Now their experience is being brought to light at Bishop Museum. There’s also a congressional gold medal at the heart of it all.
Glenn Masunaga takes a long look into his past. This new exhibit reminds him of when he was 19 years old.
"I got a love letter from President Roosevelt. You are cordially invited to serve in the American army," said Glenn Masunaga, World War II veteran.
Like so many others, including Yoshinobu Oshiro, he gladly went.
"There’s a Japanese term…your loyalty to your country of your birth," said Yoshinobu Oshiro, World War II veteran.
Both World War II veterans were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal two years ago. That medal is being displayed at the Bishop Museum for the next six weeks. The showcase is part of a new exhibit featuring the Nisei experience in Hawaii.
"At times, especially when the war started, were very tense and very emotional," Oshiro said.
Visitors will see the hardships that the second generation Japanese experienced and the sacrifices their parents made to immigrate here. Working for just nine dollars a month on the plantation, it was a passport to a new life for themselves, and their children.
"Maybe it’s an eye-opener for many of the people that will be visiting the museum," Oshiro said.
It will also tell the story of the Nisei soldiers who showed an unconditional commitment to their country, and paved the way for so many.
"My mother country, America, was good to me. Gave me a G.I. Bill, a chance to study, and so as a result, to this day I’m still grateful and loyal to my mother country," Masunaga said.
The exhibit will have a grand opening Saturday with free admission for kamaaina. It will continue until April 14.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
