Jimmie Kanaya oral history interview, September 2, 2001

Kanaya begins with his family history, his father's immigration to Portland, family occupations and education, as well as attending Japanese language school. This is followed by a discussion of religion, growing up in Oregon, his professional…

He describes his basic training and transfer to Santa Barbara to work in a general hospital, his work as a firefighter and ward master, as well as the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Additional topics include the forced evacuation of his family from Oregon…

Kanaya discusses his arrival at Camp Shelby and experiences training other medics. From Camp Shelby, he was sent overseas from Virginia to Naples on a 30 day journey by ship that was memorable for bouts of seasickness.Finally, he focuses on his time…

Kanaya recounts treating the wounded and casualties during the Arno River Campaign, as well as the procedures for responding to a call for a medic and how to treat various wounds. He then discusses respect for a medic red cross flag on both sides and…

Kanaya describes being captured before the Rescue of the Lost Battalion, life as a POW, the numerous chances for escape, and surviving bombing raids on the trains. This includes a successful escape attempt and subsequent surrender after running out…

Kanaya recalls the German surrender and his journey home. He also discusses continuing his career in the Army during Korea and volunteering for Vietnam. He discusses the personal impact of a military career and expresses his thoughts on the…