Title
Janet Brown and Susan Hardwick oral history interview for William Hardwick, Part 1 of 2, September 11, 2007
Description
Janet Brown Hardwick and Susan Hardwick come from a family of men who serves their country. Their great-grandfather serves in the Civil War, and their father, Bill Hardwick, is part of the 36th Infantry Regiment during World War Two. Following their father's passing, the Hardwick sisters embark on a journey to thank the heroes who save their father, in the Lost Battalion rescue.
The journey being when Janet watches a television special on the 442nd. After researching, Janet corresponds with a Nisei veteran, and Janet's thank you letter becomes published.
On a holiday trip, the Hardwick sisters visit the Japanese American Memorial in Washington D.C. and leave a photo of their father with a thank you note. This gesture opens the door to networking with more Nisei veterans and learning about the Nisei legacy. Furthermore, an invite to the 442nd reunion.
Although Janet and Susan's father did not discuss his wartime experience much, he did express his gratitude and admiration for the 442nd. He says the 442nd are the only ones who can get the job done and rescued the Lost Battalion.
Janet and Susan talk about sharing the history of the Japanese Americans with their family and future generations. The heroic actions of the 442nd save their father's life and gave them valuable time together before his passing.