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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congress honored a large group of World War II veterans Wednesday for their significant contributions during the war. More than 300 Japanese-American soldiers received the Congressional Gold Medal — one of the nation's highest awards.
The 330 former members of the Army's 442nd Regimental Combat Team gathered with family members at the U.S Capitol for the special ceremony. The men are well into their 80s now, so the award is long overdue.
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Congress honors Japanese-American soldiers
Thousands of Japanese-Americans who fought in the fiercest battles of World War II were given an overdue thank-you from their country Wednesday when Congress awarded them its highest civilian honor."Today, at long last, we award the Congressional Gold Medal to a group of Americans who are deserving of it as any I have ever known," Arizona Sen. John McCain said during Wednesday's ceremony.
It is one of the highest recognitions that this country gives, and it was presented to members of the 442nd Combat Team. The medal recognizes the heroics and sacrifices of all 19,000 Japanese Americans who served during World War II.
"The Brave soldiers of the 442nd Regiment had a moto: ‘Go For Broke.' And that's exactly what they did," said Texas Rep. Ralph Hall. "This motto defined the way these men and women approached every battle of World War II.
It's certainly fitting then that the medal itself bears those words "Go For Broke."
-Consisted of volunteers, about two-thirds from Hawaii and the rest from the mainland.
-Experienced some of the most horrific fighting in Europe and became the most decorated unit in U.S. military history for its size and length of service.
-Lost more than 700 soldiers in just 10 months of combat. They were either killed or listed as missing in action.
-Fought in eight major campaigns in Italy, France and Germany.
-Had the motto "go for broke."
There are 11 surviving members of the regiment from Utah who attended the ceremony. Nelson Akagi is one. He volunteered for service in 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt made it legal for Japanese Americans to serve.
"We trained for almost a year, and then we were shipped to the European war," Akagi explained.
The Congressional Gold Medal dates back to the American Revolution, and it's not just a military honor: actors, authors, entertainers, and other notables have received it. Each medal is uniquely designed and produced by the U.S. Mint.
Last year, President Barack Obama signed legislation to award the medal to the 442nd. The actual gold medal goes to the Smithsonian. Each of Wednesday's recipients got a bronze replica to bring home.
"Their commitment demonstrates a highly uncommon and commendable sense of patriotism and honor," said House Speaker John Boehner.
Long-time Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye, himself a member of the 442nd, originally introduced the legislation that Obama signed last year. Nearly seven decades later, members of this group finally have their day.
Email: kmccord@ksl.com
