Vol. 8, No. 98, March 5, 2026
In This Issue…
- President’s Message
- Operation Tomodachi Commemoration and Alliance in Focus
- USS Daniel Inouye Tour
- “I am an American: The Nisei Soldier Experience” Grand Opening
- JAVA Memorial Scholarships 2026 — 14 Awards Totaling $33,000 – Apply by April 30!
- 28th Annual Freedom Walk
- Day of Affirmation sneak preview and seeking support
- Upcoming JAVA Events
President’s Message
Dear JAVA Members and Friends,
Freedom Walk: Turning Remembrance into Action
Each spring, as Washington, D.C., comes alive with cherry blossoms, our community gathers at the National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II for the annual Freedom Walk. This is not a symbolic stroll or a routine calendar item. As I expressed in my 2024 remarks, the Freedom Walk transcends mere remembrance and serves as a potent declaration that activism matters.
JAVA’s role in this event is both practical and deeply personal. We stand as a visible, veteran-led presence that anchors the program in service, civic responsibility, and lived experience. We are proud to serve as a continuing sponsor and partner alongside the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation and our fellow community organizations.
Event Details
This year’s Freedom Walk is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the National Japanese American Memorial in Washington, D.C.
- Check-in: 9:00 a.m.
- Opening Ceremony: 10:00 a.m.
- Keynote Speaker: Vietnam veteran Tak Furumoto
For the latest event information and updates, please consult the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation’s website (https://www.njamemorial.org/).
Why This Walk Matters
The history this walk represents is not abstract. On February 19, 1942, Executive Order 9066 enabled the forced removal and mass incarceration of about 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry The Freedom Walk exists so we do not soften these truths and instead teach them plainly to those who did not grow up with them.
This narrative spotlights the meaning of honorable perseverance when a nation fails its own ideals. At its heart is the courageous service of Nisei soldiers during World War II. For those from the mainland, practicing patriotism while their families suffered behind barbed wire was a profound act of activism. By donning the uniform, these soldiers did more than serve; they staged a disciplined demand for respect amidst widespread prejudice. Their sacrifice was an unwavering insistence on dignity, belonging, and the full protection of their rights under the Constitution.
A Legacy of Justice
Justice often arrives late and only after sustained civic effort. The Civil Liberties Act of 1988, signed by President Reagan, acknowledged the injustices faced by the Japanese American community and marked a significant milestone in our journey toward healing. This act stands as a national admission of error and a testament to our nation’s ability to champion the cause of justice.
The Freedom Walk reminds us that remembrance is not passive. It is a choice, an education, and a participation that affirms our resolve to uphold constitutional rights for all Americans.
My Request to the JAVA Family
- Attend: If you are local or can travel, please join us and bring your family and neighbors.
- Learn and Share: Tell others what Executive Order 9066 entailed and how Japanese Americans responded with honor and courage.
- Commit: As I stated in 2024, the Freedom Walk invites us to safeguard the rights of all Americans moving forward.
- Support: Continue to support the institutions that keep this history visible, including the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation.
We honor the past best by carrying it forward with clarity and action. We remember the Issei who endured and the Nisei who lived up to the values of loyalty so impressively. They did not ask to be remembered as victims; they asked to be remembered as Americans who held this country to its own principles.
Let us meet this spring with that same spirit.
In service and with gratitude,
Howard High
President, Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA)
Operation Tomodachi Commemoration and Alliance in Focus
Los Angeles, CA
Written by: Mr. David Miyoshi, JAVA General Counsel
On January 13, 2026, Ken Hayashi, Cliff Ishigaki, and I had the honor of attending a celebratory evening hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles. The event marked two milestones: the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami humanitarian response—Operation Tomodachi—and the 71st birthday of the Japan Self-Defense Forces. The gathering brought together a remarkable cross-section of civic leaders, diplomats, and senior military officers from both the United States and Japan.
The program featured a keynote address by retired U.S. Navy Admiral Patrick Walsh, followed by remarks from Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. Their messages reflected both gratitude for past cooperation and resolve for the challenges ahead.
Pictured from left are Brigadier General “Deebo” Dolberry, Assistant Commander of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing; Kenneth Hayashi, a former U.S. Army combatant and Vietnam veteran; myself, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer and Vietnam Veteran; Clifford Ishigaki, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer and Vietnam veteran; and Captain Nick of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
While the evening was festive and warm, it also carried strategic weight. The discussions underscored the renewed emphasis by the Trump and Takaichi administrations on strengthening the U.S.–Japan military alliance amid growing concern over China’s expanding hegemonic ambitions, particularly with respect to Taiwan and the broader Asia-Pacific region. It was a reminder that shared history, sacrifice, and friendship continue to shape a partnership essential to regional stability.
USS Daniel Inouye Tour
Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
Written by: Mark Nakagawa, JAVA Executive Council
On 27 January 2026, members of JAVA and the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans were invited to tour DDG-118, U.S.S. Daniel K. Inouye, one of the U.S. Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke destroyer. A gracious invitation from the commanding officer of the ship, Commander Ryan Kelly enabled the group unfettered access to the ship and crew. The tour started at the bridge, the highest part of the ship where the vessel is steered. From the bridge, the XO of the ship highlighted the capabilities of the ship and the view of Pearl Harbor was spectacular. The view of the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, where World War II started for America and the U.S.S. Missouri, where the surrender documents were signed, the view from the bridge was an appropriate. From the bridge, the group moved to the galley, the dining facility where a tribute to the late senator and heroics of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team were prominently highlighted. Imagine a naval vessel honoring the heroics and legacy of an Army unit, it was dignified and touching.
From the galley, we had the opportunity to visit the Combat Information Center, the operation center of the ship. In the CIC, we were briefed about the destroyer’s capabilities. The tour moved to the stern (back) of the vessel where two helicopter hangers are located. From the stern, we moved to the bow (front) of the ship where the 5” gun is prominently adorned with Hawaiian inspired themes. According to the XO, a Hawaiian priest blessed the effort. We ended our tour with group pictures.
A truly memorable tour, we wish to thank the officers and crew of the U.S.S. Daniel K. Inouye for their hospitality. It was truly an exhilarating experience to tour an active war ship, named in honor of Hawaii’s son. The crew are indoctrinated about the legacy of Senator Inouye and the valiant heroics of the 442nd RCT and are proud to serve on the vessel.
“GO FOR BROKE”
For more information about the USS Daniel Inouye, please visit: https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/ddg118/
“I Am An American: The Nisei Soldier Experience” Grand Opening
San Francisco, CA
Written by: Mark Nakagawa, JAVA Executive Council
On February 20, 2026, a three-year effort culminated at the Military Intelligence Service (MIS) Historic Learning Center in the Presidio of San Francisco, CA. The “I am an American” exhibit opened beginning an eleven city, five-year tour. JAVA Executive Committee member, LTC(R) Mark Nakagawa, attended the ribbon-cutting opening ceremony. Among the dignitaries and stakeholders in attendance were: retired U.S. Army General Eric K. Shinseki, 34th U.S. Army Chief of Staff and 7th U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs; Rosalyn Tonai, Executive Director of the National Japanese American Historical Society; Jean Fraser, CEO, Presidio Trust; Paul Morando, Director, National Museum of the United States Army; Charles Bowery, Executive Director, U.S. Army Center of Military History; Christine Sato-Yamazaki, Executive Director, National Veterans Network; Tammy Call, Founding Director Emeritus, National Museum of the United States Army; retired Brigadier General Burt Thompson, President, The Army Historical Society.
The exhibit was spearheaded by the National Veterans Network in collaboration with the National Museum of the U.S. Army and the Army Historical Foundation. The exhibit honored the historic and honorable service of the Nisei Soldiers of World War II – the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team in the European Theater and the Military Intelligence Service (MIS) in the Pacific Theater. Additionally, the experience of incarceration of over 120,000 persons of Japanese ancestry was depicted throughout the exhibit. This emotionally powerful display will move to Honolulu, Hawaiʻi in October 2026 to March 2027. Following Hawaii, the exhibition will travel to the following locations:
Oregon (April–October 2027)
Los Angeles (November 2027–May 2028)
Utah (June–December 2028)
Colorado (January–June 2029)
Minnesota (September 2029–March 2030)
Texas (April–October 2030)
Illinois (November 2030–May 2031)
Georgia (June–September 2031)
New York (October 2031–January 2032)
JAVA Memorial Scholarships 2026 — 14 Awards Totaling $33,000
For more information: Please visit our Scholarship Page at https://java-us.org/scholarship/
28th Annual Freedom Walk
2026 Day of Affirmation Preview and Seeking Support
Washington, D.C.
Written by: Bob Vokac, JAVA EC
The 80th Anniversary of the Day of Affirmation will be commemorated on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This milestone anniversary offers us a rare and meaningful opportunity to honor history, service, and sacrifice on a truly national stage. At a time when the values of loyalty, citizenship, and constitutional principles continue to be tested, the Day of Affirmation reminds us of the courage it took for Japanese Americans to stand for those ideals even when their own rights were denied.
Our plans for this year’s observance are ambitious and exciting. The event will include a public ceremony on the White House Ellipse, bands, military units, distinguished guest speakers, honored VIPs, and a picnic-style luncheon and entertainment at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy in Washington, DC. It promises to be a memorable day of remembrance and celebration.
To bring this vision to life, we need your help. This event will only succeed through the dedication and generosity of volunteers. Whether you can assist with planning, logistics, day-of support, or behind-the-scenes coordination, there is a place for everyone, and no experience is needed. Volunteers will play a vital role in making this historic anniversary possible.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Bob Vokac, at [email protected]. To assist with planning, we kindly ask that interested volunteers reach out as soon as possible.
In addition, ambitious plans require adequate funding. We are seeking a member willing to take the lead on fundraising, with the goal of securing corporate sponsorships to help offset event costs. The fundraising lead will work closely with JAVA President High to develop and carry out a clear, achievable strategy.
If you have questions or would like to discuss how you can help, please contact JAVA President High, Bob Vokac, or Antoinette Phelps. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the Day of Affirmation is not only remembered but powerfully carried forward for future generations.
Upcoming JAVA Events
Saturday, March 28, 2026. Freedom Walk. National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During WWII, Washington, D.C.
Thursday, April 30, 2026. Memorial Scholarship Application Deadline. 11:59 PM, ET.
Sunday, May 24, 2026. 78th Annual Memorial Day Service. Arlington National Cemetery, VA.
Saturday, July 18, 2026. 7th Annual Day of Affirmation. The Ellipse (Tentative), President’s Park, Washington D.C. Luncheon at National Museum of the U.S. Navy.
Saturday, July 25, 2026. JAVA Memorial Scholarship Ceremony. Virtual. 3:00 PM ET.