Japanese American Veterans Association

e-Advocate

Vol. 4, No. 56, January 1, 2023

President's Message

JAVA President Gerald Yamada. Photo: Shane Sato. 

On behalf of the Executive Council, I wish all JAVA Members, Friends, and supporters a Very Happy New Year!!! We had a very successful year in 2022 and look forward to bringing you an even more meaningful schedule of events in 2023. 

To start the year, we will have a virtual annual general membership meeting on February 4th. We will review 2022 and preview 2023. Committee Chairs and the Executive Director will report on their activities. Vice President Howard High will lead the discussion on developing JAVA’s strategic plan. We are asking for your support to pass a by-law amendment on membership composition. 

As we leave 2022, I ask that we pause and remember the two JAVA Honorary Chairs that we lost last year – Norman Mineta and Hiroshi "Hershey" Miyamura. Both made significant contributions to America and were strong supporters of JAVA and its mission. We will miss both of them. 

Last, but most importantly, I want to thank the Members of the Executive Council, Executive Director Neet Ford, Committee Chairs, and all the JAVA Members and Friends who supported our programs. Thank you for your help, and we look forward to your participation in JAVA programs in the coming year.  

A Celebration for the Life of

Hiroshi "Hershey" Miyamura

Celebration of Life Program for Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura. Image: Courtesy of Ken Hayashi. 

Respectfully submitted by Colleen and Ken Hayashi

Our arrival in Gallup, after a 10-hour drive, was evident by the sign on a Highway overpass that read, “Miyamura Dr.” The first indication of how the town of Gallup feels about their native son. An offramp later we exited on Historic Route 66 to check in to the Comfort Suites Inn, managed by Hershey’s dear friend Ken Reige. The lobby and conference room of the hotel are like a museum dedicated to the Medal of Honor, the Navajo Code Talkers, and all who served. Hershey’s family and most of the out-of-town guests, including six Medal of Honor recipients, were staying there. The next several hours were spent mingling and sharing memories of Hershey. Also among the guests were Gene Ramos, who was in Joe Annello’s squad and Lee McKinney, who was with Hershey for most of the 28 months in the prisoner-of-war camp. 

On 12/10/22, a cold, clear Saturday morning welcomed several hundred to the First United Methodist Church to celebrate Hershey’s life. Son, Pat, and grandchildren Marisa Regan, Megan Miyamura, and Ian Miyamura focused on Hershey as a man, father, and grandfather. Pat remembered his life lesson from Hershey when Pat was an errant teenager; “Do what you promise to do.”  Hershey certainly lived that his entire life.

A 100+ car procession then drove the eight miles on Historic highway 66 to the cemetery. The procession was escorted by the local and state police as well as the fire department. Several local citizens stood along the way and waved flags and saluted.  At the cemetery entrance was the Stars and Stripes hanging from the top of an extended fire truck ladder with firefighters saluting and many more local citizens paying their respects.      

The service at the cemetery was a tribute to Hershey, the soldier. The Medal of Honor service was conducted impressively by Air Force Major Craig Nakagawa and the Honor Guard Team from the New Mexico National Guard and members of the 3rd Infantry Division. It featured a helicopter flyover and a 21- gun salute. The focal point and most touching portion of the service was the folding of the flag and presentation to the family. The flag was presented by Major General Charles Costanza, Commanding General of the 3rd Infantry Division, Hershey’s unit in Korea. There was not a dry eye in the audience as he concluded the flag presentation narrative with “in appreciation for your loved one’s honorable and faithful service.” Family members including Joan Annello, widow of his best friend and fellow heavy weapons squad leader, then laid roses on the casket. They were followed by six Medal of Honor recipients, Lt Colonel William Swenson, Major Drew Dix, Major James Taylor, Command Sgt Major Robert Patterson, Mst Sgt Leroy Petry, and Spec 4 John Baca, who placed their challenge coins to accompany their brother. Together with the other guests, we said our final goodbye to a great man and dear friend by placing a handful of dirt in his final resting place. 

We conclude with the words of Major Nakagawa: “Let the world give ear – a warrior has fallen.”

A reception at Miyamura High School allowed for meeting other of Hershey’s friends and sharing of more Hershey stories.  The most common theme was the feeling of some trepidation in first meeting a hero followed by Hershey’s gracious manner creating a lifelong friendship. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Terry in 2014 and is survived by his sons Mike (Marianne) Miyamura, Pat (Jill) Miyamura his daughter Kelly (Clay) Hildahl, sisters Michiko Yoshida, Suzi Tashiro, Shige Sasaki, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

Veterans Memorial Court Alliance's Tribute to 

Hiroshi "Hershey" Miyamura

“Welcome” address Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura recorded for the Korean War Veterans Tribute and Speaker Forum. Image: Screenshot.

Veterans Memorial Court Alliance mourns the passing of Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura on November 29, 2022 at the age of 97.  As a Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War, he was a true national hero, an icon of the Japanese American Community and an inspiration to all.  He wore the Medal of Honor with grace and dignity for almost 70 years to honor his country and his comrades in arms.  He will be dearly missed.

Ken Hayashi

President

Veterans Memorial Court Alliance

Here is the link to the video of the “Welcome” address Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura recorded for the Korean War Veterans Tribute and Speaker Forum event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCwh5FtXtbs&t=3s.

Salt Lake City Dedicates Nisei Veteran Plaque

A plaque dedicated to Utah Japanese American WWII Nisei Soldiers in 2022. Photo: The Honorable Jani Iwamoto, Utah State Senator.

The Honorable Jani Iwamoto, Utah State Senator, by way of JAVA member Jeff Morita, shared the above image of a Nisei Veteran plaque that was dedicated on November 6, 2022, in the Japantown Garden in Salt Lake City, UT. Senator Iwamoto whose late father, Nobuo Iwamoto, was in the MIS, was instrumental in the development efforts of the plaque and in the dedication ceremony. Iwamoto also shared an article she wrote about the Nisei Veterans plaque for The Herald Newsletter, Japanese Church of Christ, as well as a link to an article discussing the redevelopment of Japantown in Salt Lake City.


Nisei Veterans Plaque Ceremony

Nisei Veterans Plaque in Japantown Garden, Salt Lake City, UT. Photo: Courtesy of The Honorable Jani Iwamoto. 

Reprinted from The Herald Newsletter, Japanese Church of Christ

December 2022

Submitted by Jani Iwamoto

November 6, 2022, was definitely one of the most special days of my life. As background, I had met with Raymond Uno, “Judge”, and Jeanette Misaka (two of my heroes) over various funds including a fund Raymond donated to the Japanese Church of Christ on behalf of his parents. It was Judge’s wish that a plaque be done for the garden in Japantown, which he has been involved with from the beginning. It is so important to him to honor our Nisei soldiers- with their names visible and forever remembered.

Following the ceremony in Washington, DC on November 2, 2011, we had a Utah congressional gold medal ceremony, as well as a ceremony to place a plaque at Camp Williams. Terry Schow, the long-time executive director of the Utah Department of Veterans Affairs, help make this happen and we were so honored to have him with us that day.

Making sure all the names were included was a monumental task - our CGM team worked on it years ago; but with the help of Lorraine Crouse, we perused through obituaries, books and with other help from Rosalyn Tonai (NJAHS), Christine Sato Yamasaki and proofing skills of Karen Okawa and Jeanette Misaka, we hope it is as accurate as possible. Thank you to Paul Seo, Creative Awards for his expertise and patience!

Thank you to Salt Lake County and SMG that runs the Salt Palace Convention Center for their help to continue this garden in the heart of Japantown, and for rushing to complete the structure that houses our plaque. Specifically, thank you to general manager Dan Hayes, manager Bart Allen, Detlef Preuer (Crafts Manager), Shawn Warfield, Johnny Parks, Mike Mitchell, and Dustin Redman!

Thank you to Judge Uno for funding this plaque in celebration on behalf and in honor of his parents, the late Clarence Hachiro Uno and Osako Teraoka Uno. Also thank you to the late Mitsugi Murakami Kasai and the JCC for their contributions.

Prayers were given by Pastor Daniel Haas (JCC), Rev. Dr. Carmela Javellana-Hirano (SL Buddhist Temple), and Matt Garriott, Bishopric Second Counselor - Japanese Dai Ichi Ward.

The bento boxes were delicious and we have to thank Japan Sage Market - Junko and her daughter April for working on a Sunday - and for donation of manju.

Janice Oike made fresh manju for everyone that morning - it was delicious! Julee Mori and her crew made patriotic centerpieces. Special was the display photos of our Nisei soldiers - thank you to Lorraine Crouse for her tireless work - thank you to Special Collections, J Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah for loaning the Japanese American Veterans of World War II Exhibit that is part of the Mitsugi Kasai Memorial Japanese American Archive and was curated by Lorraine Crouse for the local Congressional Gold Medal event in 2011. Thank you also to Barbara Yamada and the Utah Ski and Snow Sports Archive for loaning the exhibit panels and Dan Crouse for transporting and setting up the veterans’ exhibit and for picking up all the bento lunches.

We were fortunate to have videographer Kiyoshi Nagahama of Digital Bytes - he was able to interview Casey Kunimura, our 96-year-old veteran from the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, who also did the unveiling - along with Judge, and other families of veterans. We also watched a video clip from NVN - and all eyes were on the videos done for our Utah CGM ceremony of the DC and Utah CGM ceremonies and which showed photos of our Utah Veterans, to music of those days.

We also had plaques inside the church installed for for Judge’s parents “In remembrance for their devotion, service, and contributions to the Japanese Church of Christ”; Mitsugi Murakami Kasai who served in the US military from 1946 to 1973, and was an advocate for the rights of Japanese Americans and their place in history; to Eunice Kato’s parents Rev. Paul & Nobuko Kato, who faithfully served the church from 1966 to 1975 - for the JCC Cross at the JCC‘s 100th anniversary celebration which was dedicated in their loving memory; and on the pew in the back of the church, a small plaque in loving memory of Franklin “Frankie“ Imai who was a faithful member and brightened our lives - and who died from COVID during the early days.

What is really amazing about this event is that it came together in less than two weeks. We were going to wait until January or March to have a big event but decided to have it on this Veteran’s Sunday - and so glad we did. Thanks to all those who came, and mostly to our veterans! What an honor!!!❤

[EdNote: Judge Uno is a JAVA member, and when CWO4 Mitsugi Kasai, also a JAVA member, passed away, Judge Uno, as the Kasai estate administrator established the CWO4 Mitsugi Kasai Scholarship JAVA Memorial Scholarship, which has benefited many deserving students.]

Revitalizing Japantown Street in Salt Lake City, UT


Read about the restoration of Japantown in Salt Lake City, Utah in the University of Utah Magazine, "Revitalizing Japantown Street," Summer 2022:

https://magazine.utah.edu/issues/summer-2022/restoring-historic-japantown/


[EdNote: Many thanks to Jeff Morita for passing along the news of the Nisei Veterans Plaque in Salt Lake City, UT and for securing permission for JAVA to share Senator Iwamoto's article and photos. 


Japanese American Mural at Camp Ritchie, MD


Mural of Japanese Americans at Fort Ritchie, MD. Photo: Landon Grove, Director and Curator of the Fort Ritchie Museum.

Many thanks to all the JAVA members and friends who shared the December 26, 2022, Baltimore Sun article by Ngan Ho that was picked up by the online magazine Military.com. JAVA had learned about the mural in early December from Bernie Lubran, the son of a "Ritchie Boy," who is working on an effort to have the Ritchie Boys awarded a Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their outstanding intelligence contributions, dedication, and service during World War II. Mr. Lubran briefed JAVA on the development plans at Fort Ritchie and the establishment of the Fort Ritchie Museum. As noted in the Baltimore Sun article, Fort Ritchie was used as a POW Camp and an intelligence-gathering operation in WWII. The 20,000 soldiers at Fort Ritchie used their language skills to decode documents and interrogate prisoners. Along with 500 Japanese Americans, there were 2,000 Austrian and German-born refugee soldiers at Fort Ritchie.


Baltimore Sun/Military.com article about the JA Mural at Fort Ritchie:

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/12/26/japanese-american-nisei-soldiers-mural-uncovered-former-army-base.html


Ritchie Boys of WWII Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/rbofwwii/photos/a.684497624905495/3335546756467222/?type=3

Norman Y. Mineta USPS Forever Stamp Campaign

The Honorable Norman Y. Mineta. Photo: U.S. Department of Transportation.

Former Mineta press secretary, Eric Federing, who spoke at JAVA's fall luncheon, has launched a grassroots campaign to have the U.S. Postal Service honor Norman Y. Mineta with a Forever Stamp. In Eric's words, " [a]ll this involves is writing a letter and mailing it - and sharing the notion to whomever you believe might be interested. Totally grassroots. No fundraising. No chatrooms. No online petitions. No centerpoint. Success will be up to us all, one personal appeal at a time."

Eric reports that he has already had a positive response from the USPS and encourages all to visit the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee website (https://about.usps.com/who/csac/#overview) and write each member letter. He believes that personal letters are best and should explain "why Norm merits a stamp to honor both a great American and the educational value of postage stamps about the American tapestry of peoples and individual contributions to the country over a lifetime." Additional information about the selection criteria can be found on the Citizen Stamp Advisory website.

Enthusiastic Individuals should send a letter of support to each of the 11 committee members at:  


Stamp Development

Attn: Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee
475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 3300
Washington, DC 20260-3501

 Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee

  • Gail Anderson
  • Peter Argentine
  • B. J. Bueno, Chair
  • Dr. Kevin Butterfield
  • Ivan Cash
  • Spencer Crew
  • Dr. Cheryl R. Ganz
  • Mike Harrity
  • Dr. Joseph L. Kelley
  • Roger R. Ream
  • Harry Rinker


Thank you Eric! 

[EdNote: The Federing effort is distinct from the "Stamp Our Story" campaign for the Go For Broke Stamp led by Fusa Takahashi, Chiz Ohira, Aiko King, and Wayne Osako.]

Even More Creations From Philatelist Pete Sarmiento!

Pete Sarimento's commemorative envelopes featuring Gila River, Heart Mountain, and Tule Lake War Relocation Centers. 

Master philatelist and JAVA member Pedro ‘Pete’ Sarmiento has added to his amazing oeuvre of historical envelopes with area postal cancellations. He has been busy creating envelopes from Gila River War Relocation Center, Heart Mountain War Relocation Center, and Tule Lake War Relocation Center. He also shared his "In Memoriam to Norman Y. Mineta" and First Day of Issue "Go For Broke" stamp envelopes.

Thank you Pete!!!

Pete Sarimento's commemorative envelopes featuring "In Memoriam to Norman Y. Mineta" and First Day of Issue "Go For Broke" stamp envelopes.

Newly Inducted French Chevaliers (Knights)

Group photograph of Aramaki and Hayakawa family members, and Republic of France Diplomatic Members in the Gold Room, Utah State Capitol. Photograph:  Courtesy of Jeri (Freedman) Aramaki.

Jeff Morita (Hawaii) — On December 12, 2022, a historic ceremony between longtime friends and allies took place in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Two World War II Nisei military veterans of the 100th Infantry Battalion and 442nd Regimental Combat Team were conferred French Chevalier (Knight) status.  Mr. Philippe Étienne, France's Ambassador to the United States of America presented family members with the Chevalier Medal.  Also in attendance was Mr. Frédéric Jung, Consul General of France in San Francisco, and diplomatic members.  Utah State Senator Jani Iwamoto was instrumental in coordinating the beautiful venue in the Gold Room of the Utah State Capitol, and the presentation of individual Utah State Senate Recognition Certificates for both Nisei military veterans.


Hiroshi “Hersh” Aramaki

Then PFC Aramaki in front of the jeep assigned to drive Captain Edwin Robert Shorey, Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 442nd RCT. Photograph (from publication): Close Support - A History of the Cannon Company of the 442d Regimental Combat Team.

Hiroshi “Hersh” Aramaki. Photograph: Courtesy of Mr. Aramaki's daughter, Jeri (Freedman) Aramaki.

Hiroshi “Hersh” Aramaki

Mr. Hiroshi Aramaki was born on December 15, 1924 in Price, Utah.  He is a second-generation American of Japanese Ancestry (AJA), or "Nisei" born to Asajiro and Yasu (Kinoshita) Aramaki who immigrated from Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan to the United States, and settled in the State of Utah in 1905 and 1916 respectively.  Mr. and Mrs. Aramaki started a wholesale ice cream and soda bottling business; and a vegetable farm to sell produce to local stores.  In addition, Mr. Aramaki worked in the coal mines of Price.  Mrs. Aramaki co-worked their businesses and was a loving mother and homemaker.  Hersh Aramaki is the fifth of seven siblings; son Saige (also proudly served in the Military Intelligence Service [MIS] in the Pacific Theater of Operation during World War II); daughter Shizuko; son Masao; son Shigeru; Hiroshi; daughter Bea, and son Junji.  Hersh graduated from Carbon High School in 1943, and dutifully registered for the U.S. World War II draft on February 16, 1943.  He was inducted into the U.S. Army on June 8, 1943, and received infantry basic combat arms training at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. 

Aramaki was initially assigned to D "Dog" Company, 100th Infantry Battalion (IB), and later transferred to the Cannon Company, 442nd Infantry Regiment (AKA:  Regimental Combat Team).  By World War II end Aramaki held the rank of Private First Class (PFC) and served heroically and honorably in the Rome-Arno — Northern Apennines — (France) Rhineland-Vosges and Rhineland-Maritime Alps — and Po Valley Campaigns.  Aramaki's duties entailed jeep driver for Captain Edwin Robert Shorey, Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 442nd RCT.  A crucial and deep position of responsibility to transport and ensure the safety of the senior officer of the unit from enemy fire and adverse weather conditions.  This enabled the effective command and control of the Cannon Company to support the infantry units of the 100th/442nd RCT.  On April 10, 1945, during the Po Valley Campaign, Aramaki became a combat casualty.  While transporting Captain Shorey on a reconnaissance mission, Aramaki was combat wounded by enemy artillery shrapnel in the left triceps, left torso, and back.  He was medically evacuated to the 32nd Field Hospital, Caserta, Italy for life-saving medical treatment.  A fellow Nisei and friend standing next to him was killed in action (KIA).  The seriousness of the combat wound abruptly ended PFC Aramaki's contributions to World War II. 

For his honorable service, Aramaki received the Bronze Star Medal with a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (signifying a 2nd award) — Purple Heart Medal — Army Good Conduct Medal — American Campaign Medal — European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four (4) Bronze Campaign Stars — World War II Victory Medal — and Expert Marksman Badge with Rifle bar.  On September 4, 1945 PFC Aramaki was medically and honorably discharged from U.S. Army at Camp Lockett, California. 

Mr. Aramaki returned to his roots and attended body and fender school in Salt Lake City (SLC), UT, a program provided by the U.S. Army, and employed at an automobile body repair shop in SLC.  In 1960, Aramaki worked at Hydroswift Boats, SLC, laid fiberglass and built boats.  He also worked nights at Uptown Service Station, SLC (owner Tats Masuda) for many years and undertook mechanical work on cars.  In June 1962, Mr. Hiroshi Aramaki married the former Mary (Sakashita).  From 1972 to 1992, Mr. Aramaki was recruited by the owner of a new boat manufacturing company, Starfire Industries, SLC, and designed and built mock-ups for their line of power boats until they closed in 1992.  Aramaki's training background and knowledge in auto body helped in the design and building of Starfire Boats.  Starfire Industries built one of the very finest boats on the commercial market, and Aramaki was very proud of his work.  1992 to 1997, employed by Aerotrans Corp, Springville, UT, and North Salt Lake, UT.  Built various composite and fiberglass parts for monorails, people movers, and eventually personal watercrafts.  Aramaki was excited to be a team member that built the monorail for the J. Paul Getty Museum. 

Hersh enjoyed boating, water skiing and fishing on all of the lakes in Utah.  Long weekend fishing trips to Lake Naughton in Kemmerer, WY were frequent.  He also loved playing the card game “Hana” with friends and going "out west" to Wendover. In his early years, he was known as "Herc", short for Hercules, a name he acquired for being the arm wrestling champ in Salt Lake's Japantown.  Even into his later years, he would still accept an arm wrestling challenge from his grandkids. 

For the past forty years, he has been known as "Grumpy", a nickname affectionately given to him by his grandson while they were at Disneyland.  He was, however, far from being Grumpy, always quick to smile and laugh, and had a great sense of humor.  Hersh was hardworking, strong, and tough, yet humble, patient, and kind. His favorite hobby was being surrounded by the love and laughter of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Nothing brought him more joy than being with his family.  In 2011, Hersh traveled with his family to Washington, D.C. to commemorate the “Nisei Soldiers of World War II” United States Congressional Gold Medal. 

Although Hersh fully retired in 1997, from 2000 to March 2020 (pre-COVID-19) to keep busy Aramaki worked for son Dale, at the family's Uptown Service Station purchased by Dale in 1981.  Hersh would go in every morning at 5:30 AM to prepare for the day's work.  Once the shop opened Hersh would cashier for a few hours and return home by 10 AM.  Hersh enjoyed helping out Dale and made some great friendships.  Many of the loyal customers go in just to visit with Hersh. However, due to the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic, and as a senior citizen in the high-risk category, the family decided Mr. Aramaki refrain from returning to work. 

Mr. and Mrs. Hiroshi Aramaki have three adult children; Craig (Tina), Dale, and Jeri (Gary); five grandchildren, Daniel, Ryan, Kristine, Matthew and Kurtis; and two great-grandchildren.  On July 30, 2021 Mary (92) preceded Hersh in death.  Less than a year later on April 8, 2022 at the age of 97, Hiroshi “Hersh” Aramaki joined Mary in eternity.

Kayo Kyonosuke Hayakawa

Kayo Kyonosuke Hayakawa. Photograph: Courtesy of Mr. Hayakawa's niece, Jeri (Freedman) Aramaki.


Kayo Kyonosuke Hayakawa. Photograph: Courtesy of Mr. Hayakawa's niece, Jeri (Freedman) Aramaki.

Kayo Kyonosuke Hayakawa

Born on February 14, 1922 in Helper, Utah, Mr. Kayo Kyonosuke Hayakawa is a second generation American of Japanese Ancestry (AJA), or "Nisei" born to Utaka and Yoneko (Kidosaki) Hayakawa who immigrated from Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan to the United States and settled in Utah (UT) in 1907 and 1920 respectively.  Utaka worked in the UT coal mines, and Yoneko ran a pool hall.  As such, the combined household income was very low.  Kayo was the sole child of Utaka and Yoneko and childhood memories encompassed a strict household as both parents worked 14-hours a day.  When coal ran low in the mines, the family moved with the mining camp to another location.  Kayo recalled moving four times and the final move to Sweets, UT.
Racial tensions in Utah were high, and Japanese were often called "Japs".  Kayo recalled having many fights when growing up.  Circa 1939, Utaka was recruited by a Japanese friend to return to Japan and help manufacture whiskey.  The last Kayo heard, his father regrettably died from blood poisoning. 

In 1941, Kayo graduated from Carbon High School, and World War II started.  Coal mining had picked up and he worked for Standard Coal Incorporated in Standardville, Carbon, UT.  Yoneko desired Kayo to continue with his education; however, Kayo wanted a car - more independence.  On June 30, 1942, Kayo dutifully registered for the U.S. military draft; however, was classified as 4C 'enemy alien.'  In 1943, he enrolled in the Latter-Day Saints (LDS) business college and spent 1x semester in Salt Lake City, UT.  Kayo recalled about 20x Japanese Americans enrolled in college classes; "the Mormons were good, nice to us." 

Then, the U.S. Government reclassified all Nisei 1A (eligible for military service).  Kayo heard President Franklin Delano Roosevelt make a declaration of war on the radio.  Kayo was drafted into the U.S. Army at Fort Douglas, UT, and was not too happy because he was having a good time.  Most Nisei draftees came from Idaho, and the War Relocation Authority (WRA) Relocation 'Concentration' Camp in Topaz.  Hayakawa entered military service later, and recalled wounded Nisei veterans of the 100th Infantry Battalion sent to the Ogden Hospital in Utah for medical treatment and physical therapy.  Basic training Noncommissioned Officers (NCOs) were from the U.S. mainland, and most of the Hawaiians had already shipped over to the European Theater of Operation (ETO).  Hayakawa trained with the 171th Infantry Battalion, at Camp Shelby, MS.  The 171th was charged with training replacements for the 100th/442nd Infantry Regiment (AKA:  Regimental Combat Team); a 13-week basic training regimen, then shipped overseas.  Active in sports during his school years, Hayakawa was in good physical shape.  He recalled many, many days consumed with hikes and road marches all with weapons, full backpack and equipment, and the ever-present chiggers (like a flea) bites.  Scratching off the chigger only left the head imbedded in the persons flesh and created many cases of infection.  A good dose of insect spray helped keep the chiggers at bay.  The World War II infantryman's main weapon, the M1 Garand Rifle was heavier than the .22 caliber Hayakawa used to hunt with.  During hikes/marches Hayakawa recalled the inability to walk straight, "wobbled a little bit" so he was relegated to the back of the column.  However, the Caucasian Lieutenant a little over 6 feet tall leading the column took long strides; "we had to run like hell from the back to keep up, especially if you were two platoons back" (roughly 80x men).  One fellow Nisei, a sergeant and a good friend he had known before the war, transferred Hayakawa to Headquarters and Headquarters, where he trained in anti-tank gunnery.  During basic training Hayakawa and his Nisei friends heard news of the 100th Infantry Battalion already overseas and in combat, "Japanese blood in them".  "Yamato-damashii" (phonetic for 'tamashii') or in English the 'Japanese Fighting Spirit' also known as "Yamato-gokoro" (phonetic for 'kokoro') or 'Japanese Heart and Mind'.  These terms were readily associated with those in the 100th because of their staunch unwavering will to sacrifice and honorably serve their home of birth, the United States of America. 

On January 23, 1945 Hayakawa embarked on a troop transport ship from Camp Shanks in upper New Jersey.  Many U.S. service members sailed away from the U.S. mainland knowing it would be the last time for some.  Hayakawa emotionally recalled the sight of the Statue of Liberty a gift from the people of France whom they were now enroute on a mission to help liberate from years of terror and oppression.  After a couple days on the ocean, Hayakawa and other Nisei soldiers woke up one morning and went up and outside to the main deck.  He was amazed "no matter which way you looked" at what appeared to be thousands of ships of all types moving in the same direction across the ocean.  Hayakawa good naturedly was glad for the many ships, "we did not have to worry about (German) submarines".  After a two-week zigzagging anti-submarine convoy across the Atlantic Ocean, Hayakawa entered the European Theater of Operations (ETO) and arrived in England.  No one was allowed off the transport ship and on February 9, 1945, Hayakawa arrived at the Port of Marseille, France to add his personal contribution to defeat the Germans and help liberate France in World War II. 

Hayakawa served in the (France) Rhineland-Maritime Alps — Northern Apennines — and Po Valley Campaigns until World War II in Europe ended.  Upon arrival in Marseille, Hayakawa was assigned as a replacement infantry assault rifleman to A "Able" Company, 100th IB during the Rhineland-Maritime Alps Campaign.  Through March 21, 1945, Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd patrolled an 18-mile stretch from the Mediterranean Coast northward into the French Maritime Alps with the mission to protect and guard against potential enemy breakthrough along the southern Coast of France (including Briel, Cannes, Contes, L'Escarène, Le Vignal, Menton, Monaco, Monte Carlo, Moulinet, Nice, Peïra Cava, and Sospel).  Around Menton, Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd also protected the French pass at Col de Braus that encompassed a strategic road running from the city of Nice to Italy.  Hayakawa recalled manning observation posts in the mountains often targeted by German mortar and artillery.  Hayakawa also went on combat reconnaissance patrols to determine the strength, composition, and location of the enemy.  In March, Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd were secretly transported by sea back to Italy to help crack the German Gothic Line.  In as little as 30 minutes, Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd broke through the Gothic Line that had stalemated the Allied forces for 5x previous months.  As Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd entered the vast Po Valley, the Germans were on the run.  On an unrecalled date, an artillery shell exploded nearby and bounced Hayakawa out of his foxhole. He received a semi-concussion and hurt his stomach, and sent to the hospital in Livorno. 

Hayakawa and the 100th/442nd (less the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion) was cited with the Distinguished Unit Badge/Citatioin (now known as the Presidential Unit Citation) for outstanding accomplishment in combat for the period 5 to 14 April 1945 in the vicinity of Serravezza, Carrara, and Fosdinovo, Italy.  On May 8, 1945, the 100th/442nd was located in Northern Italy close to the Swiss border when World War II in Europe ended (VE-Day).  Hayakawa rejoined his unit near Lake Como (Lago di Como) a two-day truck ride north of Milan.  However, he came down with an intestinal ailment and was again sent back to the field hospital in Livorno.  Released from the hospital, Hayakawa was sent back to his unit already guarding German prisoner of war (POW).  Hayakawa requested schooling and spent two months taking college courses.  He was then reenlisted in the U.S. Army with the intent of getting sent to Japan, his father was there; however, Hayakawa was sent back to the U.S mainland.  Hayakawa was assigned to the U.S. 6th Army at the Presidio of San Francisco.  Lieutenant General Joseph W. Stilwell, Commanding General at the time informed Hayakawa he could not send him to Japan because he would be returned in as little as two months.  Instead, Stilwell recommended Hayakawa get out of the Army.  Hayakawa now a Technician Fifth Class, took the advice to heart and on December 20, 1946 received an honorable discharge at Separation Point, Presidio of San Francisco, California. 

On January 30, 1946, Hayakawa married the former Mitsuko Jeannette Sakashita in Salt Lake City, UT, and moved to San Francisco where Hayakawa attended Beauty College under the "GI Bill".  Jeannette also attended beauty school and both owned and co-operated the 'Hayakawa Salon of Beauty' in San Francisco for 38 years, and was a favorite among residents near and far in California.  In the late 1940s, many Americans of Japanese Ancestry (AJA) in the Bay Area started bowling.  However, Nikkei bowlers were not allowed to form leagues sanctioned by the American Bowling Congress (ABC), or the Women's International Bowling Congress (WIBC).  Through Jeannette and Kayo’s efforts they helped popularize bowling in the Bay Area.  Assisted by Mr. Henry Golobic and son-Rex, they welcomed the AJA bowlers at the “Downtown Bowl”, and Kayo helped form a non-sanctioned league with bowlers from the East Bay and Peninsula areas.  Circa 1949, Henry Golobic secured official sanction from the ABC for the Nikkei men's league (Nikkei equates to a Japanese emigrant, or a descendant who is not a citizen of Japan; also commonly used to refer to people of Japanese ancestry living abroad as citizens of other countries).  Roughly a year later a women's league was formed in part by Jeanette Hayakawa.  As the popularity of bowling increased, Kayo helped form additional bowling leagues.  San Francisco had four ABC, and WIBC sanctioned "Nisei Leagues", and both Men's and Women's 'Majors' major tournaments formed the San Francisco Nisei Bowling Association.  In 1974, the Japanese American National Bowling Association (JANBA) was founded.  JANBA Tournaments are held all across the U.S., and teams as far away as Japan come to compete.  In 1977, Kayo Hayakawa co-hosted the 3rd JANBA held at “L&L Castle Lanes” in San Francisco, California.  Jeanette was one of the first women to bowl a perfect 300 game in San Francisco and was inducted into the San Francisco Women's Bowling Association Hall of Fame on June 27, 1987.  Due in part to Kayo and Jeanette Hayakawa's legacy, Nikkei bowling leagues remain active in the Bay Area, offering recreation and camaraderie, and support the community by sponsoring scholarships for young people. 

On January 3, 2018, Mitsuko Jeannette Hayakawa passed away at the age of 95.  Mr. Kayo Hayakawa currently resides with his son Wayne in Salt Lake City, UT, and was unable to attend the ceremony due to health and safety concerns. 

[EdNote: Since 2014, Morita, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class and GG-13, Department of the Army Civilian (40 years total service), has completed and submitted 58 comprehensive Légion d’honneur nomination packets for World War II 100th/442nd military veterans who served in France.  To date, the Government of France has awarded this prestigious decoration to 41 veterans Morita has assisted.  Morita (jeff_kine_57@icloud.com) welcomes any request for assistance.]

Quartermaster Commandant - Biography:

Brigadier General Michael Siegl
Quartermaster General & Commandant
U.S. Army Quartermaster School
June 2022–Present


Brigadier General Michael Siegl, USA. Photo: U.S. Army. 

Reprinted from the Official of the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps and Quartermaster School, Fort Lee, Virginia

We all have defining moments in our lives. For Brigadier General Michael Siegl, it was a helicopter crash in February 1999. While two pilots were killed, the three passengers including Mike survived. In a crash that lasted just a few minutes but seemed like an eternity, Mike recognized four things. First, he realized that he did not control his destiny.

And so, he found faith. Second, Mike realized he had never told his parents he loved them. Since then, he has taken every opportunity to tell them he loves them. Third, he realized he wanted to get married, and he married his hero, Sura. Together, they have a wonderful son, Nathan. And, finally, Mike realized he needed to be a part of something much greater and larger than himself. It needed to be something with a purpose--which is why he is still serving in the United States Army today. That experience has guided how he lives his life, framed around faith, personal growth, family and relationships, and career.

Prior to becoming the 57th Quartermaster General and Commandant, BG Mike Siegl served as the Deputy Director for Readiness, Strategy, and Operations in Department of the Army (DA), G4 (Logistics). From 2020-2021, Mike was Executive Officer (XO) to the Army Materiel Command (AMC) Commanding General (CG) and the Director, CG's Initiatives Group (CIG) at AMC. From 2018-2020, Mike served as the Military Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Sustainment) and as the XO to the DA G4 (Logistics).

Following his year at Harvard University as a national security fellow in 2014, Mike took command of a brigade (403d Army Field Support Brigade) from 2015 to 2017. The organization has responsibility for the Army’s strategic and operational sustainment operations in Korea and Japan. Leading an organization in Asia was somewhat of a homecoming. Mike had lived in Asia in Korea, Thailand, and Singapore (graduating high school from the Singapore American School).

In 2013, he served as the aide-de-camp to the CG, AMC. Previously, in 2011-2013, he served as the battalion commander of 296th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB), 3-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT).

During the SBCT’s deployment to Afghanistan in 2012, Mike’s battalion provided sustainment support to an area the size of West Virginia. During that deployment, his Soldiers drove a total of about 25,000 miles. Since the earth is 24,900 miles in circumference, the Soldiers drove the equivalent of around the world in treacherous terrain in support of the brigade combat team. Prior to command of 296BSB, Mike had been the Deputy G4 in the 2d Infantry Division (2ID) in Korea in 2010.

Mike was the battalion executive officer for the 204th BSB, 2/4 Heavy Brigade Combat Team (HBCT) in 2007 and support operations officer while deployed to Iraq in 2008. Mike helped develop and execute the HBCT’s logistics support plan including the brigade’s movement from south of Baghdad to Basra in the south. He served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) as the Military Assistant to the Director of Logistics (J4), JCS, Pentagon from 2005 to 2006. He also served in the Army Human Resources Command (HRC) as an assignment officer and Secretary of the General Staff (2002-2004).

From 1996 to 1999 and 2000 to 2002, Mike served in 2ID, Korea. He served in various positions during his time north of Seoul. His positions included time as the assistant DISCOM S1 (personnel officer), platoon leader, company commander, battalion S4 (logistics officer) and S3 (operations officer) in the 302d Forward Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team. He also served as an aide-de-camp to the Assistant Division Commander (Support), 2ID.

Mike holds a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in history and a master’s degree from Georgetown University in policy management.

His military awards include the Legion of Merit (six awards), the Bronze Star Medal (two awards), and the Meritorious Service Medal (six awards). He is airborne and parachute rigger (aerial delivery) qualified.

Mike has written and published several articles on various topics that have interested him including: Realigning the Army's Ethical Compass (Military Review); Military Culture and Transformation (Joint Forces Quarterly); Clarity and Culture in Stability Operations (Military Review); Sustaining a BCT in Southern Iraq (Army Sustainment); and Understanding the Supply Chain Operations Reference Model (Army Logistician).

[EdNote: JAVA thanks Rod Azama for passing along the article on Brigadier General Michael Siegl. The article can be accessed online at https://quartermaster.army.mil/quartermaster_general_bio.html]

January 1, 2023

160th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation! 

Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC. Photo: NPS/Terry Adams.

By Eric and Amy Saul

Happy New Year to Everyone!

January 1, 2023, marks the 160th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's signing of the Emancipation Proclamation at the White House.  This event set in motion the ultimate freeing of nearly four million enslaved African Americans in the United States.

In commemoration of this historic event, Mr. Paul Ashe is having a moving bell-ringing ceremony in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.  He is organizing a ceremony that will toll a historic 1863 bell 160 times, in honor of the many abolitionists and antislavery activists who worked to end slavery.

The ceremony will take place from 2:30-3:00 pm on Sunday, New Year's Day.

Paul is also using this ceremony to announce a fundraising campaign to build a carillon in Washington, DC, dedicated to American abolitionists and antislavery activists.

Amy and I are participating in this moving event.

Congratulations to Paul for this beautiful initiative!

For information about the project, please follow this link:  Bells.org

For information about the event on Sunday, use this link:  Bells.org/160

As you know, Amy and I have been working on a program to honor abolitionists and have posted an extensive database on abolitionism.  Here is the link: AmericanAbolitionists.com

Have a great New Year!

Mark Your Calendar!

General Membership Meeting

February 4, 2023

Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 3:00 pm EST/ 12:00 pm PST / 10:00 am HST

Please Join Us!

On Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 3:00 pm EST/ 12:00 pm PST / 10:00 am HST, JAVA will hold its General Membership Meeting virtually on Microsoft Teams. All are welcome to attend. 

The main focus of the annual meeting will be discussing JAVA’s future direction. Howard High, JAVA Vice President and Chair of JAVA’s Strategic Planning Committee, will lead the discussion on organizing the committee’s work. Also at the meeting, Gerald Yamada will review JAVA initiatives, JAVA Committees will report on activities, and the 2023 JAVA Awards will be presented. Additionally, members will be asked to ratify the JAVA By-law Amendment on membership composition which is posted below. 

The meeting will be posted on Eventbrite and an email notification will be sent to all JAVA members and Friends of JAVA in January to RSVPs. JAVA Vice President Howard High will send all who RSVP a link to join the meeting. Please reach out to Howard High if you have questions about joining the meeting at howard.high@java-us.org.

Proposed JAVA By-Law Amendment

The Executive Council (EC) of the Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) adopted the following by-law amendment regarding JAVA’s membership composition. The amended portion is adding a new Section 1.c addition to Article III of the JAVA By-laws. The new subsection c is underlined in the text below.   

Article III. MEMBERSHIP

Section 1. Membership Categories. The Association has two membership categories: The Association has the following membership categories:

a. War Veterans as specified in 38 USC §101 and Rev. Rul. 78-239, 19781 C.B. 162 and

b. General Members that are:

1. Present or former members of the United States Armed Forces who are not war veterans;

2. Spouses, widows, or widowers, of present or former members of the United States Armed Forces

3. Ancestors of former members of the United States Armed Forces or lineal descendants of present or former members of the United States Armed Forces;

4. Cadets (including only students in college or university ROTC programs or at Armed Services academies); and

5.  Anyone who does not qualify for any of the above categories.

c. To maintain JAVA’s status as a “war veterans organization,” JAVA’s membership composition shall be restricted so that at least 75% of the total membership are war veteran members (subsection a above) and that no more than 25% of the total membership shall be general members (subsection b above).  The 25% general member category is further restricted by the Internal Revenue Service so that no more that 22.5% of the total membership are to be general members who are eligible under subsections b(1), (2), or(4).  Also, no more than 2.5% of the total membership are to be general members who are eligible under subsection b(5) and who are approved by the Executive Council as general members.  To ensure that JAVA maintains the appropriate membership composition as required by law and regulation, anyone who is eligible under subsection b(3) shall not be accepted as general members.  

The general JAVA membership is asked to vote at the General Membership Meeting on February 4, 2023, on this by-law amendment

It is important to ensure that JAVA’s membership composition complies with statutory and regulatory requirements to maintain JAVA’s tax-exempt status as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) under 26 USC 501(c)(19) and to allow donations to JAVA to be charitable donations under 26 USC 170.  The proposed amendment incorporates existing restrictions into the JAVA by-laws.

As a matter of policy, the EC decided not to accept as a general member anyone who is an ancestor of former members of the United States Armed Forces or a lineal descendant of present or former members of the United States Armed Forces.  The reason is that, if these applicants were accepted as general members, their numbers would far exceed the 2.5% limitation and would put JAVA in non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations.  Rather than pick and choose among the applicants to stay within the 2.5% restriction, the EC decided to accept and recognize all of these applicants and current general members as Friends of JAVA. 

Friends of JAVA receive JAVA communications (i.e. e-Advocate and Alerts) and may attend JAVA events.  Friends of JAVA may not vote on JAVA matters.  Children of Friends of JAVA would not qualify to apply for a JAVA scholarship unless the student meets one of the other scholarship criteria such as being an ancestor or lineal descendant of a World War II Japanese American veteran.  A Friend of JAVA could not run for a JAVA office, but the eligibility requirements for president, vice-president, and secretary require the candidate to be a veteran.  A candidate for treasurer can be a non-veteran but must be accepted as a general member by the EC. 

If you have any questions, please email JAVA President Gerald Yamada at: gerald.yamada@java-us.org.


New Members

JAVA sends a warm Aloha to our new Veterans as well as new Friends of JAVA.

Active Duty

BG Neal S. Mitsuyoshi, USA

MSgt Timothy Tanbonliong, USAF 

War Veteran

Edwin Asahara, USA

SrA Harry Brooks, Security Wing & 6917 Security Group

James Buckner, USA

Drezlynne Kanda-Perry, USN

Evan Kubota, USA

Geoffrey Matsunaga, USN

Michael Miller, NMCB 5

Capt Kaili Morikawa, USAF

Stanley Nagata, USAF

Elizabeth Nakamura, USN

MSgt Richard Nocis, USAF

COL (Dr) Michael Oshiki, USA (Ret)

Eric Takada, USA 

SGM Gary Williams, USA (Ret), 44th Engineer Group


Friend Of JAVA 

Joline Chang

Eric K. Federing

Donations

JAVA offers a heartfelt thanks to our generous members and friends for their gifts, memorials, and tributes given in support of our mission, events, and scholarships. We are truly grateful.


Marsha Azuma - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Spencer Baba - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Dianne Nakashima Barstein - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Larry Bitow - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Judith and Richard Blakemore - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Lei Brady - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Dawn Eilenberger - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Maj Larry Gladback, USAF (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Ken Hayashi - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Bruce Henderson - In Honor of the MIS Nisei Veterans who served in the Pacific

Akira Horiuchi, MIS - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Roy Imamura - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

CPT Wade Ishimoto, USA (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Lynn Kanaya - In Honor of Terry Shima

Brian Kawamoto - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Dale B. Kawata - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Mark Koiwai - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

LTC Jason I. Kuroiwa, USA (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

CDR David Lee, David, USN (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Vincent Matsui - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Dr. James McNaughton - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Richard and Ann Mikami - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

BG Neal S. Mitsuyoshi, USA - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Peggy Mizumoto - In Memory of Robert Katsumi Mizumoto

Hollis Molden - 2023 Ishio Founder's Scholarship 

Hollis Molden - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

LTC Heather Moriyama, USA (Ret) and LTC Richard Moriyama, USA - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Mary Murakami - 2022 Fundraising Appeal / Memorial Day

Robert S. and Sherri Nakamoto - Robert Nakamoto Scholarship

Ellen Nakashima - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Edwin and Mary Nakasone - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

COL Danielle Ngo, USA - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Lisa Ninomiya - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Lester Sakamoto - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Pete Sarmiento - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

LT Craig Shimizu, USA (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Col Dale Shirasago, USAF (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Jeffery Sugai - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

COL (Dr) Ernest Takafuji, USA (Ret) and Carol Takafuji - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Rex Takahashi - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Earl and Kim Takeguchi - 2022 Fundraising Appeal / Education Scholarships

Linda Tamura - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Metta Tanikawa - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Veronica Tanikawa - Memorial Day

Julie Tsuchiya - 2023 Ishio Founder's Scholarship

COL Alan Ueoka, USA (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

LTC Robert Vokac, USA (Ret) - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Gerald and Nancy Yamada, General Fund / Luncheon Support

Takashi Yamamoto - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

MG Garrett S. Yee, USA (Ret) and Maria Yee - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

Sgt Boyd Zumwalt, USMC - 2022 Fundraising Appeal

TAPS

Kenjiro Akune

July 3, 1923 - November 20, 2022


Kenjiro Akune. Photo by Shane Sato. 

Kenjiro Akune was born in 1923 and educated in Turlock, California. His mother died during the Great Depression, so the Akune family returned to Kagoshima, Japan, where Ken grew up as a kibei teen. As the Great Depression deepened, the family sent the eldest sons back to Central California for economic survival. At the outbreak of World War II, the Akune brothers were interred at the Amache Concentration Camp in Colorado, where Ken and his older brother, Harry, volunteered for the US Army Military Intelligence Service, classified as 4C, enemy aliens.

After intensive military language training at Camp Savage, Minnesota, Ken was deployed to the China-Burma-India theatre of war. He was attached to British forces to open the Ledo Road in Myitkyina, Burma. He recounts harrowing military transport flights with the Flying Tigers aircraft over the Himalaya hump into Chongquing, China. While interrogating Japanese POWs in Kunming, he described listening in subdued jubilation to the Emperor of Japan announce the surrender on a radio broadcast.

Ken made his way to Tokyo shortly after the surrender and while reporting for duty at the Supreme Allied Command Headquarters, was miraculously reunited with his brother, Harry, stepping out of the elevator. Soon, thereafter, both brothers discovered their family in Kagoshima had survived the War. The family separation has been the subject of several documentaries of Brothers Against Brothers in War.

After demobilizing to Seattle, Ken was honorably discharged from the US Army. But opportunities in America continued to be biased against Japanese-Americans. A new opportunity arose for his language skills as a translator for the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal, where he supported translations to secure the guilty verdicts for Hideki Tojo. But his greatest personal achievement was meeting and marrying Alice Shiosaka in 1948.

Kenjiro and Alice quietly returned to Los Angeles in 1949 to start and raise a family. They found a hospitable community in Gardena where he humbly rekindled their American dream with a long career at Hughes Aircraft. After retirement, Ken helped to found the Go For Broke National Education Center where he recounted his war-time memories for those who could not speak up for their sacrifices. His message was simple: “We believed in America when America did not believe in us.”

Kenjiro Akune died in Gardena (1923-2022), surrounded by family. His wife of 74 years, Alice, predeceased him by 8 weeks. They are survived by their 5 children: Karen Akune, David Akune, Kenneth Akune (Yvonne Romaine), Teresa Akune, and Kathleen Choi; plus two grandchildren: Kyle Choi (Margaret Li Choi) and Amy Choi.

Lovely tribute videos to Alice Akune and Kenjiro Akune and videos of their full funeral Masses along with the above obituary can be accessed at  https://www.fukuimortuary.com/obituary/kenjiro-akune


[EdNote: JAVA sends deepest condolences to the Akune family and friends. We also thank Robert Horsting for sharing news of Mr. Akune's passing and thank Shane Sato for permission to use photograph.]

Questions or Suggestions: Please contact Neet Ford at javapotomac@gmail.com.

Japanese American Veterans Association:  Address: P.O. Box 341198, Bethesda, MD 20827 I www.java-us.org.

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