Japanese American Veterans Association JAVA ADVOCATE

December 2007 Volume XV—Issue 4 Inside this issue: 100th-442nd Receive Audie Murphy Award President’s Message 2 On November 10, 2007, the American JAVA Leadership Veterans Center (AVC) presented its Audie Murphy Award 3 prestigious Audie Murphy Award to nd Joint Education Program the 442 Regimental Combat Team (RCT). On behalf of the members of News from Other Veterans 4 this combat unit, four 442nd veterans Service Organizations accepted the award from James C. Rob- erts, founder and president of the AVC, Annual Nisei Vets Reunion 5 at the AVC’s 10th Annual Conference and Awards Banquet attended by 500 JAVA Veterans Day Program 6 people at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuwayama Honored by Washington, DC. The 442nd RCT veter- Bar Association ans were George Joe Sakato, Co E Medal of Honor (MOH) recipient from Above: 442nd veterans receive Audie Murphy Award. L- Documentary on Kuroki 7 R: Joe Ichiuji, Kelly Kuwayama, James C. Roberts, Joe Denver, Colorado; Yeiichi Kelly Ku- JA Nisei Veterans Recog- Sakato, Terry Shima. Photo courtesy of AVC. nized in DC Events wayama; Co E, Joe Ichiuji, 522nd Field Artillery of the 442nd RCT; and Terry This reference to the ultimate gamble rep- Meet the Flag Officers 8 Shima, 442nd Public Relations Office. resented exactly what these Japanese Americans were doing. They were risking Satow Honored by VFW 9 The Audie Murphy Award is presented “for it all on one great effort to win big. Their A Visit to Vosges distinguished service in the United States gamble, however, was to offer their lives to prove their loyalty. The predecessor to the Oct Luncheon Highlights Military during World War II.” Murphy 10 442nd was the 100th Infantry Battalion, GFBNEC Awards Dinner was the most decorated soldier in WW II. He fought in nine campaigns and won every which fought valiantly through Italy, earn- The American Dream— 11 medal the Army had to offer including the ing tremendous respect. … For their valor, Gene Takahashi (Part 2) Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service courage and loyalty to country, all of the Letter to JAVA Cross, two Silver Stars and three Purple men who served in the 100th-442nd Regi- Hearts. mental Combat Team are being recognized Launch of PPALM 12 as the recipients of the American Veterans Center’s 2007 Audie Murphy Award.” The citation read, in part, “The men of the Nisei Stamp Campaign 13 442nd chose their slogan: ‘Go For Broke.’ A Sister’s Hero [continued at “Audie Murphy” on page 3] Scholarship News 14 January Luncheon JAVA Enters Joint Education Program With Public Schools Mukoyama Appointed to 15 A project intended to help high school stu- the program focuses on the 100th Battalion- Chair VA Committee dents understand the Japanese American 442nd Regimental Combat Team and other Smithsonian APA Program wartime experience will be launched in segregated military units, including the Maryland’s Montgomery County Public Navajo Codetalkers, Tuskegee Airmen, and Taps: Bill Hosokawa 16 Wreaths at Arlington Schools (MCPS), it was announced recently Latinos who served during WWII. The one- in a joint statement by MCPS, the Go For day teacher training and orientation work- From the Editor 17 Broke National Education Center shop, scheduled on Feb. 2, 2008, in Rock- Welcome New Members (GFBNEC), National Japanese American ville, Maryland, will be the first of its kind Membership Application Memorial Foundation (NJAMF), and JAVA. for teachers on the East Coast.

JAVA Contact Information 18 Upcoming Events In addition to examining the World War II [continued at “Education” on page 3 ] JAVA Scrapbook internment of persons of Japanese ancestry, PAGE 2 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

ties in Maryland, Virginia, and the Dis- Wakatake, who was appointed to President’s Message trict of Columbia. We are pleased to be a member of the prestigious report that on May 17, 2008, we will American Bar Association Standing I thank JAVA mem- award three scholarships from our three Committee on Armed Forces Law bers for their strong memorial scholarship funds. JAVA has and was recently appointed Chair support in 2007, and played an active role in generating sup- of the National Asian Pacific I wish you all a pros- port for the Commemorative Nisei WW American Bar Association Military perous and success- II Postage Stamp Campaign. With the and Veterans Affairs Committee; ful 2008. Allow me oral history interviews of WW II veter- MG Antonio Taguba, USA (Ret), to deviate from the ans virtually completed, we have started who received an award for out- normal quarterly our interview of post-WW II veterans. standing achievement from the message and give you a round up of Our program to digitize the Nisei WW II U.S. Citizenship and Immigration our 2007 year. We have continued to record at the National Archives and Service; and Sus Satow, 442nd vet- make great strides in 2007 in terms of Records Administration, a joint project eran and JAVA member from Sac- substantive programs and the projec- with 442nd/MIS Hawaii, is moving along ramento, California, who was fea- tion of JAVA as the leading edge of unabated. tured in Ken Burns’ THE WAR, a the Asian American veterans. 15-hour documentary on WW II. In nd I am pleased with the compliments we addition, four 442 veterans of We had a high profile public launch of have received to our quarterly newslet- JAVA received, on behalf of the the book Nisei Linguists: Japanese nd ter, JAVA ADVOCATE, now 18 months entire 442 Regimental Combat Americans in the Military Intelligence old. It contains articles designed to edu- Team, the Audie Murphy award Service During WW II on March 30, cate the public on Japanese American from the American Veterans Cen- 2007, at Capitol Hill that was well- issues and to convey relevant news to ter; and MG James Mukoyama, attended by officials of the legislative Asian American veterans and their USAR (Ret), was appointed by the and executive branches, diplomats families. Editor MAJ Kay Wakatake, Secretary of Veterans Affairs to be and veterans service organizations. who is assigned to Germany, has done a Chairman of the Committee on On Memorial Day weekend (A) JACL superior job. I wish to congratulate Minority Veterans. and JAVA jointly held a program at COL Renita Menyhert, USA, for her Arlington Cemetery that included the series of 9 articles in 2006 on Japanese placement of flowers at 59 gravesites American veterans which won in 2007 and the laying of the wreath at the the US Army Keith L. Ware Award and Tomb of the Unknown, and (B) JAVA the DOD-wide Thomas Jefferson marched in the Memorial Day Parade Award. I wish to also thank the Depart- down Constitution Avenue sponsored Officers ment of Veterans Affairs for producing a by the American Veterans Center. On Robert Nakamoto, President 29-minute DVD, The Face Behind of the Veterans Day weekend JAVA (A) par- CDR Calvin Shintani, USNR (Ret) File: Japanese Americans, a story of the ticipated in the Veterans Administra- Vice President Japanese American experience which tion sponsored program at the Arling- MAJ Kim Luoma, USAFR, Secretary has been shown extensively in the ex- ton National Cemetery amphitheater LTC Earl Takeguchi, USA (Ret) Treasurer ecutive departments and is now being from which the Vice President ad- shown in high schools. dressed the nation, and (B) held its 7th Executive Council Annual Veterans Day Program jointly Above Officers plus: Some of our members who received rec- with the National Japanese American Grant Ichikawa ognition during the past year include six Memorial Foundation (NJAMF) at COL Sunao Phil Ishio, USA (Ret) the National Japanese American Me- JAVA veterans who were honored at a BG Bert Mizusawa, USAR morial to Patriotism. JAVA and 15 White House ceremony during the Asia Calvin Ninomiya other Japanese American veterans Pacific American Heritage program organizations were recognized by the when President George Bush recounted Terry Shima, Executive Director Go For Broke National Education the military contributions made by MAJ Kay Wakatake, USA Center which presented the Go For Japanese Americans; JAVA Honorary Lt Col Michael Yaguchi, USAF (Ret), Broke Spirit Award at its Evening of Chair Norman Mineta, former Secretary Deputy Executive Director Aloha Dinner on November 10 at Ana- of Transportation, who received the Gerald Yamada, General Counsel heim. 1,400 people attended. Japanese Government’s Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun; Califor- Honorary Chairs nia Superior Court Judge Vincent Oka- JAVA has concluded an agreement Senator Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Senate moto, who was inducted into the Ranger with the Montgomery County Public Senator Daniel K. Inouye, U.S. Senate Hall of Fame in Fort Benning, Georgia; Schools (MCPS), NJAMF, and Go For COL Sunao Phil Ishio, USA (Ret) Shinkichi Tajiri, 442nd veteran, who Broke National Education Center to The Honorable Norman Y. Mineta sculptured four “sentinels” for a bridge enhance the teaching of the Japanese in The Netherlands and was appointed American experience during WW II in to the highest order of “knighthood” by JAVA ADVOCATE 29 MCPS high schools. This is a pilot the Queen of the Netherlands; MAJ Kay Akio Konoshima, Editor Emeritus project for adaptation in other coun- MAJ Kay Wakatake, USA, Editor PAGE 3 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

Education (from page 1)

Teachers from other local area schools will also be invited to the workshop, which is viewed as a pilot activity for adoption in other counties, as desired.

Created in 1998 by the GFBNEC in collabo- ration with curriculum specialists Esther Taira and Mark Elinson, the program re- ceived its initial funding from the Califor- Meeting at Montgomery County Public School. Clockwise: Dr. Frieda Lacey, Maria nia Arts Council in support of the State of Trementozzi, Dr. Donna Shimoda Hollingshead, Eric Lang, Dale Shimoda Horos, California social studies curriculum stan- Terry Shima, Dr. Ray Murakami, and Gerald Yamada, Esq. Photo by William Mills. dard and later obtained a grant from U.S. Department of Education Fund for Improved Education. Dr. Weast, who has a son serving in Iraq, welcomed the More than 1,500 teachers have completed the program to partnership with MCPS. Christine Sato Yamazaki, Presi- date, reaching an estimated 60,000 students each year. dent and Chief Executive Officer, GFBNEC, said “We are extremely proud of the success achieved by the teacher training workshops in California and feel privileged to be Plans for the educational partnership were solidified No- able to join with Dr. Weast and many distinguished organi- vember 5 in a meeting that included Gerald Yamada, Presi- zations in our ongoing efforts especially to bring the values dent and Executive Director of NJAMF, Dr. Ray Murakami, embodied by our veterans into classrooms across the na- immediate past Chairman of the Board of NJAMF and tion.” Dr. Frieda Lacey, MCPS Deputy Superintendent, member of JAVA Education Committee, Terry Shima, Act- said, “The Japanese American experience in WWII is a ing Chair of JAVA Education Committee, and MCPS offi- story of how adversity can be overcome in a constructive cials, including Dr. Jerry Weast, Superintendent (for por- manner and is an important lesson to convey to students.” tion of the meeting); Dr. Frieda Lacey, Deputy Superinten- In conjunction with the program, Dr. Lacey plans to involve dent; Dr. Eric Lang, Associate Superintendent; Dr. Donna her newly acquired MCPS partners as advisors in writing Shimoda Hollingshead, Executive Director, Office of the the Japanese American experience in MCPS textbooks. Deputy Superintendent; Maria Trementozzi, acting supervi- sor of social studies; and Mrs. Dale Shimoda Horos, Coordi- nator, Office of Human Resources. [full press release available at www.javadc.org]

Audie Murphy (from page 1)

In his acceptance speech, Sakato said Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, and “I am proud and honored to accept Grant Ichikawa, veteran of the Army’s the Audie Murphy Award on behalf of Military Intelligence Service, partici- the 100th Battalion-442nd Regimental pated in a one-hour panel discussion Combat Team, the Nisei soldiers who at the AVC conference entitled served in the Military Intelligence “Unparalleled Patriotism: The Japa- units in the Asia Pacific Theater, the nese Experience in WW II.” Approxi- men who served in the U.S. Air mately 250 packed the meeting hall. Corps, and the women who served in Following this, the veterans moved to Above: Joe Sakato describes his battle in the the Women’s Army Corps and the an adjoining room where they held a Vosges as Grant Hirabayashi looks on. Nurses Corps. . . . We enlisted in the Question and Answer session with Below: JAVA panel members talk with stu- dents from Osbourn Park High School follow- armed forces to show our loyalty to some 70 high school students from the ing Q&A session. Photo courtesy of Ameri- our country. We volunteered from Osbourn Park High School in Manas- can Veterans Center. internment camps and from the pine- sas, Virginia. apple and sugar cane fields from Ha- waii. We were proud of our motto ‘Go The mission of AVC is to preserve and For Broke.’ In rescuing the Texas promote the legacy of America’s ser- Battalion that was trapped by the vice men and women. Comprised of Germans, we lived this motto to the two divisions, the WW II Veterans fullest.” Committee and National Vietnam Veterans Committee, the AVC also Earlier in the week on November 8, sponsors the National Memorial Day Sakato, Kuwayama, Ichiuji, Grant Parade in WDC. Hirabayashi, Merrill’s Marauder and PAGE 4 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

THE WAR. At that News From Other JA Veterans Organizations luncheon, Lawson Sakai and Donald The 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans Club, Hawaii’s Wakida presented JAVA President Bob Nakamoto’s letter Puka Puka Parade said that a Learning Resource Center of congratulations and a JAVA memento to Satow (story on (LRC) is being constructed at the Clubhouse. According to page 9). The Commander of Post 8985 is Loren M. Ishii. architectural drawings, the LRC will feature oral histories of veterans, memorabilia, and names of 100th veterans, with state of the art electronic displays. The facility will accommodate small groups of up to 20 people to listen to presentations. The article, written by Al Matsumoto, Amanda Stevens and Mimi Nakano, said, “This LRC will perpetuate the legacy of the 100th Inf Bn and will continue through civic engagement to perpetuate the motto ‘For con- tinuing service.’ . . . We hope. . .members of the Descen- dant Chapter, the Sons and Daughters and the community will learn why Freedom is Priceless.” The President is Robert Arakaki. L-R: Hiroko and COL Sakamoto, MAJ and Hiroko Uratsu at the 442nd Veterans Club, Hawaii’s Go For Broke Bulletin for DLI following induction into the DLI Hall of Fame. September has a report under Fox Fables that Pietro Maghelli, a rancher in the Massa district, Italy, has built a Sierra VFW Nisei Post 8499, Fresno, California, News museum of WW II relics. It includes two WW II jeeps, Briefs encouraged its members to support the Commemora- which has been refurbished and will be used for shows and tive Postage Stamp Campaign to honor Nisei who served in the annual Liberation Day Parade. Stan Izumigawa re- the Armed Forces during WW II. The Campaign Coordina- ported that the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center of Maui, tor is Wayne Osako. The News Briefs also contained an which includes preschool and adult day care facilities, was article written by Victor Muraoka, a member of the San dedicated last summer. Also, last summer the 100th-442nd Fernando Valley Nisei Memorial VFW Post 4140. Muraoka RCT was recognized when the U.S. Army dedicated a logis- said that during the period 1960 to 1990 there were 14 Ni- tics vessel named “Staff Sergeant Robert T. Kuroda, LSV- sei VFW Posts with a combined membership of close to 7.” Kuroda is a Medal of Honor recipient. Earlier this year 1,000 members at their peak but now draws about 300, 2 a U.S. Air Force Flying Cargo C-17 plane was named “The American Legion Posts and numerous other Japanese Spirit of Go For Broke.” The President is Bill Thompson. American veterans organizations. Their mission is to pro- mote comradeship, public education, and support charitable M.I.S. Veterans, Hawaii’s Newsletter for December re- endeavors. The Commander of Post 8499 is John Skinner. ported that the Club asked Senator Daniel K. Akaka to seek the U.S. Army’s approval to commission a historian to Nisei Veterans Committee, Seattle, Washington, News- write a book on the Nisei role in the Occupation of Japan. letter, reported on the planned dedication on March 15, Akaka, who was instrumental in getting Nisei Linguists: 2008, of its refurbished Memorial Hall. Senator Daniel Japanese Americans in the Military Intelligence Service Inouye and possibly GEN Eric Shinseki plan to attend. The During WW II published in March 2007, sent a letter to Newsletter also reported on the opening of MIS exhibit at Secretary of the Army Pete Geren on November 1, 2007. the White River Valley Museum at Auburn, Washington on MIS former president Judge Frank Takao and MIS sons October 6, 2007, and the panel discussion on October 19, and daughters organized the Second Annual Americans of which featured Grant Jiro Hirabayashi, Takashi Matsui Japanese Ancestry Joint Memorial Service at the National and Roy Hiroshi Matsumoto, who volunteered to serve in Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl on Septem- the MIS. The President is Lt Col Yuzo Tokita, USAF (Ret), berMemorial 30, 2007. The keynote Day speaker was GEN Eric Shinseki, (from page 3) a former F-4 fighter pilot. USA (Ret). The President is Dr. Glenn Masunaga. National Japanese American Veterans Council, Nisei VFW Post 8985, Sacramento, California, Newsletter Washington, DC, Times, reported on its major project, the for December reported that COL Tom Sakamoto, USA publication of a book on Nisei who served in the Occupation (Ret), of Post 8985 and MAJ Masaji Gene Uratsu, USA of Japan. The project has secured a senior adviser, Dr. (Ret) were inducted into the Defense Language Institute Eugene Ueki, retired Case Western University professor, Hall of Fame on November 2, 2007. The two Nisei were and is now seeking major funding sponsors, including the students in the first class of MIS Language School at the Japan Commerce Association of Washington, DC. This pro- Presidio of San Francisco. Both served as combat transla- jected book is intended to be a sequel to Dr James C. tors/ interrogators in the Pacific and subsequently in the McNaughton’s Nisei Linguists: Japanese Americans in the Occupation of Japan. The Post held a lunch to honor Sus Military Intelligence Service During WW II, which ends ap- Satow, 442nd veteran, for his contribution to promote the proximately when WW II ended. The President is COL Japanese American cause, including his appearance on Walter Ozawa, USA (Ret). Ken Burns and Lynn Novick’s 15-hour TV documentary, DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 5 Annual Nisei Veterans Reunion Contributed by Carol Akiyama, Lawson Sakai, and Brian Shiroyama Last January 2007, a humble note nese-American rescuers. was tucked into the Japanese- American National Monument in For the attendees, Mike Allen pro- Washington, D.C., which read: vided music CDs entitled “They “Thank you 442 RCT for rescuing our Dared to Dream — A Tribute To Father, October 30, 1944, 1600 hours. The 442nd Regimental Combat Our Father always said YOU were the Team,” containing brilliant songs, only ones who could do it! Janet Hard- which he co-composed, produced, wick Brown & Susan Hardwick.” Ac- 442nd, E Company veterans in front of 442nd “Go and recorded professionally, honor- For Broke” flag. L-R: Lawson Sakai, Mas Tsuda, companying the note was an old ing World War II American Veter- Joe Sakato, Hiro Asai. Photos courtesy of Carol WWII photo of their Dad, Sgt. William ans. Akiyama. “Bill” Hardwick, identified as a mem- ber of “The Lost Battalion,” 36th Divi- Making this Reunion more heart- hearing about the WWII-heroism of the sion, 141st Infantry, Company B. nd th warming were honored guests from the 442 RCT/100 IB, from a prominent Bruyeres region of France, Caucasian community-leader, inspired More than six dec- where “The Lost Battalion” him to pursue his dreams for a military ades later, the rescue took place — career. Hardwick Sisters’ Etienne Pourcher, Mayor of gracious note of Fremifontaine and Counsel 442nd RCT, E Company and I Company appreciation General of Vosges Region, were well-represented at the Reunion, reached across accompanied by his wife along with 442nd RCT/100th IB Vets America, with Zvonka, and Rene & from C, F, G, H, K, L and M Compa- lightning-speed Simone Gheeraert, retired nies, the 522nd Field Artillery Battal- (thanks to emails), Above L-R: Susan Hardwick, hotel-proprietors from ion, and several WWII MIS veterans. Shuji Takemoto, Janet Hardwick displaying their Brovelieures/Bruyeres. sincere outreach of Brown. Below L-R: Janet, Frank Wednesday night’s “Farewell Banquet” love and compas- Mizufuka, Susan. (September 12), guided by Lawson Sa- sion. Such was the Keynote-Speaker was Roy kai, combined appropriate military inspiration for the Yasui, born and raised in ceremony with fun and drama, with Monday night Canada, accompanied by the posting of colors and our National “Welcome Ban- his wife Grace. During the Anthem, followed by the ever-popular quet” (September early 1950’s, he joined the raffle of generous gifts donated by 10) at this year’s Canadian Air Force as its FFNV, veterans, veterans’ families, annual Nisei Vet- first Japanese-Canadian and guests. erans Reunion Fighter-Pilot, an achieve- held at the Las Vegas California Hotel ment that was not easy, in the face of & Casino. heavy peer-discrimination. He rose Lawson gave a very special introduc- through the ranks, selected for a cov- tion of revered Medal of Honor Recipi- eted-post at North American Radar ent, Joe Sakato, who earned his Medal As in years past, the Reunion was Air Defense (NORAD). As a youth, of Honor during the rescue of “The Lost organized/hosted by “Friends and Battalion.” Family of Nisei Veterans” (FFNV, a non-profit organization), led by Lawson Sakai (442nd RCT, E Com- Following dinner, Lawson introduced pany), assisted by his staff, Jean filmmaker, Lane Nishikawa, a San- Hirasaki and Brian Shiroyama. sei, whose tenacity and talent as pro- ducer/director/writer/actor created his brilliant movie, “Only the Brave,” Susan Hardwick and Janet Hard- about the rescue of “The Lost Battal- wick Brown, with her husband ion.” Then, Lane’s movie was exhib- Phil, were FFNV’s honored guests ited before a rapt audience. at the Reunion. FFNV welcomed other honored guests, Gene and Joy Airheart, their daughter Page Next year’s Annual Nisei Veterans Airheart and her husband Mike Reunion is set for September 28, Allen. Gene Airheart, who was a 2008 (4 days), at the Las Vegas Cali- 141st Soldier, rescued as part of Standing L-R: Lawson Sakai, Mike Allen, Mineko fornia Hotel & Casino. (Contact “The Lost Battalion,” traveled Sakai, Page Airheart. Sitting L-R: Joe Sakato, Gene Lawson Sakai, FFNV President, at across America to meet his Japa- Airheart, Joy Airheart. [email protected].) PAGE 6 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

indignities of the JAVA Holds 7th Annual Veterans Day Program times, and espe- cially those who JAVA and the National Japanese did not return.” American Memorial Foundation (NJAMF) jointly held their 7th Annual Sakato was awarded the MOH for his Veterans Day Program at the National heroism on October 29, 1944, during the Japanese American Memorial to Patri- fierce battle in the Vosges mountains of otism, located near the U.S. Capitol eastern France to rescue the 1st Bn, 141st Building in Washington, D.C., on No- Regiment, 36th (Texas) Division, which vember 11, 2007. Approximately 100 was trapped by German forces. His squad members and friends participated in leader, his closest friend, was fatally shot, this event. and his unit was pinned down by enemy fire. Sakato assumed command and, de- Tribute was paid to all veterans of the spite heavy enemy fire directed at him, armed forces including the 360,000 made a one-man charge up the hill. This inspired his unit to follow him. He used Asian Pacific American (APA) veterans Above: Medal of Honor Recipient Joe Sa- and 29,000 APAs on active duty. kato speaks at the JAVA Veterans Day an enemy rifle and P-38 pistol to stop an Medal of Honor recipient George “Joe” program. organized enemy attack. He killed 12 Sakato of Denver, Colorado, and Lt Col Germans and wounded two, personally Michael Yaguchi, USAF (Ret), Chair of the Veterans Day captured four and assisted his platoon in taking 34 prison- Committee, laid, at the sound of taps, a floral wreath at the ers. By his gallant courage and fighting spirit, he turned Heroes Wall where the names of over 800 Nisei who paid impending defeat into victory. the ultimate price in WW II are inscribed. The Pan Pacific American Leaders and Mentors (PPALM) Sakato, the principal speaker, said, “In our hearts we never used this occasion to publicly announce its formation as a doubted our loyalty and love of our country even tough the nonprofit organization to mentor U.S. Army uniformed government put our families in internment camps. . . . and civilian personnel about their career goals and aspira- When people ask what the Medal of Honor (MOH) means tions. to me, I have to say it is an honor. But it is an honor I wear for the men who made the ultimate sacrifice with LTC Martin L. Herbert, USA (Ret), provided the invoca- their lives. . . . On Veterans Day it is right to remember all tion and benediction. Mr. Tino Dinh, USAF veteran, was those who fought, those who were at home suffering the the Master of Ceremony.

of the “Lost Bat- Kuwayama Honored by Bar Association by Kelly Kuwayama talion.” It was my privilege to speak before Relocation and Internment of Civilians the Asian American Bar Association that proclaimed the internment of The historic fact of the exclusion of of the Delaware Valley on October 26, Japanese Americans was the unjust Japanese and Japanese Americans 2007, in Philadelphia at their Annual result of racism, wartime hysteria and from the West Coast and their intern- Banquet in support of the Honorable failure of political leadership. He was ment in relocation camps was im- William M. Marutani fellowship. I legal counsel to the Japanese American pressed upon the audience. I retold the was invited by Bill Uchimoto, the vice Citizens League and was involved in long history of events which started president of the Association and a the desegregation of schools, voter reg- with the Naturalization Act of 1790 patent attorney in Philadelphia. He istration in Mississippi, and the abro- which prohibited citizenship for Asians is also the son of Daniel Uchimoto, a gation of anti-miscegenation laws in 17 and its subsequent effect to prevent member of the 100th Bn. States. He also served in the U.S. Mili- land ownership by those aliens ineligi- tary Intelligence Service. ble for citizenship. I was seated next to Mrs. Marutani and her daughter. I had been on the I received the Freedom Award on be- I also told them about the 6,000 Japa- Board of the National Japanese half of members of the 442nd RCT. I nese Americans in the U.S. Army who American Memorial Foundation with spoke of its formation with volunteers were used as interpreters and transla- Bill Marutani, and I had the highest from Hawaii classified as unfit for mili- tors for the Pacific theater and who respect for him. He was a judge for tary duty and volunteers from the in- served with all major units, both US the Court of Common Pleas of Phila- ternment camps, and the record of the and Allied. The audience was further delphia County from 1975 to 1986, 100th Bn, which became the 442nd’s lst told of the capture of battle plans for the first Asian American to receive a Bn, since so many replacements came Midway Island and translation of those judgeship of general jurisdiction out- from there. I discussed the exploits of plans which meant the destruction of side of the Pacific Coast States. He the 100th-442nd in Italy and France and the Japanese fleet as a fighting force. was on the Commission on Wartime the casualties suffered with the rescue DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 7

Documentary About Kuroki Lincoln, Nebraska. Nebraska Gover- were killed in the low- nor Dave Hineman and Nebraska level raid on the oil refiner- First Lady Sally Ganem hosted a pre- ies, Hitler’s “gas station.” miere of “Most Honorable Son,” a 13 survivors, including Ku- documentary on the life of Ben Ku- roki and his crew's navigator roki, in Lincoln, Nebraska on Aug. 1, LTC Ed Weir, were present 2007. Kuroki, a Hershey, Nebraska at the viewing of the film. native, flew 58 missions in Europe Weir had submitted an eye and the Pacific as a gunner during witness account to the War L-R: Ben Kuroki and wife Shige, and Nebraska Gover- nor Dave Hineman. Photo courtesy of Scott Stewart. WW II. The documentary drew a Department, urging standing ovation from the audience of a Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) moniker given me by crew member 600 when retired news anchor Tom for Kuroki. Weir traveled from Texas, Red Kettering,” Kuroki explained. Brokaw gave the introduction via and the reunion with Kuroki at the “He did not mince words in calling the video-tape. "His story is one of the premiere was their first since 1946. Japanese enemy dishonorable most profound examples of patriotism Kuroki expressed gratitude to his Ne- S.O.B.s. In contrast, he tagged me at and service to our country,” Governor braska friends and his 93rd Bomb first as just Honorable Son. However, Heineman said. PBS broadcasted Group for “going to bat for him so many after facing enemy gunfire together, “Most Honorable Son” on Sept. 17. decades after the fact.” He credited his esteem for me was somewhat esca- booklets produced by the late Cal Stew- lated, and he upgraded my title to The premiere also paid tribute to all art that played key roles in his receiv- Most Honorable Son.” Kuroki called Nebraska veterans and to survivors ing the DSM in 2005. the premiere an incredible day in his of the historic Ploesti mission. On life. that mission, 52 of the 178 planes “‘Most Honorable Son,’ the title of book- were lost and more than 300 airmen lets and documentary, was the

Japanese American Veterans Recognized in DC Events The late Gene Takahashi, Korean War veteran, Joe Ichiuji, the 442nd RCT, service in Italy, France and Germany, where 522nd Field Artillery Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat his unit liberated one of the sub camps at Dachau where Team, and Grant Hirabayashi, Military Intelligence Service Jews were exterminated. He found it ironic that he was and Merrill’s Marauders, were featured in three events on freeing the Jews while his own family was incarcerated in September 30, 2007, in Washington, D.C. Mrs. Vi Takaha- the U.S. shi and Ichiuji appeared in the seventh annual National Book Festival, sponsored by the Library of Congress, at The Hirabayashi was Mall. Over 100,000 people visited the Book Festival, in one of the seven which 70 authors discussed their work. Hirabayashi ap- veterans to be rec- peared in A Tribute to WW II Veterans, sponsored jointly by ognized with the WETA-TV, Friends of the National WW II Memorial, and reading of a citation the U.S. Army, at the WW II Memorial grounds. Ken and receiving a U.S. Burns and Lynn Novick, co-producers of THE WAR, spoke Army certificate of prior to the showing of the 15-hour PBS epic on WW II. appreciation. His citation said that Vi Takahashi, widow of Gene, was recognized by the mod- when Hirabayashi erator and members of the panel, which discussed the late was accused by a David Halberstam’s recently published book, the Coldest Japanese Prisoner Winter. Gene Takahashi was featured prominently in this of War as being a book. Takahashi’s company was overrun by the Chinese “traitor,” Hirabaya- Ken Burns, co-producer of the film THE communist militia. Captured and being escorted to the Chi- WAR, and Grant Hirabayashi, at the site of shi responded “if nese Army rear headquarters, Takahashi escaped, returned the World War II Memorial in Washington, our veins are cut to his unit, refurbished and retrained his unit for redeploy- DC. Photo courtesy of Grant Hirabayashi. the same blood will ment, and was seriously wounded in a subsequent action. flow. The differ- ence is that you are a Japanese and you fight for your coun- Ichiuji took part in a demonstration oral history interview try; I am a Japanese American and I fight for my coun- which featured a high school student and teacher from Gar- try. Don’t call me a traitor.” The citation also said that ret County, Virginia. The student interviewed Ichiuji, who “some 3,000 Japanese Americans served in the Asia Pacific discussed his induction and training prior to Japan’s attack theater as translators, interrogators, communication inter- of Pearl Harbor, discharge because of his race, incarceration ceptors, and combatants, who operated behind the enemy in one of the 10 internment camps, voluntary enlistment in lines to sabotage their operations.” DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 8

count is that 77 the grandsons of David Belden Meet the Flag Officers AHPIAs have Lyman, a Protestant missionary been promoted to from New England who settled in THE LYMAN BROTHERS OF HA- generals and admirals, including GEN the Hilo, Hawaii area. They are WAII, BOTH WEST POINT GRADU- Eric Shinseki of Kauai, Hawaii, who also descendents of Kualii, high ATES, ARE THE FIRST ASIAN HA- wore four stars as the U.S. Army’s 34th chief of Oahu. Their nephew, Rich- WAIIAN PACIFIC ISLAND AMERI- Chief of Staff. Of the 77, 49 served in ard Lyman, Jr. was a trustee of CANS TO GAIN GENERAL’S RANK. the U.S. Army, 12 in the U.S. Navy, 15 Bishop Estate in Honolulu, Hawaii. in the U.S. Air Force, and one in the The Lyman House Memorial Mu- Brigadier General Albert Kualii U.S. Marines. Broken down in another seum in Hilo, the repository of the Brickwood Lyman, USA, and Briga- way, 20 are Chinese Americans, 6 Fili- history of Lyman family, is open to dier General Charles Reed Bishop pino Americans, 18 Hawaii Pacific Is- the public. Lyman, USA, brothers born in Paau- lands, and 33 Japanese Americans. hau, Hamakua Coast, Hawaii, were [JAVA is grateful to Ms. Daisy Mat- the first ethnic Hawaiian and the first Albert and Charles attended schools in sushita and Ms Lynn K. Elia, Regis- Asian-Hawaiian-Pacific Islander Hilo and the Kamehameha and Puna- trar at Lyman Museum, both of American (AHPIA) to attain the rank hou schools in Honolulu and graduated Hilo, Hawaii, and to Charles B. of general or admiral in the U.S. from the U.S. Military Academy at Lyman III of Maui Meadows Farms, Armed Forces. This was achieved West Point, New York. From a family West Chester, Pennsylvania, for during World War II. The present of 15 siblings, Albert and Charles are their research and assistance.] BG Albert K. B. Lyman BG Charles R. B. Lyman BG Albert Lyman (May BG Charles Lyman (August 20, 1888 – 5, 1885 – August 13, April 15, 1981) graduated from West 1942) graduated from Point on June 12, 1913. During his 36 West Point with honors, years in the Army, Charles had assign- No. 15 in his class of 103, ments in 9 states and three overseas with a major in engineer- posts, the latter of which were Austra- ing. During his 33 years lia, New Guinea and the Philippines. in the US Army, Albert He was the second AHPIA to be ac- had 25 assignments in 12 corded the rank of general or admiral. states and four overseas posts. His overseas posts While he loved horses and participated were Panama, France, in the U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team, Cuba and the Philip- his duty was almost wholly with the pines. infantry. In July 1941, shortly after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, Charles, a full colonel, was appointed military governor of Maui, Albert’s assignment in May 1940 at Schofield Bar- Lanai and Molokai. After 11 months in that position, he was de- racks, Oahu, Hawaii, where, as a full colonel, he ployed to Australia as assistant division commander of the 32nd was commanding officer of the 3rd Engineers. He Infantry Division. He was in the first group of troops which at- had previously served there in 1913 as a junior offi- tacked Tanah Merah Bay, Dutch New Guinea. He personally di- cer. He was also responsible for construction pro- rected front line units, which seized Hollandia. jects, thereby virtually performing two full-time jobs. He was promoted to Brigadier General on Au- Charles was promoted to brigadier general in 1944 and served as gust 11, 1942, and died two days later. He was commanding general of the 32nd Army Division which, in June stricken at the home of his brother-in-law and died 1945, was deployed in Luzon and subsequently in the Leyte cam- before medical help could reach him. paigns, Philippines. The war ended at this point, and Charles participated in the signing of the peace treaty in Baguio, Philip- Among his numerous awards, Albert was awarded pines. Charles’ decorations included the Combat Infantryman’s the Distinguished Service Medal posthumously for Badge, Silver Star for gallantry in leading his troops in the Dutch his service from July 1940 to August 1942 for com- New Guinea invasion, the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, pletion of “construction of defense projects before the the Bronze Star with oak leaf cluster, and 4 campaign ribbons. anticipated completion dates.” On April 19, 1943, the Hawaii State legislature declared that the main In 1946, following his retirement, Charles and his wife moved to passenger terminal of the Hilo International Airport West Chester, Pennsylvania where they operated the Maui be called the “General Lyman Terminal.” The mili- Meadow Farms, the oldest working thoroughbred farm in Pennsyl- tary schools he attended were the U.S. Army Engi- vania, to raise thoroughbred horses. They had one son, Charles neering School and the Army Industrial College. Jr. The Farms is currently run by Charles B. Lyman, III ([email protected]). DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 9 Satow Honored by VFW Posts

Susumu “Sus” Satow, Company H, vick’s documentary, THE WAR, which 442nd Regimental Combat Team, was we watched with undivided attention. honored by northern California VFW You reflected the views and senti- posts on October 20, 2007, for his role ments of all Nikkei, and we are proud in promoting the Japanese American and appreciative of what you and your cause and for mentoring emerging colleagues said and how you said it. Nikkei veteran leaders. About 30 THE WAR has documented the Japa- veterans, their wives, and guests par- nese American loyalty like no other ticipated in the lunch at the Mana presentation of its kind. This effort Japanese Restaurant in Sacramento, will be a key reference material for L-R: Sus Satow, Lawson Sakai, Mike Tsuji, California, sponsored by Sacramento future generations of historians, re- AJA WW II Memorial Alliance. Photo courtesy of Susan Uyemura. VFW Post 8985 and organized by Post searchers and scholars.” Satow, Sa- Commander Loren M. Ishii. kai, and Wakida are members of that Satow was “my mentor when I was JAVA. a new and inexperienced Post Com- mander. His willingness to help others Lawson Sakai, Co. E, 442nd RCT and Founding President of Friends and In his remarks, Sakai said “JAVA is has clearly become a hallmark of his Families, presented to Satow a letter to be commended for seeking out legacy.” Commander Ishii commended from JAVA President Bob Nakamoto these veterans and honoring them Satow, saying “Sus epitomized the Ni- and a JAVA memento coin. The let- wherever possible. . .we ask all of you sei Veteran in that he was proud, but ter, read by Donald Wakida, past to join JAVA and help them achieve unassuming. For many years, he was Commander of VFW Post 8499, said their goals. . . . On behalf of JAVA, I the face of the Nisei veteran and men- JAVA expresses “our admiration to am honored to present Susumu Satow tored many newer and younger veter- you and other NISEI who were fea- with this JAVA coin and letter from ans within the various Nisei posts in tured in Ken Burns and Lynn No- President Nakamoto.” Wakida said the State of California.”

Robert Kuroda, Joe Nishimoto, James A Visit to Vosges Contributed by Dr. James C. McNaughton Okubo and George Sakato). We were grate- ful to get back in the car and return to our [Dr. James C. McNaughton, Command His- comfortable hotel and a nice meal, with much to torian for European Command and author of reflect upon. On the way back home the next day Nisei Linguists: Japanese Americans in the we stopped at a French military cemetery near Military Intelligence Service During WW II, Colmar about 35 miles to the east of Bruyeres. and his wife Pam, visited the Vosges region By then the weather had cleared, and the ceme- of eastern France where the 442d RCT had tery had a breathtaking view of the Rhine val- made a historic contribution to the defeat of ley. We could see all the way across to the Black Germany.] Forest. The cemetery had rows of crosses and Stars of David, and hundreds of markers bearing On Veterans Day we paid our respects at the Muslim names from Algeria and Morocco who U.S. military cemetery at Epinal, where the “died for France.” That key terrain was what the superintendent gave us a list of 12 members 442d’s fight at Bruyeres was all about, to drive of the 442d RCT interred there (10 Nisei through the difficult Vosges Mountains until the enlisted, 1 Caucasian officer) or listed as Germans were thrown back across the Rhine. missing (1 Nisei). We then drove to Bru- Once the U.S. Seventh Army and the French yeres and visited the 442d RCT monument Dr. McNaughton and the First Army had forced their way through to the “Friendship Knot” sculpted on a nearby hillside. It had recently been eastern edge of the Vosges, the Germans knew and donated by 442d veteran cleaned, repainted and decorated with and JAVA member and sculp- the war was lost. flower wreathes for the town's liberation tor Shinkichi Tajiri. ceremony a week or so previously. We then [Editor’s note: The McNaughtons’ visit reminded drove to Biffontaine and up a narrow logging road into COL Vic Mukai, USA (Ret), of a similar family trip to the re- the hills where the 100th Battalion fought its way gion several years ago. The graves of the 12 soldiers of the through to “The Lost Battalion.” We got out to walk 442nd at Epinal cemetery are of those whose families did not around, but it was cold, wet and windy and the forest request their remains be returned to the States, but they con- (postwar new growth) was dark and forbidding. I can tinue to serve as reminders of heroic sacrifices of the Japanese hardly imagine trying to fight the elements, fierce Ger- Americans. Most importantly, they are certainly not forgotten, man resistance, and the tree bursts from German artil- for when COL Mukai asked whether many visitors inquire lery for days on end. It’s hard to believe that on those about the Nisei buried there, the Epinal superintendent re- steep ridgelines several Nisei soldiers were awarded the plied, “Oh, yes, all the time…,” and showed him a well-worn DSC and five earned the Medal of Honor (Barney Hajiro, book about the 442d that he kept in his outer visitors office.] PAGE 10 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007 JAVA October Luncheon Highlights

Over 80 JAVA members, families and Dr. Brian Hayashi, Associate Profes- friends attended the Fall Quarterly sor at Kyoto University, the principal lunch at the Harvest Moon Restaurant speaker, discussed his forthcoming in Fall Church, Virginia on Oct. 27. book on the role of Nisei in the Office Members from Williamsburg, Virginia of Strategic Services (OSS), the and Boston, Massachusetts and a visi- predecessor of the Central Intelli- tor from Kobe, Japan were present. gence Agency, who served in Burma The purposes of these luncheons are to and China. In Burma the OSS oper- promote comradeship, and to learn the ated behind enemy lines to collect latest on matters relating to veterans vital intelligence and to work with issues, Japanese American and Asian local guerilla forces to disrupt enemy JAVA President Bob Nakamoto presents American issues, as well as on defense operations. The OSS did similar JAVA coin to speakers. L-R: Dr. Brian Haya- shi, Nakamoto, Counselor Misako Ito, COL and security issues. work in China and also freed Allied Robert Patrick. Photo by Nelson Penalosa. prisoners. His book will be published Counselor Misako Ito, director of the by the Oxford University Press next Japan Information and Culture Center, year. dissertation. the first speaker, described the organi- zation, function and mission of the Other guests were Lawrence H. JICC. COL Robert Patrick, USA (Ret), McDonald, senior archivist at the Special thanks to the Luncheon Com- Director of the Library of Congress Vet- National Archives and Records Ad- mittee: Chairman Grant Ichikawa, erans History Project, the second ministration (NARA) and his wife Marcia Mau, Betty Taira and Bar- speaker, discussed the mission and role Martha. Ms. Yuka Fujioka, Lecturer bara Nekoba, Master of Ceremonies of the Project. He said they are at- at the Kansai International Univer- Lt Col Mike Yaguchi, USAF (Ret), tempting to capture as many veterans’ sity and a PhD candidate at Kobe and program handouts prepared by oral histories as quickly as possible be- University, was present to contact Erika Moritsugu, Esq. fore these experiences are lost forever. JAVA veterans to gather data for her

Go For Broke National Education Center Award

[Condensed from GFBNEC Service veteran and former Adjutant General of Hawaii. Press Release] Peterson said, “I feel especially privileged to enjoy the com- radeship of you — the heroes and examples of my youth — JAVA, represented by its men and women who, while being distrusted, suppressed President Robert Nakamoto, and mistreated, stood up and demanded the right to dem- and 15 other Japanese Ameri- onstrate your loyalty, patriotism, rights of citizenship and can veterans organizations commitment to our country. . . . Your service elevated the received the Go For Broke Na- status of Japanese Americans in the eyes of your fellow tional Education Center countrymen. Starting with the Second World War and (GFBNEC) award at its 6th continuing through today, your exploits raised the status Annual Evening of Aloha Din- of Americans of Japanese descent, and consequently also ner at the Hilton Hotel in Ana- raised the status of all Asian Pacific Americans.” Peterson heim, California. The presen- inspired the veterans to be proud of their distinguished tation was made by Marshall Ozawa of the Union Bank of legacy and to band to- California and Corinne Akahoshi of Toyota Motor Sales, gether to continue to pur- USA, on November 10, 2007. There were 1,400 attendees, sue their common cause. including 200 volunteers. The Go For Broke Spirit Award was presented for service and commitment on behalf of The general encouraged fellow veterans. veterans who have not provided oral history in- LTG Joseph F. Peterson, Deputy Commanding General terviews to do so as an and Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Forces Command and a extension of their military highly decorated Iraq war veteran (pictured right), was the duty. He said their oral keynote speaker. Peterson is the highest ranking Asia histories will strengthen Pacific American officer on active duty in the Armed the Nisei legacy of WW II. Forces. Part Japanese, Chinese and Hawaiian, he is the He said if they fail to do it nephew of MG Arthur Ishimoto, a Military intelligence their unique experience will be lost forever. DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 11

The American Dream - The Two Gene Takahashis (part 2) By David Halberstam

[Editor’s note: This is the second part of a As we sat and talked, it struck me that Tak two-part article, the first part was published was as good an exemplar of the American in the July 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE. Gene Dream as anyone I know—he was in the best Takahashi, Korean War veteran and JAVA sense of this country a self-made man who member, passed away on May 15, 2007. The had been able, often against often-difficult article, entitled “The American Dream - The odds, to control his own destiny as he might Two Gene Takahashis,” was written by not have in many other countries. David Halberstam, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, historian and the author of books It was a long way from the Nisei internment including The Best and the Brightest and the Coldest Winter camps of the '40s to his lovely home in Westport. He had (Fall 2007). This book, which features Takahashi, is an ac- during his journey triumphed over some of the crueler count of a key early battle in the Korean War. Halberstam prejudices of our culture, harsh experiences that might died in an auto accident on April 23, 2007, on a California have embittered other men, and he had survived the worst expressway.] of a very tough war and a battlefield experience that might have broken other men. He had managed to educate him- When the Chinese struck that night, with perhaps a full self well, first at Case Western Reserve and then later at regiment or about 3,000 men, Love Company had about 170 the University of Illinois. His marriage to a fellow Nisei, men, including Tak's platoon of 45. The Chinese quickly Violette (Vi), has been strong and enduring, and their four overran the company, but Takahashi had tried to hold to- children had all been educated well and done well profes- gether first his own platoon, and in time the entire company, sionally and personally. if for no other reason than to buy time for other units just south of them. Most important of all, he had, as his parents intended, suc- ceeded well beyond their possibilities—and done it as so Takahashi held out until he was completely surrounded by many other Americans have, in just one generation. His the Chinese and was finally captured. (That made him, he parents had been farmers in the Imperial Valley and then decided, one of the rare men who had been taken prisoner by had run a small grocery store there; to them, a house in a two formidable nations, the United States and China.) But wealthy suburb like Westport was more a dream than a that night, in the chaos of the battle, he managed to escape. possibility. A few days later, he managed a second escape when much of the Second Division was mauled heading south from a place The greatest generation, you might call them. They were called Kunuri. When he was able to regroup with other willing to come here and if necessary sacrifice themselves members of Love Company near Seoul a few days later, there in order to break a cycle in their native countries that were about 10 of his men left there. seemed without possibility of change. They sensed that in the new world the generations that came after them would I sat with Takahashi that day in Westport, and it was easy be able to break out and reinvent themselves—that they to envision him as brave and quietly fierce, absolutely cer- were giving the subsequent generations a world with no tain of what his duty was, sure he was going to die that night ceilings. but determined to do the right thing right up to his last breath, and do it as honorably as he could. There would be Like so many other immigrants, Tak's parents had under- no disgracing of a family name. At the same time, in stark stood the opportunities this country offered from the start. contrast to that image of Tak fighting the Chinese, I could As such, the dream was as much—or more—theirs as it see him as his neighbors saw him, a pillar of a pleasant gen- was his. As they had valued education, he had valued edu- teel community, always to be depended on during local fund- cation. As they had been disciplined and purposeful— raisers; an exceptional family man; and a successful execu- always purposeful, for nothing was to be wasted—he had tive at a major company. In short, all the good things you're been disciplined and purposeful and wasted nothing, least supposed to be. of all a chance for a better life. And in the end he had done well and not disgraced the Takahashi name.

Letter to JAVA President Robert Nakamoto from U.S. Congressman Bob Filner, dated Aug. 23, 2007:

Thank you for your letter and for the support by the Japanese American Veterans Association of my bill, the “Filipino Vet- erans Equity Act” (H.R. 760).

As you may know, this bill has been passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives Veterans’ Affairs Commit- tees. When Congress re-convenes in September, we will be working for passage by the full House and Senate. Your sup- port is a vital addition to the push for the passage of this legislation!

Please share my deep appreciation with the Officers, Board of Directors, and Members of your organization. PAGE 12 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

and civilian leaders who seek mentorship PPALM Launched on Veterans Day and counsel from senior leaders and men- tors who have similar experiences in the by COL Rebecca C. Samson, USA military. It is a forum for interactive com- munications among its members and the On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2007, the Pan Pacific American community in supporting and assisting these young lead- Leaders and Mentors (PPALM) group was inaugurated in ers. As the Army continues to be involved with the high Washington, D.C. and dedicated in honor of America’s 24 pace of deployments and long separation from loved ones million veterans. This day marked a significant milestone in time of war, Soldiers will be faced with dilemmas of con- since the concept of PPALM was initiated almost two years tinued service or separation. PPALM is designed to help ago. PPALM is a nonprofit organization with the purpose to with these situations while at the same time be value- promote engagement in mentoring, leadership, professional added and complementary to the Army Strong recruiting development, retention, and advancement of Army leaders campaign. “We in PPALM are extremely excited with the — Active, Reserve, National Guard, and DA civilians. Its prospects of assisting the Army and in being a conduit to main themes are service to nation, answering the call to helping AAPI Army leaders,” said BG Fred Wong, USA duty, and supporting the “Army Strong” recruiting cam- (Ret), Vice Chairman of PPALM. paign. PPALM welcomes anyone wishing to join even though its principal emphasis is on developing and fostering Asian American Pacific Islanders have served proudly in Asian American Pacific Islander Army officers. our nation’s armed forces for over 100 years. Their selfless service is characterized by a historic tradition of uncom- “The idea for PPALM was born in March 2006 when a group mon courage in war and unquestioned loyalty for love of of retired Army officers and volunteers spoke of doing some- country. They have led with exceptionally talented and thing tangible for fellow Asian American Pacific Islander competent leaders. They continue to lead Soldiers today. (AAPI) Army officers. This group of retired Army officers Their inspiration deeply motivated PPALM’s sense of obli- and volunteers are truly concerned about the continued rep- gation to help AAPI Army leaders to continue to serve the resentation of AAPI Army officers at the current rate. nation and represent the Army in positions of leadership. These concerns included retention, selections to schools and “We need to sustain and nurture this long and proud tradi- command, and overall advancements to positions of leader- tion,” Taguba said. ship. We were determined to create an avenue to help them and the Army in order to sustain the growth in representa- JAVA President Bob Nakamoto said “the activation of tion of AAPI Army officers,” said MG Tony Taguba, USA PPALM is timely. This mentoring service is greatly (Ret), Chairman of PPALM. needed to assist interested Asian Pacific Americans in the U.S. Army to achieve their career goals.” More details on PPALM’s aim is to provide a venue for AAPI Army officers PPALM can be obtained on the website www.ppalm.org.

PPALM organizers with George Sakato, 442nd RCT Medal of Honor recipient at Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism in Washing- ton, DC following PPALM official launch. L-R: LTC Jim Choung, USA; LTC Paul Shelton, USAR; BG Fred Wong, USA (Ret); COL Rebecca Samson, USAR; Sakato; MG Tony Taguba, USA (Ret); Dr. Glenda Nogami; COL Tony Moreno, USA (Ret); COL Bobby Lum Ho, USA (Ret); Lt Col Mike Yaguchi, USAF (Ret). Photo by Brandon J. Riddle, son of COL Samson.

The Official JAVA Coin THE OFFICIAL JAVA COIN FOR SALE NOW! Each coin is $10, plus $1 shipping. The newly-minted Send checks payable to “JAVA” to: JAVA coin makes a JAVA Books wonderful gift P.O. Box 59 or keepsake. Dunn Loring, VA 22027

DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 13

liberated a Nisei Veterans Stamp Campaign subcamp of the Dachau The commemorative postage stamp under Grant Ichikawa, the concentration campaign to honor Nisei World War II campaign has since become a camps in Ger- soldiers has collected over 10,000 nationwide effort to honor the many. Rabbi written petitions and over 6,000 sign- 30,000 Japanese Americans Cooper said ups online, letters of support from who served in the U.S. armed “in supporting Members of Congress, veterans and forces overseas and at home. the stamp civic organizations, and resolutions Wayne Osako, campaign coordi- campaign you from city legislatures. On December Rabbi Adam Cooper, Associate Dean nator, said these veterans are are honoring 20, 2007, the Simon Wiesenthal Cen- of the Wiesenthal Center, at the now in their 80’s and 90’s and it the Nisei sol- ter of Los Angeles, one of the largest press conference. Photo courtesy of is the Campaign’s goal to get GFBNEC. diers and Jewish human rights organizations, the Nisei stamp approved while educating held a press conference to pledge sup- they are still living. Osako said sup- millions of people on the Nisei WW II port for the Nisei WW II Veterans porters should not be discouraged if experience.” Rabbi Shamuel Novack of Commemorative Stamp Campaign. approval is not granted on the first Jacksonville, Florida, approached the On January 10, 2008, a Hawaii State attempt. He said stamp selection is Wiesenthal Center for assistance after press conference is planned at the typically a long process and people he joined the campaign because his Governor’s Palace in Honolulu, Ha- must persevere until the proposal is grandfather was an officer of the 442nd waii, to announce the drive for a Ha- approved. He added that commemora- RCT. waii state resolution. California and tive postage stamps have been issued Illinois will be following with their to other minority veterans, such as the own resolutions. A Congressional Buffalo Soldiers (92nd African Ameri- For information, call 714-534-5139, go Letter of Support for the stamp is cur- can Infantry Division) and the His- to www.niseistamp.org, or email rently circulating in the U.S. Con- panic American veterans. A Tuskegee [email protected]. Letters of support gress. Campaign supporters are being Airmen stamp proposal is currently and petitions may be sent to: Citizens’ urged to ask their members of con- under consideration by the Postal Ser- Stamp Advisory Committee, ATTN: Mr. gress to sign. These efforts are di- vice as well. Terrence McCaffrey, USPS – Stamp rected to the U.S. Postal Service Citi- Development, 1735 North Lynn St, zens’ Stamp Advisory Committee Suite 5013, Arlington, VA 22209-6432. Japanese Americans have received which meets on January 24-25, 2008, Also, please send a copy to Wayne highly welcomed support from the to formally consider the Nisei WWII Osako, 11422 Presidio Way; Garden Jewish community stemming from Veterans Stamp proposal. Grove, CA 92840. long term associations. Rabbi Abra- ham Cooper, Associate Dean of the Started four years ago as a grassroots Wiesenthal Center, is a good friend of [full press release at www.javadc.org] project long supported by the JAVA one veteran of the 522nd FA, which

Older Brother Sister’s Life-Long Hero by Laurie Au [Reprinted with permission from erans at the cemetery ended yester- “I wish my mom and dad were alive KaMai Forum] day morning, Korenaga and her hus- to see the honor that was extended to band placed a fresh bouquet of flow- him. It’s sad, and yet we shouldn’t Anxious to see her oldest brother be- ers next to Nakamine’s plot with a forget what they did for us,” Ko- fore he left for war, a little girl of 11 little baby blue colored flag that dis- renaga said. “I want my grandchil- sprinted to Pokai Bay and waved at tinguishes him as a Medal of Honor dren to continue doing what we’re the departing train, passing a blur of recipient. Nakamine, a private with doing today so that our family never men in brown uniforms. “I thought, Hawaii’s famed 100th Battalion In- forgets Shinyei.” Korenaga, the only ‘Gee, I hope my brother saw me,’” fantry, was recognized posthumously daughter and youngest of four, re- said Anita Korenaga, now 77, a Waia- by President Clinton in 2000. members picking kiawe beans with nae resident. A few months after he her brother and selling them to plan- left, Korenaga received a photo in the On June 2, 1944, his platoon was tation workers in Waianae. He mail from her brother Shinyei Na- pinned down by intense machine-gun taught her how to ride a bike. He kamine—a photo of her smiling and fire at La Torreto, Italy. Nakamine, bought his baby sister her first pair waving at the passing train. That on his own initiative, destroyed one of shoes. And the money she re- was in 1941. machine-gun nest and successfully ceived for his death paid for her tui- led the attack on another, killing and tion at the University of Hawaii, Thirty-three years after his death in capturing several soldiers. Na- where she earned a teaching degree World War II, Korenaga still visits kamine, 24, was killed by a burst of to later become a teacher at Waianae his grave at the National Memorial machine-gun fire while trying to de- High School. “He really took care of Cemetery of the Pacific several times stroy a third machine-gun nest. me all my life,” Korenaga said. a year. As a ceremony honoring vet- PAGE 14 JAVA ADVOCATE DECEMBER 2007

one year prior to the date of sub- ([email protected]; 301-652- Scholarship News mission of the application. 8135. JAVA will award three scholarships * * * * * (2) Conditions. All applications of $1,000 each, which will be pre- must be accompanied by documen- sented in May 2008, from the Or- The Go For Broke National Edu- tation showing that the applicant ville Shirey, Jack Tashiro and Doug- cation Center recently announced has been admitted by an accred- las Ishio Memorial Scholarship that the Eiro Yamada Scholar- ited academic institution (i.e. a Funds (MSF). Qualified candidates ship is now available for students college, university, professional are encouraged to apply. A sum- entering college or currently en- school or institution that provides mary of the rules that govern the rolled in an undergraduate or specialized post high school educa- program and the application form graduate program at a trade tion). were provided in the October 2007 school, community college, or 4- JAVA ADVOCATE. They can also year college or university. There be found on JAVA website (3) Transcript. A high school is no minimum grade point aver- (www.javadc.org). MAJ Shirey was transcript, if the applicant were age requirement, just an essay. the G-2 (Intelligence) of the 442nd starting post secondary school The deadline is March 15, 2008, Regimental Combat Team and au- education, or a certified copy of and recipients will be notified on thor of Americans: The Story of the college transcript, if already in or before April 30, 2008. nd college, is required. 442 Combat Team. Mr. Tashiro To qualify, applicants must also was an MIS veteran and was Treas- be one of the following: (1) a di- (4) Deadline. Applications must urer of JAVA. Mr. Ishio was an en- rect descendant of a Japanese be received by April 1, 2008. gineer and is the son of JAVA foun- American veteran who served der COL Phil Ishio, USA (Ret), and during World War II, or (2) a de- his wife Connie. The high points of (5) Send applications to: JAVA scendant once removed of a Japa- the scholarship program are as fol- Books – Scholarship Program; nese American serviceman or lows: P.O. Box 59; Dunn Loring, VA servicewoman killed in action 22027. during World War II (i.e. great- (1) Qualifications. Any applicant niece or great-nephew). who is related by blood or marriage For further details please access to (A) an honorably discharged the JAVA website at For more information on the Japanese American member of the www.javadc.org. If you have ques- scholarship and application, go to U.S. Armed Forces, or (B) a member tions, contact Calvin Ninomiya, www.goforbroke.org. of JAVA for a period of no less than Chair, Scholarship Committee

JAVA Quarterly Luncheon on January 19, 2008

Mark your calendar! The JAVA quarterly lunch will be invitation to be our principal speaker. He will speak for on Saturday, January 19, 2008, 11:30 AM at the Har- 10 minutes about what the new Army is like and the ca- vest Moon Restaurant on 7260, Arlington Blvd, Falls reer advantages young men and women can derive while Church, VA (703-573-6000). Call Betty Taira at 202- at the same time serving their nation. MG Bostic is Afri- 347-1699 or email to [email protected] to reserve can American Japanese. your place. Please mail your reservation check payable to “JAVA” to reach Betty by January 17, 2008, to 701 Second, we have accepted the U.S. Army’s offer to attend Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Apt. 1223, Washington, DC our luncheon to present a “Commendation package which 20004. includes an Army lapel pin, a certificate and letter of ap- preciation, both signed by the Secretary of the Army Pete This meeting is to celebrate another great year for Geren and Army Chief of Staff GEN George W. Casey, JAVA in terms of substantive accomplishments and Jr.” This program is called the U.S. Army Freedom Team projecting JAVA into the league of other major national Salute and is designed “to honor Army veterans of all veterans organizations. We will have two major items generations who have worked to keep the U.S. free.” Rep- on the program. First, MG Thomas Bostic, Command- resenting Secretary Geren, Ms. Lynn Heirakuji, Deputy ing General of U.S. Army Recruiting Command, whose Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Re- headquarters is at Fort Knox, KY, has accepted our serve Affairs, will speak for 5 minutes. DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 15 Mukoyama Appointed Chair of VA Committee MG James H. Muko- assesses the needs of American in U.S. Army history to yama, Jr., USA (Ret), minority veterans, command a Division, consisting of of Glenview, Illinois, and reviews VA pro- about 15,000 soldiers. He retired newly appointed grams and activities from the reserves in 1995. Chairman of the Advi- designed to meet sory Committee on those needs.” On November 5, 2007, Chairman Mu- Minority Veterans koyama escorted his Committee and (ACMV), presided Mukoyama said the Director McClenney to visit the Na- over his first ACMV job is challenging and tional Japanese American Memorial meeting in Washing- believes the Commit- to Patriotism, located near the U.S. ton, D.C. in early No- tee’s recommenda- Capitol Building. Mukoyama was a vember 2007. He has tions have benefited former member of the National Japa- been a member of the the 360,000 Asian nese American Memorial Foundation ACMV since 2003 and American veterans. (NJAMF) Board of Directors. Paul Y. vice chairman since “We do all of this Tani, Senior Docent, and Gerald Ya- 2005. Mukoyama was appointed as with a specific emphasis on minority mada, Esq, President and Executive Chairman on July 7, 2007, by Secre- veterans. We have definitely made Director of the NJAMF, briefed the tary of Veterans Affairs R. James an impact in the past and will con- visitors. At the end of the visit, Ker- Nicholson. Mukoyama is a Life tinue to focus on how the VA can win E. Miller, Esq, Veterans Affairs Member of JAVA. improve its service to all of our veter- Director of the Government of the L-R: Sandra Tanamachi, Marty Higgins, ans, but especially the minority vet- District of Columbia and a member of Col Brian Shiroyama. COL Lucretia McClenney, USA erans,” Mukoyama said. the ACMV, summed up the visitors’ (Ret), Director of the VA Office of views when he said, “Our solemn visit Minority Veterans, said “the Advi- Mukoyama had two combat tours, to the Memorial was a fitting kickoff sory Committee on Minority Veter- one as a platoon leader in the Demili- to our Advisory Committee meeting ans, mandated by U.S. Congress, is tarized Zone in Korea and another as because it reminds us of the selfless composed of veterans of all ranks a company commander in Vietnam. sacrifices and contributions of our and services appointed by the Secre- Following his Vietnam tour in 1969- Japanese Americans veterans and tary of Veterans Affairs. Members 70, Mukoyama left active duty and their families. It will also help us represent the five minority groups entered private industry. He also focus on the significant contributions the Center is required to oversee. joined the reserves in which he made by our minority veterans and The Committee advises the Secre- served for another 25 years, rising to develop sound recommendations for tary and Congress on VA's admini- Division Commander with the rank the VA Secretary.” stration of benefits and provision of of Major General, the first Asian health care to minority veterans,

Pictured Below Left: On Dec. 10, 2007, the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program, Japanese American Veterans Association, National Japanese American Memorial Foundation, Japanese American Citizens League, and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations held a panel discussion at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. Featured on the panel were Dr. Brian Hayashi (left), Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Hu- man and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, and MG Antonio Taguba (right), recently retired from the U.S. Army and the second highest-ranking Filipino American officer. Hayashi is the author of two award-winning books, including Democratizing the Enemy: The Japanese American Concentration Camps, and is currently writing a book on Asian Ameri- cans who served in the Office of Strategic Services. Taguba is Vice President of Serco Inc. and Chairman of the Pan Pacific American Leaders and Mentors Group. Hayashi discussed his forthcoming book and Taguba discussed his family's three generations of service in the U.S. Army. Pictured Below Right, L-R: Hayashi, Taguba, and Dr. Franklin Odo, Director of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program and author of several books, includ- ing No Sword to Bury: Japanese Americans in Hawaii During WW II.

Photos by Eric Lachica. DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 16

on December 7, 1941, an event that assured Hosokawa that it was his TAPS changed his life forever. His chances goal to change the Post’s reputation of finding a journalism job in the U.S. and asked Hosokawa to help him Bill Hosokawa, was now remote. achieve that goal. Hosokawa became 92, JAVA mem- a dedicated employee of the Post and ber, who held wrote a book about its history, Thun- various positions In 1942 Hosokawa, his wife and infant der in the Rockies: The Incredible in the Denver son were incarcerated in the Heart Denver Post. Post for 38 Mountain internment camp in Cody, years, passed Wyoming. His daughter, Susan away on Novem- Boatright, said while it was a humili- A leader of the Japan America Soci- ber 9, 2007, at ating experience, “he came away from ety of Colorado, Hosokawa visited the home of his daughter, Christie it not as a bitter man but as someone Japan and convinced the Japanese Harveson in Sequim, Washington. who wanted to educate the world industrialists to build their business He served in the Denver Post as a about that experience and make sure ventures in Colorado. From 1974- reporter, war correspondent in the it never happened again.” He wrote 1999 he served as the Honorary Con- Korean and Vietnam Wars, colum- ten books, including “Nisei: The Quiet sul General for Colorado in order to nist, editor of Empire, the newspa- Americans,” about the prejudice Japa- enhance relations between Japan and per’s Sunday magazine, and editorial nese immigrants and their children the U.S. Hosokawa was the recipient page editor. faced in the United States. While at of many awards, including the Ameri- Heart Mountain, he set up and edited can Civil Liberties Union’s White- a newspaper distributed to the camp’s head award for lifetime service on Following his graduation in journal- residents called The Heart Mountain behalf of those who suffer inequality. ism from the University of Washing- Sentinel. In 1943 he got a job at The ton, he could not find a job in Seat- Des Moines Register in Iowa and was tle. He spent a year in Singapore Asked what lesson he would pass to thus allows to leave the Camp. working on the English section of a young minority journalists, he said Japanese newspaper. From there he “the opportunity is there if you are went to Shanghai, China, where he Hosokawa joined the Denver Post, prepared to seize it. You have to be worked for the Far Eastern Review. known for discriminating against mi- qualified. You have to have an edu- He returned to Seattle five weeks norities, in 1946 when the manage- cation. But if you have the stuff to before Japan attacked Pearl Harbor ment changed. The new management make good with, the opportunity is there.”

Wreaths at Arlington Cemetery Contributed by Lona Ichikawa

My USO volunteer friends and I participated in the Wreaths Across America on Dec. 15, 2007. At 8:30 am in the chilly morning, we all gathered around Mr. Morrill Worcester and his wife Karen (pictured with their daughter) as they gave us guidelines on how to lay the wreaths against each tombstone. This is the 16th year that they have laid wreaths at Arlington Cemetery. Over 2,000 of us came out to join them lay the wreaths in Section 33 and in Section 60 where fresh graves of those who died in Iraq and Afghanistan are laid to Above: Lona Ichikawa and friends from USO at Section 33, rest. They asked us to read each tombstone and think about the per- Arlington Cemetery. Below: Lona Ichikawa with wreath. son(s) laid to rest there. They wanted us to realize that we may be the first visitor in many years to visit our veteran’s tombstone.

My friends and I respectfully laid our wreaths and gazed around in awe as we watched hundreds of people doing the same. So many people were willing to brave the cold and the threat of bad weather to honor these veterans who had given their all for our country.

As we walked among those graves, it really hit me the utter loss that these families felt as I looked at wreaths that had pictures cut and lovingly attached to them. There was one wreath that had several Shrek doll characters glued to it, and I found it so hard to look away. This experience really humbled me and at the same time made me so proud of these veterans and all of us who came out to honor and love what they stood and died for. We are such a patriotic country, and I am so proud to be an American! DECEMBER 2007 JAVA ADVOCATE PAGE 17

From the Editor articles and photos. Thank you I also want to congratulate Lt Col to all who have contributed, and Derek Hirohata, JAVA Life Mem- keep those great news stories ber, who was selected for promo- Happy New Year! coming! tion to Colonel in the U.S. Air Wow, what an excit- Force JAG Corps! ing 2007 we’ve had in As I reviewed past issues of the JAVA. I have been JAVA ADVOCATE, I realized If you have questions or com- receiving so many that for the October 2007 issue I ments, you may contact me at wonderful articles inadvertently omitted the second [email protected] or send that JAVA has de- part of the late David Halber- correspondence to me at Kay Wa- cided to permanently expand the stam’s tribute to the late Gene katake, CMR 435 Box 1317, APO JAVA ADVOCATE, which had pre- Takahashi. I have published it AE 09086 (use regular U.S. mail viously been limited to 12 pages, in in this issue. postage rates, not international order to accommodate more of the rates). Welcome New Members! David Masao Miyoshi (Palos Verdes Estates, CA) * Jason C. Paraiso (Alexandria, VA) * Randall T. Hiraki (Mililani, HI) Dr. Ellen Sawamura (San Francisco, CA) Brien Hoo (Daly City, CA) Russell K. Shoho (Placentia, CA) Dr. Howard Jay Kline (San Francisco, CA) Greg Tsujiuchi (Gardena, CA) Kenichiro Kobayashi (Sacramento, CA) Al Yahanda (San Jose, CA) Edwin Y. Mitoma (Rancho Palos Verdes, CA) * Denotes Life Membership

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: Cal Shintani, [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 Jan 19, 11:30am: JAVA Annual Meeting, Harvest Moon Rest., Falls Church, VA. Feb 2: Montgomery County Public Schools Teachers’ Workshop Feb 23, 3:30-5:30pm: Day of Remem- brance Program, Meyer Auditorium, Free Gallery of Art, Washington, DC Mar 8: JAVA Executive Council Meeting Mar 29-30: 442nd Hawaii, 65th Reunion Apr 4, 6pm: NJAMF 5th Annual Awards Above: WW II Dinner, Washington Capital Hilton, DC Nisei veterans Apr 5, 10am: NJAMF-JAVA 10th Annual proudly sing the Freedom Walk, JA Memorial, DC “442nd Fight Song” at Go For Broke May 15: Veterans Day National Commit- Nat’l Education tee Meeting, Veterans Affairs Office, DC Center Dinner May 17: JAVA Quarterly luncheon, Har- (story on page 10). vest Moon Rest, Falls Church, VA. An- Middle, L-R: Rene nouncement of Scholarship Awards. Gheeraert, Etienne Pourcher, Jim May 26, 10am: Memorial Day Program at Yamashita, Zvonka Pourcher, Simon Arlington Cemetery; 2pm: JAVA partici- Gheeraert, at the Nisei Veterans Reunion. Bottom, L-R: Frank Shi- pate in National Memorial Day Parade mada, Shuji Takemoto, Margaret May 31, 5:30pm: JA Natl Museum Do- Cross, Buddy Cross, at the Nisei Vet- nor Wall Dedication Prog., Los Angeles erans Reunion (story on page 5).