Vol. 6, No. 76, August 6, 2024
In This Issue…
- President’s Message
- JAVA ‘s New General Counsel
- Heroes of the Vosges Museum
- Japanese-American veteran receives a hero’s welcome in French village he helped liberate
- Day of Affirmation
- US Army honors Nisei combat unit that helped liberate Tuscany from Nazi-Fascist forces in WWII
- Taps: Richard Makoto Hirata
- Taps: Margaret S. Hirano Miyasaki
- A Wish of a Lifetime
- Upcoming JAVA Events
President’s Message
| On July 27th, JAVA proudly hosted the annual Memorial Scholarship Presentations. The scholarships were awarded to deserving recipients who embody our community’s values and future promise. We encourage you to take a moment to read about each of the recipients on the JAVA website: https://java-us.org/scholarship/. They assure us that our future is in capable hands. A special thank you to Chris DeRosa for chairing the Scholarship Committee and to the committee members: MAJ Kay Izumihara (USAR), CAPT (Dr.) Cynthia Macri (USN Ret), and LTC Bob Vokac (USA Ret). We also thank LTC Jason Kuroiwa (USA Ret) for serving as the MC for the presentation. Thank you all! Dawn Eilenberger, JAVA’s General Counsel, Steps Down Our esteemed General Counsel, Dawn Eilenberger, informed us in February of her decision to step down from her position by the end of July, transitioning to inactive Bar status. We respect her decision while feeling the weight of this loss for our association. On behalf of the Japanese American Veterans Association, I want to express our deepest gratitude for Dawn’s invaluable service as our General Counsel over the past five years. Her dedication and commitment have been genuinely inspiring. Balancing her role with other significant commitments, including serving on two corporate boards and her college board of trustees, demonstrates her exceptional capabilities and unwavering dedication. Her choice to maintain her active Bar status solely for the benefit of JAVA underscores her profound commitment to our mission. We are incredibly honored to have had a professional of her caliber guide and support JAVA. Dawn’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our organization, and her presence will be greatly missed. However, we are fortunate that she will remain a valued member of JAVA. |
JAVA’s New General Counsel
As announced in the previous edition of the e-advocate, Dawn Eilenberger has officially stepped down from the position of JAVA’s General Counsel. She has done so much work, serving on JAVA’s executive council since 2018. While we are sad to see her go, JAVA welcomes her replacement. As of July 29th, JAVA welcomes David Miyoshi as the new General Counsel member.
David Masao Miyoshi was born in 1944 to Joe and Jean Miyoshi. In 1961, he graduated Gardena High School and the University of Southern California with honors in 1966. In the Marine Corps, he served as an officer commanding a Combined Action Platoon in Vietnam receiving the Naval Commendation Medal with combat “V.” In 1973, David received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California and worked in international law at Matsuo and Kosugi International Law firm in Tokyo. He completed the International Studies program at Waseda University and assisted Professor Zentaro Kitagawa to publish Kitagawa’s classic 10 volume Matthew Bender series on International Law at Kyoto University.
In 1978, David attended Harvard University earning an MBA degree in International Finance and worked at Mori and Ota Law Office. In 1986 he opened his own law firm, the Miyoshi International Law Office in downtown Los Angeles practicing international business and estate planning. In 1995, David was selected International Man of the Year by the International Biographical Centre of Cambridge England for his work in International Business. This is given to only a few individuals whose achievements and leadership stand out in the international community.
David is a member of various bar associations throughout the country and listed in 14 Who’s Who publications throughout the world. He served as legal advisor to the Little Tokyo Community Council, the Japanese American Korean War Veterans Association and the Americans of Japanese Ancestry World War II Memorial Alliance. He is the main legal counsel to the Japanese American Medical Association and board member of the Veterans Memorial Court Alliance and the Kazuo Masuda Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3670.
David dedicates his life to activities that ensure the service and sacrifice of all Japanese Americans in the U.S. military will never be forgotten.
He publishes The Financial Crisis Report on current social, economic, political, and military issues facing America. He attends Palos Verdes Baptist Church, has two grown sons and resides in Palos Verdes Estates with his wife Teruko of over 45 years.
Heroes of the Vosges Museum
The town of Bruyères France has approved the incremental development of a museum that will be known as the “Heroes of the Vosges Museum.” It will not only honor the sacrifice of 100th/442nd RCT, but will preserve Nisei and French Resistance artifacts associated with the Liberation of Bruyères, Belmont and Biffontaine. The museum will create a destination attraction for those who visit Bruyères to honor the Nisei and the French Resistance. A website, vosgesheroes.org, has been created and the museum organization, headed by Carl Williams, has been granted 501 (c) (3) status by the IRS.The Museum project seeks cash donations and artifacts. A significant portion of the artifacts and related materials was recently sent for air shipment. The museum remains about $10,000 short of its current goal of $50,000. We urge you to visit the site and make a generous contribution to the effort. The project intends to open a small temporary exhibit in the existing Henri-Mathieu Musee in time for the 80th Anniversary celebrations on October 20, 2024. All the tax-deductible funds raised for the project will be used to create a permanent site for the collected artifacts. To that end we seek the support of JAVA and its members. JAVA’s President, Howard High, along with two members of Congress have been invited by the Mayor of Bruyères to attend the celebrations. We look forward to seeing you in Bruyères! [Ed: The article was written by Carl Williams. If you wish to donate or loan an artifact, please contact Antoinette Phelps at javapotomac@gmail.com. There is no deadline for any donated (or loaned) artifacts.] |
Japanese- American veteran receives a hero’s welcome in French village he helped liberate
| [Ed Note: The original video was created by ABC7.] |
Day of Affirmation Ceremony
Washington, D.C. – June 15, 2024 – The Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) is deeply honored to announce a momentous commemoration event, marking the 78th anniversary of the 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team’s return from Europe. This significant event is a poignant reflection of the historic moment when President Harry S. Truman welcomed the unit back to Washington, D.C., at the Ellipse, the outer south lawn of the White House, on July 15, 1946.
To commemorate this historic event, JAVA laid a wreath at the Price of Freedom Wall, National World War II Memorial, honoring the 33,000 Japanese American men and women who served in World War II, followed by a speech from JAVA President Howard High and the playing of taps.
The “Day of Affirmation” ceremony was live-streamed via Facebook on July 15, 2024, at noon (EST). To watch, please visit the JAVA Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JapaneseAmericanVeteransAssociation/ or the JAVA website at https://www.java-us.org/.
LTC Mark Nakagawa, USA (Ret) and Howard High (JAVA president) .
JAVA President Howard High’s Remarks
(as Prepared)
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is an honor to stand before you today on this significant occasion, the Day of Affirmation.
Today, we commemorate and honor the extraordinary legacy of Japanese Americans who served in the U.S. military during World War II.
This day, July 15, is not just a date on the calendar but a reminder of the courage, bravery, and indomitable spirit of those who fought for our country abroad and at home.
On July 15, 1946, President Harry Truman welcomed the returning 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, praising their achievements with words that still resonate deeply within our hearts.
He said, “You fought the enemy abroad, and you fought prejudice at home, and you won.” These words encapsulate the dual battle these brave individuals faced—against a wartime enemy and the unjust prejudice within their homeland.
The Day of Affirmation is more than a historical observance; it is a powerful reaffirmation of the values of bravery, sacrifice, and equality.
It is a day when we, as a community, come together to remember the contributions of the Nisei soldiers, who stood steadfast in the face of discrimination and proved their loyalty and love for this country through their actions.
Despite facing significant racial prejudice and being subjected to incarceration camps, these soldiers chose to serve their country with unparalleled bravery.
Their legacy is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of standing up for justice and equality.
They not only fought bravely on the battlefield but also challenged and helped dismantle the racial barriers that existed within our society.
As we honor these heroes today, let us also reflect on the broader implications of their sacrifices.
Their fight for justice and equality is a legacy that continues to inspire us.
It calls upon us to confront and combat prejudice in all its forms, to strive for a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and to work towards a future where the values they upheld are realized in every aspect of our lives.
Let us also take this opportunity to express our profound gratitude to the families of these soldiers. Their support and sacrifices have been invaluable, and their stories continue to inspire and educate future generations about the importance of perseverance and integrity.
In closing, the Day of Affirmation is a beacon of hope and a call to action.
US Army honors Nisei combat unit that helped liberate Tuscany from Nazi-Fascist forces in WWII
The U.S. military is celebrating a little-known part of World War II history by honoring the Japanese-American U.S. Army unit that was key to liberating parts of Italy and France. Descendents of the Nisei soldiers traveled to Italy to tour the sites where their relatives fought and attended a commemoration ceremony in Camp Darby ahead of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of nearby Livorno in Tuscany.
Two descendants of Nisei soldiers, whose fathers served in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team attended the ceremony.
The Regiment was organized in 1943, in response to the call for volunteers to form the segregated combat unity. Thousands of second-generation Japanese Americans, “Nisei” answered the call.
The Nisei commemoration was held one week before the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Livorno, on July 19, 1944. Local residents were also commemorating the anniversary.
[Ed: The full original article can be found here on the AP News website. Thank you to CPT Wade Ishimoto, USA (Ret) for bringing this article to JAVA’s attention.]
Taps
Richard Makoto Hirata
November 17, 1935 – May 29th 2024
Richard “Dick” Makoto Hirata, 88, of Gaithersburg, MD died peacefully at home on May 29, 2024. He led a life nurtured by family, friendship, and faith, guided by the motto of “Duty, Honor, Country”, the Hippocratic Oath and the teachings of the Gospels. He was a valued teacher who himself took joy in learning from family and friends throughout his life.
Richard was born November 17, 1935, the oldest of eight children of Hawaii natives Hajime and Yukie (Tamori) Hirata. Lahaina, Maui was then an agricultural community, growing sugar and pineapple. The beaches were his playground. Teachers, Boy Scouts and the Methodist Church opened the world beyond Maui’s shores for him. He graduated from Lahainaluna High School in 1953.
Dick received his appointment to West Point, the United States Military Academy from Hawaii’s Delegate to Congress, Joseph R. Farrington in 1953, while a freshman at MIT. He graduated in 1958 and was commissioned as 2LT in the Corps of Engineers. Over the next year, he successfully completed Airborne School and Ranger training.
He and his wife Kathleen married in 1959 and he served an assignment with the 65th Engineer Bn, Schofield Barracks HI. Disappointed that his West Point training was not being utilized, he returned to an earlier ambition, medicine. Encouraged by other WP graduates, he sought admission to and was admitted to Cornell University Medical College, on completion of basic requirements, graduating in 1965. He completed internship and General Surgery residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC). In 1970, he served as Commanding Officer and surgeon at the 43rd Surgical Hospital in Uijeongbu, South Korea. Returning to WRAMC, he completed a fellowship in Head and Neck surgery.
A move to Fitzsimons AMC was enjoyed with his family of four children, as he served as Assistant Chief and Chief of General Surgery Service and Head & Neck Surgery for six years. He continued in these roles upon his return to WRAMC in 1978. These years, as surgeon, teacher and chief were rewarding and enjoyable years for him.
After 23 years of military service, Dick retired from the Army in 1981, entering into private practice with Darrell A. Jaques M.D. near Baltimore, MD. As the practice grew to include John A. Saunders M.D. and aligned with The Milton J. Dance Head & Neck Center at GBMC, it practiced developing, specialized and compassionate care for their patients. He also served the communities of caregivers and patients in his roles as president of the Baltimore County Medical Association and as a member of the Maryland Board of Physicians. In 2004 he retired from surgery and continued seeing patients at the Center until 2011.
During these years, Dick enjoyed time with his family and remained active in his church. His service continued through several church mission trips with Towson and Hiss United Methodist churches to Bolivia and Central American countries. The Sunshine Girls of his home church, Timonium UMC, provided handmade dolls for the children. His appointment to the Baltimore Washington Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, as a lay person, provided another opportunity for his spiritual growth. Dick and Kathy moved to Asbury Methodist Village, Gaithersburg MD in 2015, where they have enjoyed new community and friends.
He is survived by his wife, their four children, their spouses, and seven grandchildren. The family invites you to share a story about Dick, in this space or with someone you know. A memorial service was held on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 11am in the Guild Chapel at Asbury Methodist Village – 301 Odendhal Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD.
[EdNote: The original article was written by the Baltimore Sun. You can find the original obituary on Legacy.com here.]
Taps
Margaret S. Hirano Miyasaki
Forwarded is a JAVA Member update from Ms. Gaye Miyasaki, Esq., Daughter of 442nd Veteran Robert and Margaret Miyasaki:
Aloha,
I just wanted to let the JAVA team know that our mom, Margaret S. Hirano Miyasaki passed away on April 17, 2024 at our local hospital here in Honolulu.
At age 100 + years, she lived long and happy. Just in the last two weeks after a fall, she spent time at the hospital and a little bit at the respite center upon which she succumbed back at the hospital.
Her husband, my dad, Dr. Robert M. Miyasaki served as a Medic in the Field Hospital under Headquarters during WWII in the European Theatre. He was at the liberation of Bruyeres/Biffontaine and the liberation of the Gothic Line. He practiced dentistry all my life after marrying Mom and having two daughters. He passed away in 1998, so mom was with me, and later my sister, when she returned home just before Covid hit us here in Honolulu.
I spent many wonderful years with Mom, traveling with Lawson Sakai and his group as we visited the French and Italian sites 3 times. Once a commemorative 65th anniversary of the liberation in 2006. The last visit was in 2009, just to France, but Mom, sister, and I also visited London on that trip.
Her dad was James M. Hirano, who ran a Stationer’s Corp in Hilo, HI. They know Terry Shima. I also attended Georgetown University Law Center in DC, and during that time, I met Mike Masaoka, his wife, and Mike’s assistant Mary Toda. I made some wonderful memories there as well.
The Masaoka’s invited me to the farewell dinner at the Japanese Embassy for retired US Ambassador to Japan, Mike Mansfield and his wife. Such a lovely time spent looking around DC. Many, many hours visiting the Smithsonian Museums. Hobnobbing with famous professors. Martin Ginsberg was my tax professor. Kramer was my federal law professor who left immediately for a federal political position. John Steadman, Punahou graduate, was my property professor and became a federal judge when I left. Richard Chused convinced me to forgo family law (optional) and try his new class on Gender Equality. Because it was new, the only time the school authorized pass/fail. Small discussion group, but he subsequently moved to NY Law School and now is the pre-eminent scholar on Gender Equity.
You won’t believe the life I led thanks to the support of my family, especially Mom, Dad too, who paid all the bills. At Punahou School when I was a stellar Math sophomore, my math teacher asked me to tutor math to 5th and 6th graders for the Spring Semester. Yes, Barack Obama was one of the students as he just enrolled at Punahou that year. My dad said his infamous grandmother was his patient and she would sometimes bring Barack who would wait patiently in the waiting room and read a book.
Doug Parker, a mainstay in environmental and pesticide regulation at GULC was the supervising professor when I signed up to take a legal clinic for credit. Our task was to help Prince George’s County in MD to have entities put up signs when spraying for a particularly harmful pesticide. After much discourse in the courts, the FDA banned that particular pesticide. By then I was long gone and back home practicing.
Mom came up several times to visit me and enjoyed meeting my law school friends and professors. I got into wreath making and brought supplies back to Honolulu so her lady friends could make wreaths. I still remember the day she first walked in the snow when she visited one winter. We just walked out down the street to get dinner and it was so cold for her we had to duck into the first restaurant right at the corner! So funny.
Anyway, since mom, dad and grandpa Hirano (also Aunt Alice gone) and uncle Tommy Hirano (also now gone) knew folks there in DC, I thought I should make an official announcement to the crew at JAVA.
Please thank everyone for all the support through the years, we still think about her, never to be forgotten.
A Hui Hou,
Gaye Miyasaki
Daughter of Veteran Robert Miyasaki and wife Margaret S. Hirano Miyasaki
Wish of a Lifetime
To All Veterans: An Opportunity to get a “Wish of a Lifetime”
Message from JAVA’s Vice President, COL (Ret) Danielle Ngo
Recently this wonderful, charitable organization came across our path. It grants wishes, especially for the older generations to show respect and honor for their importance and continuing contributions to our lives.
Christy Hiura, an advocate for veterans and with ties to the Japanese community, reached out to us to explain the program, which is available to all veterans 65 or older to apply.
Please read the attached flier and her message below and apply for an opportunity to get a wish you only ever dreamed about. Share with others who you know could benefit from this. Thank you for all you do!
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Hello to all JAVA veterans! My name is Christy Hiura and I am a volunteer with Wish of a Lifetime from AARP. As a Wish nominator, my deepest desire is to nominate you veterans, for I firmly believe your service and sacrifices must be continuously championed lest our fellow Americans forget the immense cost of the freedoms they enjoy.
Wish of a Lifetime is a non-profit organization that celebrates the accomplishments and sacrifices of our older generations by embracing aging and honoring the inherent wisdom that comes with it. Wishes are granted to persons 65 or older with special stories of service and achievements. We want to fulfill wishes that hold deep meaning to the wish recipient to give them a sense of hope, wonder, and triumph.
I have been honored to work with several veterans organizations including the Go for Broke Foundation in Los Angeles. Thanks to their efforts, I recently had the honor of nominating a 442d veteran for his Wish to have his art displayed at the Smithsonian Museum. I’m excited to share that Wish of a Lifetime’s board has already approved his Wish and is in the process of working with the Smithsonian to fulfill it. The Veterans of Foreign Wars and local veterans centers have also been tremendous resources for connecting with veterans, some of whom have granted me the privilege of nominating them for a Wish of a Lifetime. One nominee had his Wish to return to the Air Force Academy granted in September, 2023, while another will have his Wish for a family reunion fulfilled this summer!
I encourage you to look at Wish of a Lifetime’s website at https://wishofalifetime.org/ as well as the two pages attached to this introduction letter (a Wish of a Lifetime flier and a mail-in application pamphlet).
This is my opportunity to serve you, so my hope is that many of you will consider giving me the honor of nominating you for a Wish of a Lifetime. By doing so, you will also continue your life of service by inspiring others both young and old, to live life to the fullest no matter their age!
With deep gratitude,
Christy Hiura
Upcoming JAVA Events
Monday, November 11th. Veterans Day Program, National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II, Washington DC.
