JAVA’s Day of Affirmation Wreath Ceremony National World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C. Saturday, July 15, 2023 12:00 pm EDT/ 9:00 am PDT / 6:00 am HST
Full Page Tribute to JAVA’s Day of Affirmation in THE RAFU SHIMPO, July 11, 2023, page 7 Mr. Hiro Watanabe, President of Red Shell Foods, known for their miso salad dressing, took out a full-page tribute in THE RAFU SHIMPO that featured a Japanese translation of Gerald Yamada’s Day of Affirmation statement. Mr. Watanabe strongly believes that everyone, including the Japanese, should be aware of the significant sacrifices made by Japanese Americans serving in the armed forces during World War II. He maintains that the Nisei’s contributions continue to benefit society today. Image: Courtesy of THE RAFU SHIMPO.
Dear JAVA Members and Friends:On Saturday, July 15th at 12 noon (EDT) at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, JAVA will hold the fourth annual Day of Affirmation wreath ceremony to show our appreciation for the legacy created by the thirty-three thousand Japanese American men and women who served in World War II.
The military escort and wreath bearers for the Day of Affirmation ceremony will represent three generations of Terry Shima’s family. Terry Shima is a veteran of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this year. The military escort is Terry’s son Mike Shima, who will be assisted by his son Eric Shima. Following his father’s legacy of service, Mike served in the U.S. Army. One of the wreath bearers will be Eileen Shima Roulier, who is Terry’s daughter. The other wreath bearer will be Mike’s daughter, Kelly Shima, who will be assisted by her son, Donovan Trexler.
All are welcome to attend this year’s Day of Affirmation Ceremony in- person at the National WWII Memorial, located at 1750 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. The program will also be livestreamed on JAVA’s Facebook page – click here to watch or visit JAVA’s website
Thank you for your support.
Gerald Yamada
JAVA President
