"You not only fought the enemy but you fought prejudice... and you won." ~ Harry S. Truman, July 15th 1946
The people who said "Yes" and "Yes" to the 27th and 28th questions, would go and serve the U.S. army in World War II, and in the only full Japanese American combat force, the 442nd Regimental Combat Force. Many would think they were the enemy, being Japanese, but they were on the side of the Allied Nations as American citizens. One of the major battles fought by the 442nd Regimental Combat Force was the 'Battle of the Bruyères' which they conquered a important
point that was currently held by the Germans.
point that was currently held by the Germans.
The 442nd Regimental Combat Force |
"The Nisei troops are among the best in the United States Army and the respect and the appreciation due honorable, loyal, and courageous soldiers should be their's rather than the scorn and ridicule they have been receiving from some thoughtless and uninformed citizens and veterans."~ Major General E.M. Almond |
We are not enemies, but friends. |
"Their liberators, the young men of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team/100th Battalion, bore American uniforms but Japanese faces. The initial surprise of the Bruyerois at the visible incongruity quickly melted into gratitude, not only for their long-desired liberation but for the kindness bestowed upon them even giving chocolate to the children." ~ Valerie Nao Yoshimura |
Battle of the Bruyères |
"The Battle of Bruyeres has an international legacy not because its principles were from different nations, but because it so poignantly restored national identity for Japanese Americans as well as for the French."~Valerie Nao Yushimura, |