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“Perpetuation of the Legacy” As Americans of Japanese ancestry, our fathers of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team fought two battles in World War II: prejudice at home and the enemy in Europe. At the outbreak of the war, Japanese Americans faced suspicion and distrust. Executive Order 9066 by President Roosevelt sealed the fate of Japanese Americans living on the West Coast. They were placed in barbed wired internment camps, leaving behind property and possession. Through turmoil and adversity at home, our fathers enlisted and went off to fight in a war far away. They fought with valor and honor. They fought for a country that doubted their loyalty. Many perished in fighting for what they believed in: their family, their home, their country. By the war’s end, the Nisei soldiers, as they were sometimes called, gained respect and honor as a great military unit. To this day, the 442nd remains as the Army’s most highly decorated combat unit in U.S. history for its size and length of service. As sons and daughters, we will never forget the dedication, sacrifice and courage of our fathers. It is through their accomplishments that we are here today. It is through their valor that we take our place as citizens of this great country. To ensure that this great legacy lives on; this is the mission of our organization. |