U.S. House Passes Legislation Honoring “Go For Broke” Japanese-American WWII Veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal

Washington, Sep 23, 2010 -

“This recognition of bravery, patriotism, and unquestioned loyalty is long overdue,” said Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii) as the U.S. House today passed S.1055, legislation that collectively awards the Congressional Gold Medal to the U.S. Army “Go For Broke” 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service for their acts of valor during World War II.  The measure passed by voice vote in the U.S. House.  It now goes to President Obama for his signature.

Once signed into law, it recognizes Nisei soldiers -- Japanese-Americans born of immigrant parents -- who fought in Europe and the Asia-Pacific theatre at a time when the U.S. government sent their families to internment camps throughout the country. A majority of the Nisei who served during World War II were from Hawaii.

“At a time when many of their fellow Americans questioned their loyalty to the United States, these Japanese-American soldiers enlisted and put their lives on the line to defend our freedom overseas while fighting against fear and discrimination at home,“ said Congresswoman Hirono.

The Congressional Gold Medal will be on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institute.  The “Go For Broke” regiments are the most decorated in United States military history for its size and length of service earning 21 Medals of Honor, 29 Distinguished Service Crosses, 560 Silver Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier’s Medals, 4,000 Bronze Stars and more than 4,000 Purple Hearts, among numerous additional distinctions.