2009 Program - National Japanese American Memorial Foundation

NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL Foundation
1620 I Street NW, Suite 925 • Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 530-0015
Fax: (202) 530-0016
www.njamf.com
The National Japanese American
Memorial Foundation
Awards dinner gala
A celebration of patriotism and constitutional rights
April 17, 2009
THE NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
Honorary Board
Congressman Neil Abercrombie
Senator Daniel Akaka
George Ariyoshi, Esq.
Louis Caldera
Ann Curry
Robert J. Dole, Esq.
Chiyoko Doris Aiso Hoshide
Senator Daniel K. Inouye
Mike Lowry
Etsu Mineta Masaoka
H. Hershey Miyamura
Walter Mondale, Esq.
Adlai E. Stevenson, Esq.
Matsuo (Matsy) Takabuki, Esq.
Kristi Yamaguchi
Board of Directors
Chairs Emeritus
Rear Adm. Melvin H. Chiogioji (Ret.)
Warren Minami, Ph.D.
Senior Advisor
First Vice Chair
Norman Y. Mineta
Treasurer
David Asaki, Esq.*
Harry Abe, M.D.
Secretary
Chairman of the Board
Sidney Mukai*
Craig Uchida, Ph.D.*
Directors
Gordon A. Aoyagi
Eric K. Federing
John L. Fugh, Esq.
Jose Keichi Fuentes
Tatsuya T. Hofmann
S. Phil Ishio
David Iwata
Helen S. Kawagoe.*
Daphne Kwok*
Celso Mataac
Daniel P. Matthews
Tomio Moriguchi
Raymond S. Murakami, D.D.S.
Jane T. Nishida, Esq.*
James Y. Nishimura
Eric Y. Nishizawa, Esq.
Rose Ochi, Esq.
Sumiye Okubo
Peter M. Suzuki, Esq.
John Tagami
James Zogby, Ph.D.
General Counsel
The Roberts Group, LLC
John T. Nakahata, Esq.
* Executive Committee
Glenn Roberts, President
Aisha Brown, TRG Coordinator
Crane sculpture by Nina Akamu
National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
April 17, 2009
Dear Friends and Supporters:
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation (NJAMF), welcome to the
Sixth Annual Awards Dinner.
Tonight we are pleased to honor Japanese American Medal of Honor winners from two wars, CBS Television for its
exemplary episode of “Cold Case”, and Representative Xavier Becerra for leadership in promoting redress for the
Japanese Latin Americans interned in the United States during World War II. We are grateful for their contributions to
the American public.
During the past year, we have been very busy fulfilling our mission of educating the Nation about the Memorial and what
it represents – “our story, your rights”. We celebrated the 20th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of
1988 that resulted in an apology and reparations for the internment and led to the creation of the Memorial. We sponsored
events on Capitol Hill, at the Memorial, and in Seattle to thank our supporters and to continue to remind Americans about
the fragility of civil liberties.
To assist us in our mission we have formed strong partnerships with local and national organizations. At the Japanese
American National Museum in Los Angeles we erected the “Donor Wall”—a tribute to over 700 of our donors from
across the country. With the Japanese American Veterans Association and the Go For Broke National Education Center
we trained teachers in Montgomery County (MD) and Fairfax County (VA) schools about the internment and the bravery
of Japanese American veterans. With the Smithsonian Institution’s Asian Pacific American Program we honored the
67th Anniversary of the Day of Remembrance by sponsoring a panel discussion with authors David Mura, Kiyo Sato,
and Shirley Castelnuovo. They were joined by Cedrick Shimo, a military resister who offered a different viewpoint of
the Japanese American experience during WWII. And just last month we celebrated our 11th annual Cherry Blossom
Freedom Walk that featured Ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki, Secretary Norman Y. Mineta, Ms. Francey Lim Youngberg, Ms.
Soohyun (Julie) Koo, and Goodwill Ambassadors Grace Lee and Gregory Bennett. Karen Matsuoka, the chair of the
Freedom Walk Planning Committee, put together an outstanding event and we thank her for her efforts.
Looking to the future, in 2010 we will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the dedication of the Memorial. It’s hard to
believe that time has passed so quickly. Our plan for next year includes a number of celebrations in different cities across
the country, culminating in our annual gala dinner in the fall. Watch for our event in your city or in Washington, DC.
Thank you for your support of the Memorial. Please tell your family, friends, and colleagues about “our story, your
rights.”
Sincerely,
Craig D. Uchida, Ph.D.
Chairman of the Board
1620 I St. NW, Suite 925, Washington, DC 20006 ♦ ph: 202.530.0015 ♦ fax: 202.530.0016
♦ visit us online at www.njamf.com ♦
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Congratulations to the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation as it
honors and celebrates some very special Americans at the 2009 Annual Awards Dinner
featuring awards for Barney F. Hajiro, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hiroshi ‘Hershey’
Miyamura, and George Sakato. I regret not being able to be with you as you honor these
Medal of Honor recipients and I want to convey my deepest respect and appreciation.
Your gathering will be both memorable and inspiring.
The 2009 Special Recognition Legacy Award to Barney Hajiro, Senator Inouye,
Hershey Miyamura and George Sakato is so fitting and deserved that my emotions are
engaged. Their heroism and sacrifice in battle places them in a unique assemblage of
those who have gone beyond the explanation of history. These quiet men- of average
stature but giants in battle- performed the most unbelievable acts of heroism, personal
courage, stamina, determination, and devotion on behalf of their fellow Soldiers. No one
can train to do what they did. We could not have expected them to, nor would we have
ever asked them to risk everything they did of their own volition. Their valor and bravery
in battle are examples of soldierly virtue not only for Japanese Americans, but for all
Americans.
As President Truman noted of returning Nisei Veterans among our greatest
generation, “you fought not only the enemy, but you fought prejudice- and you won.”
Because of the actions on Barney Hajiro, Senator Inouye, Hershey Miyamura, George
Sakato and thousands of other brave Japanese Americans of the 100th Infantry
Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat team, 1399th Combat Engineers and the Military
Intelligence Service (MIS), the honor and valor of later generations of Japanese
Americans was never in doubt. I am personally indebted to them for the opportunity
to have chosen my profession and to have served as a Soldier for 38 years. From my
generation to yours, I thank you.
Once again, best wishes to the National Japanese American Memorial
Foundation members for a very successful 2009 Annual Awards Dinner recognizing
these superb awardees. They represent the indomitable will of the American Soldier and
the tremendous heights to which a few of the brave can ascend. God bless each and
every one of you, and God bless America.
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Dear Friends,
It is my distinct honor to bring you greetings on the occasion of the National
Japanese American Memorial Foundation 2009 Annual Awards Dinner. I
commend tonight’s honorees, CBS Television Network, Congressman Xavier
Becerra, Barney F. Hajiro, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hiroshi Miyamura, George
T. Sakato.
The National Japanese American Memorial Foundation’s recognition of those
who serve the Japanese American community and our country in a manner
consistent with the spirit on the Memorial is to be praised. Your efforts are truly
helping to create a stronger future for us all.
Best wishes for a great event.
best regards,
NANCY PELOSI
Speaker of the House
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Dear Friends:
I wish to extend my warmest greetings to you on the occasion of the National Japanese
American Memorial Foundation’s (NJAMF) 2009 Annual Awards Dinner.
I am proud to hail from a West Coast state that has produced so many patriotic and civicminded Japanese Americans. However, my home state of California is certainly not the only one
which can boast of native sons and daughters who have demonstrated outstanding commitments
to our Nation and to our Constitution. As the work of the NJAMF has demonstrated, honoring the
service and sacrifice of Japanese Americans has involved great effort and dedication from people all
across the universality of purpose that this cause engenders within all of us. As long as this Memorial
stands, it will serve as a reminder of the good that can be accomplished when single-minded and
inspired people unite toward a common goal.
I am honored to pay tribute to tonight’s honorees who embody this essential truth. My
colleague in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Xavier Becerra, has been a leader
in his commitment to advancing the ideals of diversity and unity, especially though his work in
promoting redress for the Japanese Latin Americans interned during World War II. The four surviving
Japanese American Medal of Honor Recipients, Barney F. Hajiro, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hiroshi
Miyamura, and George T. Sakato, truly exemplify the spirit of patriotism in the face of prejudice
for their distinguished military careers. Additionally, the CBS Television Network is deserving of
recognition for its show “Cold Case” which featured an episode based on the Japanese American
internment camp experience, significantly raising the nation’s awareness of the Japanese American
community’s contributions to our nation’s history.
Thank you for the opportunity to extend my greetings to the attendees at tonight’s NJAMF
Awards Dinner. Please accept my sincere and bet wishes for what will undoubtedly be an inspiring
and uplifting event.
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Dear Friends:
Please accept my warmest regards as you gather for the 2009 National Japanese American
Memorial Foundation dinner.
I applaud the supporters of the National Japanese American Foundation for your outstanding
dedication to promote the National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism as a reminder
of what 120,000 Japanese nationals and Japanese Americans experiences and endured while
confined in the internment camps during World War II. It is important for people to learn about
this dark period in our nation’s history so that it will not happen again to any other group regardless of race, religion, or national origin.
I am honored to join all or you in congratulating this evening’s honorees: Barney F. Hajiro,
Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hershey Miyamura, George Sakato, my colleague Congressman
Xavier Becerra, and the CBS television show “Cold Case Files.” They are all to be commended
for their outstanding achievements and service to our country.
Best wishes for a successful and memorable evening.
Sincerely,
Member of Congress
24th District
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General and flag officers in attendance*
United States
Vice Admiral Harry Harris, US Navy
Vice Admiral Tony Less, US Navy, (Ret.)
Vice Admiral Tim Josiah, US Navy, (Ret.)
Lieutenant General Nicholas Kehoe, US Air Force, (Ret.)
Lieutenant General Joseph Peterson, US Army
Major General James Huggins, US Army
Major General Antonio Taguba, US Army, (Ret.)
Brigadier General Gary Ishikawa, Hawaii Air National Guard
Rear Admiral Brian Losey, US Navy
Brigadier General Bert Mizusawa, US Army Reserve
Rear Admiral Frank Thorp, IV, US Navy
Brigadier General Leo Brooks, Jr., US Army, (Ret.)
List of Service Academy Seniors in attendance
United States Coast Guard Academy – LCDR Daniel Pickles, USCG
Cadet 1/C John FitzGerald – Colleyville, TX (Maternal Ibaraki Prefecture)
First Assignment – USCGC Munro (WHEC 724) Kodiak, AK
United States Military Academy (West Point) – Colonel Bryan S. Goda
Cadet Lieutenant Andrew Gilbert Beckwith – Falls Church, VA (Maternal Kumamoto Prefecture)
First Assignment - 82nd Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, NC
Cadet Lieutenant Ashian Midori Izadi – Arcadia, CA (Maternal Kumamoto Prefecture)
First Assignment – 10th Support Group Torii Station, Okinawa, Japan
Cadet Captain Jenna Suenaga Lafferty – Redlands, CA (Maternal Fukuoka Prefecture)
First Assignment – 1st Armor Division Baumholder, Germany
Cadet Lieutenant Terikazu David Onoda – Irvington, NY (Paternal Mie Prefecture)
First Assignment – Flight School Fort Rucker, AL
United States Naval Academy - CDR Tim Disher, USN (Ret.)
Midn 1/C Alexandra Causey – Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
First Assignment – USMC Ground Quantico, VA
Midn 1/C Macedonius Melonas – Orem, Utah (Maternal Wakayama Prefecture)
First Assignment – Flight School Pensacola, FL
Midn 1/C Karl Motoyama – Honolulu, HI
First Assignment – USMC Ground Quantico, VA
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*As of April 1, 2009
To the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
I send my warmest greetings, and yet another apology from
Camp Victory, Baghdad, Iraq. I will be completing 14+ months in
Iraq as you gather to honor this year’s award recipients, as well as
the Special Legacy Award winner.
I am sorry I could not be with you this evening to honor
Japanese American Medal of Honor recipients, Barney F. Hajiro,
the Honorable Daniel K. Inouye, Hershey Miyamura, and George
Sakato for their leadership, valor, sacrifices, commitment to America
and to the Japanese American community. It is most fitting that you
recognize their stories, which highlight their efforts, as well as the
countless other Asian Americans who have helped shape America
for the better.
I would also like to congratulate CBS “Cold Case Files” and
the Honorable Xavier Becerra for their selection as the Chairman’s
Award and Constitutional Rights Award winners.
Congratulations to all the recipients. And thank you NJAMF,
for your continued efforts to educate all on the contributions and
sacrifices of Japanese Americans for their country.
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THE JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL TO
PATRIOTISM DURING WORLD WAR II
The National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II, which stands a few blocks
from the United States Capitol building, was built to commemorate the patriotism and sacrifice of Japanese
Americans during history’s greatest conflict. “Patriotism” is a strong word, and the images and emotions it
evokes are no less powerful: determination, fidelity, courage, sacrifice - and at the root of them all, always an
overriding love of country. It is this love of country and countrymen that was demonstrated by thousands of
Japanese Americans, on the front lines, behind the barbed wire of the camps, and at home in Hawaii.
The Memorial represents three important events: the willful abrogation of the civil rights of an entire
segment of the American population, the heroic and patriotic response of those same Americans, and lastly, a
precedent-setting government apology. As the Presidential Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment
of Civilians concluded, the internment was not caused by military necessity but by racial prejudice, war hysteria,
and the failure of political leadership. The Memorial exists to ensure such events are never forgotten and never
repeated.
The designers of the Memorial created an experience that is not only visually appealing, but has strong
auditory and tactile elements as well. It has won four major awards: The Henry Hering Memorial Medal from the
National Sculpture Society, the Craftsmanship Award for Stone Masonry from the Washington Building Congress,
the Excellence in Construction award from Associated Builders and Contractors of Metropolitan Washington,
and the Excellence for Product and Service Marketing from the International Academy on Communication Arts
& Sciences. The Memorial’s design elements are not only pleasing to the senses - they also tell an important
story and are rich in symbolism.
Upon entering the Memorial, visitors immediately experience the feeling of captivity as they are encircled
by a wall of stone inscribed with the names of the camps in which Japanese Americans were held. In the center of
the Memorial is a sculpture of two large cranes entangled in barbed wire. The cranes, which represent happiness,
good fortune and longevity, are bound in barbed wire to prevent their escape as they can barely see over the
encasement of stone.
The only opening is to a reflecting pool, which represents the flow of life. In the water are five rocks,
representing the five generations of Americans of Japanese ancestry living on the land. The flow of the water and
recirculation symbolizes the meaning of life. On the ledge facing the water are the words of President Ronald
Reagan: “Here we admit a wrong. Here we affirm our commitment as a nation to equal justice under the law.”
The Memorial also bears the names of Japanese Americans lost during World War II. Alongside this roll of
honor is a bell that visitors may ring for each person’s individual reason, but which also serves as an announcement
to the world that they have been to the Memorial and understand the significance of the Memorial.
Construction of the Memorial was financed by contributions from over 20,000 individuals and companies.
It was built on federal land and is now part of the National Park system.
Phase II of the Memorial effort is directed toward raising public awareness of the Memorial and - more
importantly - ensuring generations who follow will learn the important lessons of the Japanese American
experience during World War II.
Phase II is composed of a program of Public Awareness and Understanding wherein the Memorial
Foundation is working to spread the Japanese American story to the American public and to insure the rights of
all Americans are protected. The Smithsonian program, as demonstrated in panel sessions, will be a continuing
education program for all visitors to the Smithsonian. The Foundation has developed an education program
using the National Memorial as a venue to share with the American public the historic significance of the
Japanese American experience during World War II. In addition, NJAMF is participating in professional
development workshops on the Japanese American experience during World War II for teachers in the DC
area. NJAMF is partnering with the Japanese American Veterans Association and the Go For Broke National
Education Center to conduct these workshops and to speak to high school classes. While this Memorial is dedicated to a group of Americans who endured trial and suspicion with dignity
and valor, we believe that this is more than just a story of injustice and persecution. It is an American story with
lessons as applicable today as they were sixty years ago. Most of all, it is a story that must be remembered and
shared, so it shall have not been in vain.
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Visit the
NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL TO
PATRIOTISM DURING WORLD WAR II
Louisiana Avenue and D Street NW • Washington, DC
The Memorial is a national memorial maintained by the National Park Service.
Call (202) 530-0015 to schedule a NJAMF docent to give groups of five (5) or more
persons a guided tour of the Memorial. Tours last approximately one hour.
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National Japanese American
Memorial Foundation
Sixth Annual Awards Dinner
Program Schedule
7:00pm
Welcome and Opening Remarks – Mr. Eric Nishizawa and Mr. David Iwata, Dinner Chairs
Introduction – Ms. Sachi Koto, Mistress of Ceremonies
Presentation of Colors – The Veterans of Foreign Wars Color Guard of the District of Columbia
Pledge of Allegiance – Mr. Terry Shima, 442nd Regimental Combat Team
National Anthem – Dr. Noriko Hunter
Remarks – Dr. Craig Uchida, Chair, National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Remarks by His Excellency Ichiro Fujisaki, Japanese Ambassador to the United States
Introduction of General and Flag Officers and the Class of 2009 Members from the
Military Academies
Dinner
Tribute to Paul Tani and William Mo Marumoto
Presentation of the Award for the Preservation of Constitutional Rights to the
Honorable Xavier Becerra
Introduction: Ms. Rose Ochi
Presentation of the Chairman’s Award to the CBS Television Network
Introduction: Ms. Jane Nishida
Presentation of the Special Recognition Legacy Award to the Japanese American
Medal of Honor Recipients
Daniel K. Inouye – introduction by Lieutenant General Joseph Peterson
George T. Joe Sakato – introduction by Vice Admiral Harry Harris
Barney F. Hajiro – introduction by Brigadier General Bert Mizusawa
Hiroshi ‘Hershey’ Miyamura – introduction by Major General Antonio Taguba, (Ret.)
Special Presentation and Closing Remarks
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National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Chairman’s Award
In the “Cold Case” episode, entitled “Family 8108” which aired on Sunday, December 9,
2007 on the CBS Television Network, the team attempts to solve the 1945 murder of a man
who moved his family to Philadelphia following their release from a Japanese-American
internment camp during World War II.
“Cold Case” stars Kathryn Morris, Danny Pino, John Finn, Jeremy Ratchford, Thom Barry
and Tracie Thoms. It is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer Television in association with:
CBS Paramount Network Television and Warner Bros. Television.
The “Cold Case” executive producers during the season of this episode’s broadcast are
Jerry Bruckheimer, Jonathan Littman, Meredith Stiehm and Veena Sud. The episode’s
writers are Kelleye Garrett and Elizabeth Randall.
Chairman’s Award
Awarded to an individual or organization whose leadership has significantly raised the
nation’s awareness of the Japanese American community’s contributions to the history and
life of the nation, and whose actions have led to the increased recognition of the community’s
intrinsic and vital role in the nation’s continuing legacy and future. Awarded to the CBS
Television Network, for its drama series “Cold Case” which featured as one of its episodes
a story based on the Japanese-American internment camp experience.
Award for Preservation of Constitutional Rights
Awarded to an individual whose contributions to constitutional rights have materially
improved the treatment of, and opportunities made available to all Americans, regardless of
race, ethnicity, religion or gender, and therefore has advanced the complementary principles
of diversity and unity upon which our nation is founded. Awarded to Congressman Xavier
Becerra.
Award For Patriotism
Awarded to an individual whose military or other contributions to the nation’s peace, security
and welfare exemplify the spirit of patriotism in the face of prejudice as embodied in President
Harry S. Truman’s statement to returning Nisei veterans of WWII: “You fought not only the
enemy, but you fought prejudice- and you won.” This year, a Special Recognition Legacy
Award will be presented to the Japanese American Medal of Honor recipients, Senator
Daniel K. Inouye, George T. Sakato, Barney F. Hajiro, and Hiroshi ‘Hershey’ Miyamura.
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National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Special Recognition Legacy Award
The Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can
be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. Generally
presented to its recipients by the President of the United States of America in the name of
Congress, it is often call the Congressional Medal of Honor.
In 1996 Congress directed the Secretary of the Army to conduct a review of all Asian Americans
and Pacific Islanders who were awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in World War II “to
determine whether any such award should be upgraded to the Medal of Honor.” The task of
identifying soldiers who qualified for the review and locating the required official documentation
was given to the Command History Office at the Defense Institute Foreign Language Center,
Presidio of Monterey, California. The team completed their research in September 1998 and
turned their findings over to the US Army’s Military Awards Branch.
On June 21, 2000, President William Clinton awarded the Medal of Honor to 22 Asian-Pacific
Americans. In his remarks, he said, “We recognize them today with our highest military honor,
the Medal of Honor. They risked their lives, above and beyond the call of duty. And in so,
doing, they did more than defend America, in the face of painful prejudice, they helped to define
America at its best. Rarely has a nation been so well-served by a people it has so ill-treated. For
their numbers and length of service, the Japanese Americans of the 442nd Regimental Combat
Team, including the 100th Infantry Battalion, became the most decorated unit in American
military history. By the end of the war, America’s military leaders in Europe all wanted these
men under their command. Their motto was “Go For Broke.” They risked it all to win it all.
So today, America awards 22 of them the Medal of Honor. They risked their lives, on their
own initiative, sometimes even against orders, to take out machine guns, give aid to wounded
soldiers, draw fire, pinpoint the enemy, protect their own. People who can agree on nothing else
fall silent before that kind of courage.”
• Ssgt. Rudolph B. Davila, 7th Infantry for actions on May 28, 1944, at Arlena, Italy
• Pvt. Barney F. Hajiro, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions in October 1944 for
actions at Bruyeres and Biffontaine
• Pvt. Mikio Hasemoto, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions on November 29, 1943 at
Cerasuolo, Italy (Posthumous)
• Pvt. Joe Hayashi, 442nd Regimental Combat Team for actions April 1945 at Tendola, Italy
• Pvt. Shizuya Hayashi, 100th Infantry Battalion (Sep), for actions on November 29, 1943 at
Cerasuolo, Italy
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• 2nd Lt. Daniel K. Inouye, 442nd Infantry, for actions on April 21, 1945 at San Terenzo, Italy
• Tech Sgt. Yeiki Kobashigawa, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions on June 2, 1944, at Lanuvio,
Italy
• SSgt. Robert T. Kuroda, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on October 20, 1944, at
Bruyeres, France (Posthumous)
• Pfc. Kaoru Moto, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions on July 7, 1944, at Castellina, Italy
(Posthumous)
• Pfc. Kiyoshi K. Muranaga, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on June 26, 1944, at
Suvereto, Italy (Posthumous)
• Pvt. Masato Nakae, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions on August 19, 1944, at Pisa, Italy
(Posthumous)
• Pvt. Shinyei Nakamine, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions on June 2, 1944, at La Torreto,
Italy (Posthumous)
• Pfc. William K. Nakamura, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on July 4, 1944, at
Castellina, Italy (Posthumous)
• Pfc. Joe M. Nishimoto, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on November 7, 1944, at
La Houssiere, France (Posthumous)
• Sgt. Allan M. Ohata, 100th Infantry Battalion, for actions in November 1943 at Cerasuolo,
Italy
• Tech Fifth Grade James K. Okubo, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on October
28-29 and November 4, 1944 near Biffontaine, France
• Tech Sgt. Yukio Okutsu, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on April 7, 1945, at
Mount Belvedere, Italy
• Pfc. Frank H. Ono, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on July 4, 1944, at Castellina,
Italy (Posthumous)
• Ssgt. Kazuo Otani, 442nd Infantry, for actions on July 15, 1944, at Pieve di S. Luce, Italy
(Posthumous)
• Pvt. George T. Sakato, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on October 29, 1944, in
Biffontaine, France
• Tech Sgt. Ted T. Tanouye, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, for actions on July 7, 1944 at
Molina A Ventoabbto, Italy (Posthumous)
• Capt Francis B. Wai, 34th Infantry, for actions on October 20, 1944, at Leyte, Philippine
Islands, (Posthumous)
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National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Special Recognition Legacy Award
In recognition of the Congressional Medal of Honor recipients
DANIEL K. INOUYE, 2nd Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Second Lieutenant Daniel K. Inouye distinguished himself by extraordinary
heroism in action on 21 April 1945, in the vicinity of San Terenzo, Italy.
While attacking a defended ridge guarding an important road junction,
Second Lieutenant Inouye skillfully directed his platoon through a hall of
automatic weapon and small arms fire, in a swift enveloping movement
that resulted in the capture of an artillery and mortar post and brought his
men to within 40 yards of the hostile force. Emplaced in bunkers and rock
formations, the enemy halted the advance with crossfire from three machine
guns. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Second Lieutenant
Inouye crawled up the treacherous slope to within five yards of the nearest
machine gun and hurled two grenades, destroying the emplacement. Before
the enemy could retaliate, he stood up and neutralized a second machine gun nest. Although wounded
by a sniper’s bullet, he continued to engage other hostile positions at close range until an exploding
grenade shattered his right arm. Despite the intense pain, he refused evacuation and continued to direct
his platoon until enemy resistance was broken and his were again deployed in defensive positions. In
the attack, 25 enemy soldiers were killed and eight other captured. By his gallant, aggressive tactics
and by his indomitable leadership, Second Lieutenant Inouye enabled his platoon to advance through
formidable resistance, and was instrumental in the capture of the ridge. Second Lieutenant Inouye’s
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military
service and reflect great credit on him his unit, and the United States Army.
GEORGE T. SAKATO, Private, U.S. Army
Private George T. Sakato distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism
in action on 29 October 1944, on Hill 617 in the vicinity of Biffontaine,
France. After his platoon had virtually destroyed two enemy defense
lines, during which he personally killed five enemy soldiers and captured
four, his unit was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. Disregarding the
enemy fire, Private Sakato made a one-man rush that encouraged his
platoon to charge and destroy the enemy strongpoint. While his platoon
was reorganizing, he proved to be the inspiration of his squad in halting a
counter-attack on the left flank during which his squad leader was killed.
Taking charge of the squad, he continued his relentless tactics, using an
enemy rifle and P-38 pistol to stop an organized enemy attack. During
this entire action, he killed 12 and wounded two, personally captured four
and assisted his platoon in taking 34 prisoners. By continuously ignoring
enemy fire, and by his gallant courage and fighting spirit, he turned impending defeat into victory
and helped his platoon complete its mission. Private Sakato’s extraordinary heroism and devotion
to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him,
20 his unit, and the United States Army.
BARNEY F. HAJIRO, Private, U.S. Army
Private Barney F. Hajiro distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism
in action, 19, 22, and 29 October, 1944, in the vicinity of Bruyeres and
Biffontaine, eastern France. Private Hajiro, while acting as a sentry on top
of an embankment on 19 October 1944, in the vicinity of Bruyeres, France,
rendered assistance to allied troops attacking a house 200 yards away by
exposing himself to enemy fire and directing fire at an enemy strong point.
He assisted the unit on his right by firing his automatic rifle, and killing or
wounding two enemy snipers. On 22 October 1944, he and one comrade
took up an outpost security position about 50 yards to the right front of their
platoon, concealed themselves, and ambushed an 18-man, heavily armed
enemy patrol, killing two, wounding one, and taking the remainder as
prisoners. On 29 October 1944, in a wooded area in the vicinity of Biffontaine, France, Private Hajiro
initiated an attack up the slope of a hill referred to as “Suicide Hill” by running forward approximately
100 yards under fire. He then advanced ahead of his comrades abut 10 yards, drawing fire and spotting
camouflaged machine gun nests. He fearlessly met fire with fire and single-handedly destroyed two
machine gun nests and killed two enemy snipers. As a result of Private Hajiro’s heroic actions, the
attack was successful. Private Hajiro’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with
the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit, and the United
States Army.
HIROSHI ‘HERSHEY’ MIYAMURA, Corporal, U.S. Army
Cpl. Miyamura, a member of Company H, distinguished himself by
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty
in action against the enemy. On the night of 24, April, Company H was
occupying a defensive position when the enemy fanatically attacked
threatening to overrun the position. Cpl. Miyamura, a machine gun squad
leader, aware of the imminent danger to his men unhesitatingly jumped
from his shelter wielding his bayonet in close hand-to-hand combat killing
approximately 10 of the enemy. Returning to his position, he administered
first aid to the wounded and directed their evacuation. As another savage
assault hit the line, he manned his machine gun and delivered withering
fire until his ammunition was expended. He ordered the squad to withdraw
while he stayed behind to render the gun inoperative. He then bayoneted his way through infiltrated
enemy soldiers to a second gun emplacement and assisted in its operation. When the intensity
of the attack necessitated the withdrawal of the company Cpl. Miyamura ordered his men to fall
back while he remained to cover their movement. He killed more than 50 of the enemy before his
ammunition was depleted and he was severely wounded. He maintained his magnificent stand
despite his painful wounds, continuing to repel the attack until his position was overrun. When
last seen he was fighting ferociously against an overwhelming number of enemy soldiers. Cpl.
Miyamura’s indomitable heroism and consummate devotion to duty reflect the utmost glory on
himself and uphold the illustrious traditions of the military service.
21
National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Award for Preservation of Constitutional Rights
The Honorable Xavier Becerra
The Award for Constitutional Rights is given to the Honorable
Xavier Becerra for his leadership in promoting redress for the
Japanese Latin Americans interned in the United States during
World War II. He is the author of H.R. 42, the Commission
on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Latin Americans
of Japanese Descent Act. This Commission, if signed into
law, would create a commission to investigate and study the
wartime actions taken by the U.S. government with regard
to Japanese Latin Americans during World War II and make
recommendations to Congress for any appropriate remedies
based on their findings. The 1981 Commission on Wartime
Relocation and Internment of Civilians report led to the Civil
Liberties Act of 1988, which provided an official apology and
financial redress to most of the Japanese Americans who were
subjected to wrongdoing and confined in U.S. internment
camps during World War II. Latin Americans of Japanese
ancestry have not yet experienced the closure they deserve or
obtained the justice to which they are entitled.
First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992, he currently serves as the Vice Chair
of the House Democratic Caucus and is a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means.
He has dedicated himself to promoting issues affecting industries critical to the economic vitality
of the Southern California region. His district is located entirely in the City of Los Angeles.
Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Becerra served one term in the California Legislature as
the representative of the 59th Assembly District in Los Angeles County. He is a former Deputy
Attorney General with the California Department of Justice. The Congressman began his legal
career working in a legal services office representing the mentally ill.
The National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
Invites you to join us next year as we celebrate the
tenth Anniversary of the dedication of the Memorial.
We look forward to honoring
this milestone with you in 2010!
22
Sachi Koto, Mistress of Ceremonies
Following more than 16 years with CNN, Sachi Koto launched a public
relations and video production company – SKC, Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia
in July, 2005.
As a veteran of CNN, Koto served as a news anchor for CNN Headline
News based in the network’s world headquarters in Atlanta. During her
tenure at CNN, Koto anchored for CNN Radio, CNN Airport Network,
CNN International and CNN QuickCast. She also produced, wrote and
anchored for Turner South, Turner Entertainment Group’s entertainment
network dedicated to southern style programming.
Before joining CNN, Koto worked as an anchor for Tokyo’s JCTV (Japan
Cable Television) and for Nippon Hoso Kyoku (NHK) Radio, also in
Tokyo. Previously, she was a reporter for WQXI radio station in Atlanta
from 1974-1975 and for CNN affiliate WAGA-TV in Atlanta from 1975-1977.
Koto has received multiple honors and awards for her reporting and speaking engagements
including – The Women Looking Ahead News Magazine’s 100s List of the Nation’s Most
Powerful and Influential Women’s Award, the SCLC’s Heritage Award in Honor of Coretta Scott
King, The National Star of Asia 2002 Award, “Honorary Texan Award” by Texas Governor
Rick Perry, “Honorary Citizen Award” by Austin, Texas, Mayor Gus Garcia, Honorary Member
of the Japan America Society by Japanese Consul General George Hisaeda, appointed as a
member to the Asian-American Commission for a New Georgia by Georgia Governor Sonny
Perdue, Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage speakers award, Korean American
Association of Greater Atlanta’s speakers award, Japanese American National Museum and The
William Bremen Jewish Heritage Museum speakers award, Asian Pacific American Council of
Georgia Speakers award and the S.M.C.I. Jaycees Appreciation Award.
Koto is a third-generation Japanese American, born and raised in Atlanta. Koto was the first
Japanese on-air talent in the Southeast and the first Asian on-air talent in Atlanta.
A presidential scholar, Koto graduated summa cum laude from Reinhardt College with a
bachelor’s degree in communications. She also earned a diploma in Japanese language and
culture from the Gendai Japanese School in Tokyo.
Koto is a member of the Board of Curators for Delta Airlines, Member of the Atlanta Regional
Commission’s Fifty Forward Steering Committee, Vice Chair of the Japan America Society of
Georgia, Vice Chair of the Atlanta – Fukuoka Sister Cities Commission, General Manager of
JapanFest, board member of the Refugee Family Services, former President of the Japanese
American Citizens League SE Chapter, Vice President of the Asian American Heritage
Foundation, Board member of the Reinhardt College North Fulton Center, Board member of the
Japanese American National Museum, and Committee Chair of the Society of the Who’s Who
in Asian American Communities. Koto is a featured speaker for Premiere Speakers Bureau.
October 7, 2006, Koto released her children’s book on teaching Diversity – Penelope Hates Stew.
23
Awards Dinner Sponsors
The following have contributed $2,500 or more in support of this Awards Dinner:
Diamond Sponsor
The Boeing Company
Gold Sponsor
Funai Corporation, Inc.
Silver Sponsors
CBS Television Network
Raytheon Corporation
Southwest Airlines
Bronze Sponsors
Helen Kawagoe
KPMG LLP
Daphne Kwok/John Nakahata
Norman Mineta
Tomio Moriguchi
Community Based Sponsors
AAGEN
Gordon Aoyagi
David Asaki
Blue Angels Association
CEPEX (Center for Professional Exchange)
JACL-National
JACL- Washington, DC Chapter
Japanese American Veterans Association
24
Ray and Mary Murakami
Jane Nishida
James Nishimura
Eric Nishizawa/Rose Ochi
Craig Uchida
Daphne Kwok/John Nakahata
Lockheed Martin
Jane Nishida
National Council of Asian Pacific Americans
Pathway Strategies/ESI
Sojitz Aerospace America Corporation/Sunrock Institute
The Roberts Group, LLC
Special Thank You to:
Bob Otsuka and The Flower Mart
Uwajimaya, Inc.
Awards Dinner Committee
Eric Nishizawa and David Iwata, Chairs
Dinner Coordinator
Martha Watanabe
Volunteers
Michelle Amano
Shirley Bertoni
Daphne Kwok
Florence Kwok
Noriko Sanefuji
The Roberts Group, LLC
Amy Betor
Samantha Gibson Aisha Brown Amy Reuter
Cathy Cook Jane Reynolds
Capital Hilton Hotel
Michael Schneider
Director of Catering
Photographer Events Coordinator
Joe Shymanski Micheline Mendelsohn
Videographer
Matt Reilly
25
26
George Sakato, and Barney Hajiro.
27
28
Flowers for the
Gala Awards Dinner
made available by
Bob Otsuka
San Francisco Flower Mart
640 Brannan Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
www.sfflmart.com
29
Congratulations to NJAMF
on the
2009 Annual Awards Gala
from all of the
“GO FOR BROKERS”
for their role as charter members of the Memorial to Patriotism
Harry F. Abe, M.D.
30
Col. Jimmie Kanaya (Ret.)
Congratulates
Congratulates
Memorial
Award
Winners
MemorialFoundation
Foundation Award
Winners
The CBS
CBS Television
Television Network
The
Network
The Japanese
Japanese American
American Medal
Medal of
The
of Honor
Honor Recipients
Recipients
The
Honorable
Xavier
Becerra
The Honorable
Becerra
Joins the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
in celebrating the achievements of
The CBS Television Network
The Japanese American Medal of Honor Recipients
Congressman Xavier Becerra
Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program
Telephone/202.633.2690 Fax/202.633.2699
www.apa.si.edu
31
The following organizations and individuals are recognized for their work with NJAMF:
The Smithsonian Institute
Dr. Franklin Odo, Director, APA Program
Ms. Noriko Sanefuji, APA Program
Japanese American Veterans Association
Terry Shima, JAVA Executive Director
Japanese American Citizens League, Washington, DC Chapter
The Roberts Group, LLC
Mr. Glenn Roberts
Ms. Amy Betor
Ms. Aisha Brown
Ms. Cathy Cook
Ms. Susan Fuller
Ms. Ellen Gardner
Ms. Katarina Lasu
Ms. Samantha Gibson
Ms. Amy Reuter
Ms. Jane Reynolds
Ms. Robin Wheeler
Hill & Knowlton, Inc.
Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis, LLP
Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk Committee
Karen Matsuoka, Chair
Stanley Y. Fujii
Erick Ishii
John Kornacki
Yasue Redden
Ruth Wong
Michelle Amano
Beth Fujishige
Zena Itani
Arlene Minami
Termy Shima
Gerald Yamada
David Yao
Bridget Dooling
Fumie Yokota Griego
Jean Kariya
Barbara Nekoba
Craig Uchida
Fumi Yamamoto
NJAMF Office Volunteers
Michelle Amano
Meiko Kosobayashi
Arlene Minami
Shirley Bertoni
Hannah Kim
Nancy Yamada
Program Book Credits
32
Cover Design
Mr. J. R. Moto Korus Creative
Layout and Ad Design
Ms. Amy Betor
The Roberts Group, LLC
THE NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
Honorary Board
Congressman Neil Abercrombie
Senator Daniel Akaka
George Ariyoshi, Esq.
Louis Caldera
Ann Curry
Robert J. Dole, Esq.
Chiyoko Doris Aiso Hoshide
Senator Daniel K. Inouye
Mike Lowry
Etsu Mineta Masaoka
H. Hershey Miyamura
Walter Mondale, Esq.
Adlai E. Stevenson, Esq.
Matsuo (Matsy) Takabuki, Esq.
Kristi Yamaguchi
Board of Directors
Chairs Emeritus
Rear Adm. Melvin H. Chiogioji (Ret.)
Warren Minami, Ph.D.
Senior Advisor
First Vice Chair
Norman Y. Mineta
Treasurer
David Asaki, Esq.*
Harry Abe, M.D.
Secretary
Chairman of the Board
Sidney Mukai*
Craig Uchida, Ph.D.*
Directors
Gordon A. Aoyagi
Eric K. Federing
John L. Fugh, Esq.
Jose Keichi Fuentes
Tatsuya T. Hofmann
S. Phil Ishio
David Iwata
Helen S. Kawagoe.*
Daphne Kwok*
Celso Mataac
Daniel P. Matthews
Tomio Moriguchi
Raymond S. Murakami, D.D.S.
Jane T. Nishida, Esq.*
James Y. Nishimura
Eric Y. Nishizawa, Esq.
Rose Ochi, Esq.
Sumiye Okubo
Peter M. Suzuki, Esq.
John Tagami
James Zogby, Ph.D.
General Counsel
The Roberts Group, LLC
John T. Nakahata, Esq.
* Executive Committee
Glenn Roberts, President
Aisha Brown, TRG Coordinator
Crane sculpture by Nina Akamu
NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL Foundation
1620 I Street NW, Suite 925 • Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 530-0015
Fax: (202) 530-0016
www.njamf.com
The National Japanese American
Memorial Foundation
Awards dinner gala
A celebration of patriotism and constitutional rights
April 17, 2009