LAKE COUNTY >> Veterans, patriots and history buffs will appreciate the new book donated to the Middletown library called “Twice Heroes” by Tom Graves. With portraits and personal interviews by the author, the book spotlights Nisei soldiers: Americans of Japanese descent who fought bravely in World War II and Korea during a time when they were not considered full US citizens. Facing the enemy overseas and prejudice back home, these women and men later were recognized for their sacrifice and awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, our nation”s highest civilian honor, in 2011.
“My goal was to put a name and a face to these brave soldiers so their stories would be remembered,” said Graves. “I didn”t learn about WWII Japanese American incarceration until 2001. Why isn”t this part of American history taught in our schools? I felt compelled to tell their stories.”
The author addressed the JACL general meeting as keynote speaker on the group”s 80th anniversary. Established in 1934, the group”s meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence followed, honoring the memory of Peter Masaoka, Leo Kikuchi and Joe Yasuda, local soldiers of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team who died in battle 70 years ago. Sebastopol”s Enmanji Memorial Hall, in which the meeting was held, is dedicated to these men.
Sonoma County Japanese American Citizens League (www.sonomacojacl.org) focuses on educating the public about the Japanese American experience, monitoring legislation affecting minority human and civil rights, addressing hate crimes and fostering Japanese American culture.
For details of Twice Heroes, by Tom Graves, see www.TwiceHeroes.com or check it out at the library.
