442nd Regimental Combat Team

The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, composed primarily of second-generation Japanese Americans (Nisei), holds a unique and distinguished place in U.S. military history. Activated during World War II, in response to the War Department’s call for volunteers, over 12,000 Nisei answered, despite the internment of their families back home. After assembling at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, for intensive infantry training, they adopted the motto, “Go for Broke,” symbolizing their fearless commitment to battle.

The 442nd fought with exceptional bravery in the European Theater, particularly in Italy, southern France, and Germany. They joined forces with the 100th Infantry Battalion, a Nisei unit that had already proven its mettle in combat. Together, they became the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history. Their heroism is immortalized by the unit’s achievements, including seven Presidential Unit Citations and 21 Medals of Honor, while over 4,000 Purple Hearts and 4,000 Bronze Star Medals attest to the courage and sacrifices of these soldiers. In 2010, their extraordinary contributions were further recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal.

Additionally, Japanese Americans who served in the Military Intelligence Service (MIS) played a critical role during the war, working as translators and interpreters in the Pacific Theater. These Nisei soldiers provided valuable intelligence, including translating enemy documents and interrogating prisoners, which greatly contributed to the U.S. military’s success in the Pacific.

Beyond their battlefield achievements, the 442nd and MIS helped shatter harmful stereotypes and challenge the prejudice faced by Japanese Americans, both during and after the war. Their contributions not only altered perceptions but also paved the way for greater acceptance of Japanese Americans in the post-war era.

In a testament to their bravery, Governor John Connally of Texas declared the members of the 442nd RCT honorary Texans in 1962, in recognition of their heroic rescue of the Lost Battalion of the Texas National Guard during the Vosges Campaign in 1944. Their legacy continues through the 100th Battalion/442nd Infantry Regiment, which remains the only infantry unit in the Army Reserve today.

The 442nd’s contributions to U.S. military efforts and civil rights demonstrate their enduring impact on American history.