caroling. Reservations deadline This exhibit features a series of single-exhibit/?mep_event=3436. is Nov. 25. art projects aimed at bringing visual 12th Annual Mochi Madness Pounding ‘Under a Mushroom Cloud: Hiroshima, Info: Payment and reservation must art and interactive experiences Workshop, Tasting and Potluck Nagasaki and the Atomic Bomb’ be received by Nov. 25, payable to into the institution’s public spaces. Florin, CA Los Angeles, CA CCDC Hoosier JACL. For information, call Artist Yoshitomo Nara launches Dec. 14; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thru June 7, 2020 (317) 257-1516. the series with new works he cre- Florin Buddhist Church Japanese American National Museum Meet Santa at the Kearney Mansion ated in Shigaraki, one of Japan’s 7235 Pritchard Road 100 N. Central Ave. Museum oldest areas for pottery making. Price: Free for JACL members and ages To commemorate the upcoming Fresno, CA Don’t miss this unique exhibit. EDC Info: Visit https://www.japan 5 and under; Nonmembers $5 75th anniversary of the bombings Dec. 7; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. society.org/page/programs/gallery/ Sponsored by the Buddhist Church of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on Aug. Price: $6 Adults; $5 Seniors; $4 Chil- Yayoi Kusama: Love Is Calling entrance. n of Florin, Buddhist Women’s Assn. 6 and Aug. 9, 1945, this special dren (3-12); Free for Historical Society Boston, MA and Florin JACL-Sacramento Valley, exhibition will present photographs, this family-friendly event will feature explanatory texts, artifacts and plenty of mochi tasting, mochi contemporary art that will shed for sale and a delicious year-end potluck. Info: RSVP by Dec. 11 by email to ju- [email protected] or call (916) ADVERTISE HERE 421-5253. For mochi presale order form, Events in the calendar visit www.florinbuddhist.org or call section are listed based (916) 383-1831. General information, on space availability. visit www.florinjacl.com. Place a ‘Spotlight’ ad with photos of your event for maximum exposure. PSW FOR MORE INFO: [email protected] The Go for Broke Spirit: Legacy in (213) 620-1767 OBITUARIES Nov. 8-21, 2019 11

Angeles, CA, Aug. 17; she was Nagao, Masato Joe, 95, Gardena, predeceased by her husband, Izuo; CA, Aug. 5; he was predeceased she is survived by her children, Albert by his wife, Sadako; he is survived (Moni) and Carolyn (Edmundo) Soto; by his daughter, Miki Nagao; gc: 1. gc: 3; ggc: 1. Nakagawa, Fumiko, 94, Los Angeles, Kido, Suzy, 80, SeaTac, WA, Aug. 30. he is survived by his wife, Mieko; Moriyama, Sam Susumu, 96, CA, Aug. 30; she is survived by her Kondo, George, 71, Burien, WA, and his children, Gayle and Robert. Pasadena, CA, Aug. 12; he is survived husband, Isamu “Sam”; daughter, Kojima, Yoshio, 90, Newport Beach, June 6; he was predeceased by his by his wife, Kimiko; sons, Jeffrey Donna Nakagawa Higa; gc: 1. CA, June 18; a Korean War veteran, brother, Ray; he is survived by his Miyashiro, Mitsuo, 89, Honolulu, (Michele) and Harvey (Karilynn) he is survived by his wife, Seiko; siblings, Lorraine (Calvin) Hoshibata HI, Aug. 23; an Army veteran, he Moriyama; gc: 7. Nishi, Yoshiko, 97, Fresno, CA, daughters, Peggy Chiaki (Scott) and Charles (Marianne) Kondo; he is survived by his daughter, Jean Sept. 11. Correia and Lisa Hitomi (Will) Gordon; is also survived by nieces and a Miyashiro-Saipa’ia (I’a Saipa’ia); Murayama, Hiroko, 78, Gardena, brother, Kyoichi (Yoko) Kojima; sister- nephew. gc: 2. CA, Aug. 6; she is survived by her Nishimoto, Molly, 98, Gardena, in-law, Asako (Kanetoshi) Inoue; brother; she is also survived by many CA, Aug. 22; she is survived by her gc: 2. Kono, Yoshio, 95, Sacramento, CA; Miyashita, Lily Haruko, 97, Los nieces, nephews and other relatives. children, Connie Megumi (Edwin) Gohata, Heber Minoru (Linda), Cyril TRIBUTE TRIBUTE Nozomu Nishimoto and Phebe Jun (Michael) Arlen; she is survived by HARRY TOJI KUROTORI FRANK TOSHIO SUZUKI many nieces, nephews and other relatives; gc: 9; ggc: 3. Passed away peacefully at his home in July 3, 1921-Oct. 19, 2019 Pleasanton, Calif., on Oct. 18, 2019, at the Frank Toshio Suzuki passed peacefully on Oct. 19 in Alameda, Calif., Nitahara, Frances Tsuneko, 88, age of 97. He was born May 13, 1922, in with his wife, Marion, at his side. Born in San Francisco to Chiyosaku Wahiawa, HI, July 28. San Francisco and raised in Martinez, Calif., and Aki Okamoto Suzuki, the family settled in the Cressey expansion of where he attended Alhambra High School. the Yamato Colony in Merced County. His parents were from Toyohashi Nomura, Hisako, 90, Los Angeles, In 1942, he was interned at the Gila River in the Aichi prefecture of Japan. Frank was joined by the arrival of CA, Aug. 31; she is survived by Relocaton Center before being drafted into sisters, June, Mary, Ruth and Pat. her husband, George; son, Craig; the US Army, where he served in the Military At the Suzuki Farm, they raised barley, beans, black-eyed peas, siblings, Haj (Kayoko) Shimada and Intelligence Service. After his service in the corn, mustard seed and sunflower seeds. Later, they farmed chinchilla Sachiko “Susie” Nakada; gc: 2; ggc: 3. Army, Harry continued to serve in Japan as rabbits, chickens, pigs, grapes, peaches, sweet potatoes and, most a civilian, helping in the rebuilding of Japan. recently, almonds. Frank farmed until he retired at age 89. Sadamitsu, Mitsuye Mitzi, 94, Los After one year, Harry returned to the U.S. During high school, Frank played baseball with Nisei friends on the Angeles, CA, Sept. 17; she is survived and attended Armstrong Business College, where he met his wife, Rose Livingston Dodgers, traveling to play Japanese American teams in by her children, Lynn Emi (Eddie) Moritomo, who passed away in 2012. He pursued a career in the insurance Lodi, Stockton, French Camp, Delta and other Central Valley towns. Imoto and Mark (Kathy) Sadamitsu; industry and eventually established Kurotori & Murata Insurance Service He continued to play baseball at the Merced Assembly Center and she is also survived by many nieces, in San Francisco. Harry and Rose married in 1953, moved to Hayward, Granada War Relocation Center in Colorado. Frank studied veterinary nephews and other relatives; gc: 2 Calif., where they raised their three children and resided for 50-plus years. science at California Polytechnic School and worked for the county’s Throughout his life, he was active in the Japanese American community only veterinarian. When war with Japan was declared, he returned to Sugita, Midori, 90, Torrance, CA, Oct. as a member of the Buddhist Churches of America, Buddhist Church of Cressey, Calif. 5; she is survived by her daughter, Oakland, Eden Township JACL, Eden Nikkei Seniors (Bowling) League The Suzukis were incarcerated in the detention facility at the Merced Katsuyo (Bert) Roberts; she is also and the SF Nisei Fishing Club. His hobbies included gardening, fishing and Fairgrounds for several months in 1942, then transported to the survived by many nieces, nephews bowling (active ’til age 94!). Granada concentration camp also known as Amache. Frank attended and other relatives; gc: 3; ggc: 2. He is survived by his children, Craig (Robin) Kurotori, Dona Anderson a semester at University of Wyoming. He was able to leave Amache and Dee Dee (Tom) Gray; grandchildren, Kimberly (Nick) Anagnost, Tyler to farm in Lamar, Colo. and Greeley, Colo. He returned to Cressey in Takara, Steve Yukio, 80, Los Anderson, Erin Gray, Zachary Anderson, Jaime Gray, Cameron Kurotori, 1946, where he would farm for the next 63 years. Angeles, CA, Sept. 18; he is survived Jeremy Anderson and Shannon Gray. He met Marion Oishi of Oakland, Calif., at a church conference in by his wife, Keiko; children, Kristine A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 p.m. at the Buddhist Reno. They married in 1953 in Oakland, making their first home in (Scott) Barrella, Tim (Traci) Takara Church of Oakland, 825 Jackson St. Livingston, then moving to the Cressey home, where they raised five and David (Sung Hee) Takara; sister, In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Buddhist Church of daughters. Frank and Marion were active with the Livingston United Ritsuko (Herbert) Miyamoto; gc: 7. Oakland or the Eden Township Japanese Community Center building fund. Methodist Church and Livingston-Merced JACL, and they bowled in the Nisei Bowling League until well into their 80s. Frank was also a Takeda, Chiyeko, 88, San Jose, TRIBUTE member of Blue Diamond Growers, Livingston Farmers Association CA, Sept. 26; during WWII her and Livingston Lions, and later, Buena Vista United Methodist Church family and she were incarcerated JANE KOSAKURA in Alameda. at the Gila River WRA Center No. Frank enjoyed Friday poker nights with friends, family camping trips 1; she was predeceased by her Jane M. Kosakura passed away and vacations, especially trips to Lake Tahoe and Hawaii, celebrating husband, Herbert, and siblings, peacefully at home on Oct. 26 friends’ special occasions, making investments and attending San Aki (Ed) Yoshioka, James Kogura, surrounded by her loving family. Francisco Giants and Golden State Warriors games. In 2009, at the Kazu (Mits) Kumamoto and Tachi Jane was born on Nov. 10 in Tule age of 88, he received an honorary diploma from Cal Poly. (Grace) Kogura; she is survived by Lake, Calif., and spent most of her Besides his wife of 66 years, Frank is survived by sister, Pat; daughters, her children, Tim (Vivian) Takeda, childhood on the family farm in Lori (Dean Ito Taylor), Wendy Horikoshi (Peter), Heidi (George Oyama), Leslie (Gary) Morrison, Alan (Nancy) West Sacramento. Jane attended Tami (Richard Eijima) and Teri; and grandchildren, Steven and Kevin Takeda and Steven (Dian) Takeda; Clarksburg High School before Horikoshi, Masao Ito Taylor, Derek Oyama and Riki and Tomi Eijima. siblings, Frances (Henry) Watanabe, graduating from UC Berkeley, where He was predeceased by his parents and sisters, Ruth, Mary Sabusawa Al (Jan) Kogura and Bill Kogura; gc: 6. she met her beloved husband of 54 and June Mochizuki. Donations may be made to Livingston United years. Jane received her teaching Methodist Church, Buena Vista United Methodist Church or Asian Pacific Tanioka, Cedric Tsugio, 74, credential from San Francisco State Islander Legal Outreach. A memorial service to celebrate Frank’s life Honolulu, HI, Aug. 4; he is survived University and taught elementary was held at Livingston United Methodist Church on Nov. 9, at 1 p.m., by his children, Carie Anne, Dorie, school in Oakland before spending 11695 Olive Ave., Livingston, Calif. Guy, Jordan and Taylor; siblings, the rest of her career with her husband Michael and Leburta; gc: 2. n at their travel agency, Kosakura Tours & Travel. They planned hundreds of trips, experienced numerous adventures while traveling the world and made lifelong friends. After PLACE A TRIBUTE retirement, Jane stayed close to home and enjoyed spending time with ‘In Memoriam’ is a free family, especially events related to her granddaughters. listing that appears on a Jane is survived by her husband, Morris; sons, Ryan (Cheryl) and Keith limited, space-available basis. (Grace); granddaughters, Kelli, Emi and Miya; sister, Phyllis Iwasaki; Tributes honor your loved ones sisters-in-law, Gwen Iwasaki, Ruth (Rich) Kaneko, Ann (Min) Uyehara and with text and photos and appear many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends who will all miss in a timely manner at the rate of her infectious smile. She was predeceased by her brother, Richard, and $20/column inch. parents, Nathan and Yoshie Iwasaki. CONTACT: A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Nov. 30 at the Japanese [email protected] American Religious & Cultural Center at 3165 Treat Blvd.in Concord, Calif. or call (213) 620-1767 ext. 104 12 Nov. 8-21, 2019 IN-DEPTH PHOTO: JADECOASTPHOTO.COM SHANE SATO RETURNS WITH VOL. II OF ‘GO FOR BROKE SPIRIT’ A sister tome contains more vet portraits for the ages. Robert PHOTOS: SHANE SATO Horsting By P.C. Staff (left) and

Shane ince publishing “The Go for Broke Sato are Spirit: Portraits of Courage” two years pictured ago (Pacific Citizen, Nov. 3, 2017), selling Sphotographer Shane Sato has been busy — and their book not just promoting that photographic collection at the of portraits of Japanese American World War recent II veterans and others who embodied the “go San Diego for broke” ethos they exemplified. JACL gala. In addition to his marriage to Claire Hur, Sato has been busy promoting that first book but also finishing the second, a sister book titled, “The Go for Broke Spirit: Portraits of Legacy,” copies of which just arrived from the For Sato’s parent’s generation, he the book to be red-flagged this time around printer and includes unseen photos as well as believes the intention behind not tal- by Chinese authorities, who thought it might more recent portraits. king about that past may have been be some sort of pro-Trump book. Sato, who describes himself as a half-kotonk, Volume II of “The Go for Broke Spirit: Por- to give their offspring “a clean slate” “My broker had to explain to them that they half-buddhahead Sansei, said the response traits of Courage” continues the mission of and not grow up with a chip on their (the veterans in the book) fought for America, to Volume One was “very positive.” In that its predecessor: to get the next generation shoulders. but they also fought against the government collection, each portrait was accompanied on involved and open up the conversation. Still, it left a void that Sato was for the injustice that happened to them,” Sato the facing page with text that encapsulated the compelled to fill — and producing said. “They could not understand that. They this second volume of portraits was just did not get it. But we were able to get the subject’s story. “Everyone likes the photos, my family and I never did,” he said. like a soothing balm for him. book through . . . I found that kind of funny.” and they all think the stories are very good,” “The only thing my family ever talked about “My parents would tell me, ‘It’s not im- Through Nov. 24, Sato’s portraits will be Sato said. was go to school, get a job, be successful, portant’ all the time. Don’t worry about our on display at the JACCC’s George J. Doizaki “The Go for Broke Spirit: Portraits of Legacy” become a doctor or lawyer, which obviously past, and so I believed them,” Sato said. “But Gallery in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo. Included shares the same mission as its predecessor, said never happened,” Sato said. in reality, their past was very important, and will be some newer portraits not in either book, Sato, and that it’s not just about the veterans or Sato never really got much from his family in I didn’t realize until much later in life that with veterans from the Korean and Vietnam to discuss history. “It’s to get the next generation the way of their experiences as Americans of they were wrong. So now, I try and tell those Wars, as well as America’s long-running involved and open up the conversation, which Japanese ancestry, which for his Hawaii-born stories because many, many Sanseis don’t know conflicts in the Middle East and Afghanistan. father included owning and operating Sam Sato about their family history, nor do they know While it has been a personal and financial Bowling Supply and for his mother, the former about the war necessarily. They know about sacrifice for Sato to make the books, one dif- Mary Yasuda, working for the city. They met internment, but they don’t know necessarily ference in the producing the second book that at the long-defunct but fondly remembered what their families had to go through because, Sato noticed was less reluctance by the veterans Holiday Bowl in L.A.’s Crenshaw District. again, their families didn’t talk about it.” compared with 15 years or more years ago. “Everyone who bowled in Los Angeles at that Like with the first book, which Robert “Getting them to do the photo shoot and open time knew my dad,” Sato said, adding, “The Horsting helped promote and produce, he up was much, much easier,” he said. only thing my dad told me about his childhood again collaborated with Sato for Vol. II to write To that point, Sato had a humorous story about was, ‘Don’t do what I did. Do something else.’” the aforementioned profiles that accompany a vet in Hawaii who was looking through the Later in life, Sato realized his mother was each portrait. first book. He looked and looked for a portrait Mas equally reticent about her past, which included “Just like before, we took different ones if of himself — but didn’t see one. Tsuida living at the Poston 3 WRA Center. Not even we had a personal relationship or some kind “How come I’m not in this book?” he asked. direct questions elicited much of a response. of angle to a particular story, depending on Someone had to tell him that Sato asked him “My mom never talked about camp,” he said. who the veteran was,” he said. three times if he would pose for a portrait, “They never talked about injustice. I had no Over the past two years since the first to no avail. Chagrined, the vet said, “I didn’t idea what redress was.” volume was released, Sato traveled to Chicago, know it was gonna be good!” Asked to speculate why, Sato said he’ll never Colorado, New York, Utah and Washington, know why his folks never opened up about D.C., to collect more portraits for inclusion in Visit www.TheGoForBrokeSpirit.com the past. But while producing his books, he his latest offering. for news about “The Go for Broke Spirit: noticed the same was true with other Japanese One unexpected development Sato had to Portraits of Legacy.” See Shane Sato’s pho- American families. deal with was the tariffs imposed by President tographs at an exhibition titled “The Go “Talking with a lot of these veterans and Donald Trump upon China, where the book for Broke Spirit: Legacy in Portraits,” with veterans’ families, it’s the same story,” he said. was printed. Because of that, Sato said the video storytelling thru Nov. 24 at the George “It could have been a shameful time for them. price has not yet been settled. “It’ll be at least J. Doizaki Gallery, 244 S. San Pedro St., They didn’t want to go back to that time when $55,” he said. Los Angeles, CA 90012. Visit www.JACCC. Wat Misaka they were forced to go to camp.” The trade tensions may also have even caused org for details.

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