WASHINGTON – The Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) is deeply honored to announce a momentous commemoration event, marking the 78th anniversary of the 100thInfantry Battalion/442ndRegimental Combat Team’s return from Europe.
This significant event, scheduled for Monday, July 15, at noon (East Coast time), is a poignant reflection of the historic moment when President Harry S. Truman welcomed the unit back to Washington, D.C., at the Ellipse, the outer south lawn of the White House, on July 15, 1946.
On that rainy day, Truman bestowed the 100th/442ndwith its seventh Presidential Unit Citation, a testament to the exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication of this segregated, Japanese American unit, which had been activated in 1943.
In his address to the soldiers, Truman’s words echoed their valor: “You fought not only the enemy, but you fought prejudice – and you have won. Keep up that fight, and we will continue to win – to make this great republic stand for just what the Constitution says it stands for: the welfare of all the people all the time.”
The Nisei soldiers’ bravery on the battlefield in Europe and contributions in the Pacific were unparalleled, significantly impacting the war’s outcome and the future of Japanese Americans in the U.S. Truman’s affirmation highlighted the importance of their decision to fight for their country and against prejudice, a battle that continues to this day. The legacy of these soldiers has been a cornerstone in the fight against discrimination and a foundation for the benefits Japanese Americans continue to receive.
To commemorate this historic event, JAVA will lay a wreath at the Price of Freedom Wall, National World War II Memorial, honoring the 33,000 Japanese American men and women who served in World War II.
The “Day of Affirmation” ceremony will be livestreamed via Facebook on July 15, at noon (EST). To watch, visit the JAVA Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JapaneseAmericanVeteransAssociation/ or the JAVA website at https://www.java-us.org/.