2023: Japan America Society of Southern California Attends Unveiling of Sadao S. Munemori Memorial Square in Glendale, California
On December 9, the Japan America Society of Southern California was invited by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles to attend the public unveiling of the Sadao S. Munemori Memorial Square in the City of Glendale, California.
Representing the JASSC organization, JASSC Chair Frank Eguchi attended the event along with the Japan Business Association President & JASSC Board Member Masahiko Yamamoto.
Dignitaries in attendance included Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles Kenko Sone, Glendale Mayor Daniel Brotman, Glendale City Councilmembers, Ms. Yuko Kaifu of Japan House, Mr. Bill Fujioka of Japanese American National Museum, and Dr. Mitchell Maki of Go For Broke National Education Center among others, together with Mr. James Nakakihara, who is the grand nephew of Sadao S. Munemori.
The Glendale-born Munemori was the first Japanese American to be awarded the Medal of Honor during the World War II era. A dedicated soldier in the United States Army, his sacrifice saved fellow soldiers and broke the Gothic Line in Serravezza, Italy changing the outcome of the battle.
His selfless act fighting for his nation, his family, and generations of Americans whom he would never know, contributed to shattering stereotypes and discrimination of Japanese Americans prevailing at the time.
As an organization with mission to build Japan-America relationships, the JASSC was honored to be present at this important ceremony with dignitaries from both sides of the Pacific.
