Japanese Americans during WWII made the ultimate sacrifice to prove their loyalty to the United States. Many gave their lives to this country. Now the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to members of the 442nd, 100th Infantry Battalion and the Military Intelligence Service will go on national tour beginning this weekend in New Orleans.
“For a lot of younger people, World War II is like ancient times,” said Irene Hirano Inouye, widow of the late Senator Daniel Inouye told the AP. “We have to remember that there are a lot of younger people who just have not been exposed to the story.” Her husband lost his right arm fighting for the 442nd and the tour was important to him as a way to preserve the story.
Inouye plans to attend the opening ceremony at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. Other stops include Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, OR, Chicago & Houston.