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The Epic World War II Story of the Japanese American GIs Who Rescued the Lost

Fernando Pessoa

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Published in Honor Before Glory: The Epic World War II Story Of The Japanese American GIs Who Rescued The Lost Battalion

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In the annals of World War II, the Japanese American soldiers of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team stand as towering figures of courage, resilience, and sacrifice. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice at home, these brave men volunteered to fight for their country, proving their unwavering loyalty and patriotism. Their remarkable story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of redemption.

Origins and Training

The 100th Infantry Battalion was formed in 1942, shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, as a segregated unit composed entirely of Japanese Americans. The soldiers hailed from Hawaii and the West Coast, where they had endured the trauma of mass incarceration in internment camps. Despite the hardships they faced, these men were determined to prove their worth on the battlefield.

Honor Before Glory: The Epic World War II Story of the Japanese American GIs Who Rescued the Lost Battalion

by Scott McGaugh

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	306 pages

The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, also known as the "Go for Broke" Regiment, was activated in 1943 and consisted of Japanese American soldiers from across the United States. The regiment's motto, "Go for Broke," reflected their willingness to risk everything to achieve victory.

Both units underwent rigorous training at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, where they honed their skills in combat, marksmanship, and survival. The soldiers endured harsh conditions, including sweltering heat and torrential rains, but their resolve never wavered.

Into the Heart of Combat

In September 1943, the 100th Infantry Battalion was deployed to the battlefields of Italy. They fought their way through rugged terrain and fierce enemy resistance, proving their mettle in combat. Their actions earned them the respect of their fellow soldiers and the admiration of military leaders.

In June 1944, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team arrived in Italy and joined the 100th Infantry Battalion in combat. Together, they fought in some of the war's most brutal campaigns, including the Battle of Anzio and the Battle of Monte Cassino. The soldiers of the 442nd distinguished themselves with their unwavering determination and their ability to overcome adversity.

The Rescue of the Lost Battalion

In October 1944, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team was tasked with a perilous mission to rescue the 1st Battalion of the 141st Infantry Regiment, known as the "Lost Battalion." The Lost Battalion had been surrounded and cut off by German forces in the Vosges Mountains of France.

The 442nd accepted the mission without hesitation, despite the daunting odds. They launched a daring assault through dense forests and treacherous mountain passes, facing intense enemy fire and heavy casualties. For 11 days, the Japanese American soldiers fought their way to the Lost Battalion, providing food, water, and medical assistance.

The rescue of the Lost Battalion was one of the most heroic episodes of World War II. The 442nd's actions saved the lives of over 200 stranded soldiers and earned them the eternal gratitude of the American people.

Legacy and Impact

The Japanese American soldiers of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team returned home as heroes. They had proven their valor in combat, shattered stereotypes, and helped to pave the way for the eventual desegregation of the US military.

The story of these brave men continues to inspire generations of Americans. It is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the power of redemption, and the importance of fighting for what is right.

In 2000, the Congressional Medal of Honor was awarded to 21 Japanese American soldiers for their actions in World War II. This recognition was long overdue and served as a testament to the extraordinary contributions of these men.

The story of the Japanese American GIs who rescued the Lost Battalion is an epic tale of courage, sacrifice, and redemption. These soldiers faced discrimination and prejudice at home, but they fought for their country with unwavering loyalty and determination. Their actions on the battlefield proved their valor and shattered stereotypes, leaving an everlasting legacy of honor and inspiration.

Honor Before Glory: The Epic World War II Story of the Japanese American GIs Who Rescued the Lost Battalion

by Scott McGaugh

4.7 out of 5