Minori Sueda oral history interview, June 22, 2003

Minori Sueda talks about his family and early life growing up in Redondo Beach and Torrance, California. He also talks about feeling like a second class citizen as a Japanese-American and his high school experience.

Minori Sueda recalls his reaction to Pearl Harbor and joining the military. He also talks about volunteering for the 232nd Combat Engineer Unit, basic training, and additional engineer training at Camp Shelby.

Minori Sueda recalls his terrible sea voyage to the European theater and getting lost in Rome. He speaks about some of the casualties the unit experienced and the role of an engineer unit.

Sueda tells of how he was injured by shrapnel and his recovery. He also recounts the difficulties in getting gasoline and fuel for the company and the Bruyeres-Biffontaine campaign.

Sueda explains the importance of having good officers for keeping trouble out of the company and for saving lives. He also recounts the end of the war, being stuck in Italy, and finally going home.

Minori Sueda talks about his job post-war and how he met his wife. He explains why he thinks it is important for people to know the role of Japanese-America soldiers in World War II.