SEATTLE — Many across western Washington are honoring those who've paid the ultimate price for American freedom. One of the largest Memorial Day events was held at Lake View Cemetery in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, where more than 100 people gathered to preserve the legacy of the Nisei veterans who fought in World War II.
"If you don't know history, then you're doomed to repeat it, as the saying goes," said Dale Watanabe, the commander with the Nisei Veterans Committee (NVC), a nonprofit organization based in Seattle dedicated to preserving and carrying on the legacy left behind by WWII Nisei soldiers.
Nisei stands for "2nd generation Japanese American." A generation that faced discrimination and incarceration in internment camps. According to NVC, 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry, many of whom were American citizens, were forced into 10 different internment camps located throughout the U.S. during WWII. Despite these obstacles, thousands of these Japanese Americans still fought for the country. Many were part of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
Known as the most decorated unit for its size and length of service, it primarily comprised Japanese Americans.
"They thought that if they could prove themselves in battle there would be no one that would question their loyalty, their dedication to the U.S.," said Watanabe.
That dedication lives on today. "I'm a proud son. I got to tell you, I’m a very proud son," said Kim Muromoto.
He’s the son of a hero, 101-year-old Kimitomo Muromoto. One of the last remaining members from the 442nd, earning him prestigious awards, including a bronze star medal.
"To be taken out of camp, and to go fight the war they did and fight proudly and bravely, and live up to the 'Go for Broke' spirit, it's amazing," said Muromoto.
A spirit that will continue to live on through these stories that need to be told. "They are American, it's an American story,” said Watanabe. “We should all be proud of it.”