Loyalty, Liberty and Patriotism: The Men of the 442nd
This last weekend was Memorial Weekend. It is a time when many people decorate the graves of those who have fallen in military service. I was asked by a local group to speak at a commemoration of the soldiers of Japanese ancestry who fought in the Nisei unit of the United States Army in World War II, the 442nd. I would like to share my comments with you in today's blog. ****** We have gathered here today to honor the memory of a unique group of fighting men. This group of men were members of one of the most highly decorated battalions in the Second World War: the 100th Infantry Regiment 442nd Regimental Combat Team, often known by their motto, “Go for Broke.” And go for broke they did. Those three words described the dedication and commitment and fighting spirit they brought to their task. But I would like to suggest that they be also known by three other words: “Loyalty, Liberty and Patriotism.” These men overwhelmingly volunteered for service during a period of U.S. Hi...