Richard Watada oral history interview, part 2 of 6, May 2, 2004

Watada discusses his Father's personality. Synonymous with Japanese identity and values, there are responsibilities; however, Watada's Father different. As an Issei he speaks English and associates with younger people. This is culturally conflicting.

Due to Watada Father's criticism, he tends to be quiet and takes after his Mother's characteristics. At camp and in service is where Watada becomes more outgoing. When Pearl Harbor is attacked on December 7, 1941, Watada recalls the feelings of disbelief.

When executive Order 9066 is announce, there is a short amount of time for evacuation. Watada's Family sells most of their belongs and stores what they can at the church. The Watada family goes the Santa Anita Assembly Center and he describes the living conditions. After a one month at Santa Anita, the Watada Family goes to Idaho Falls to work on a sugar beet farm.

In 1942 the family goes to Amache. Watada recalls the weather being hot and the camp is surrounded by fence with armed guards in towers. The living space are divided into four units in each barrack.

video/m4v

0:29:27

2004OH0447_02_Watada

http://www.goforbroke.org/oral_histories/mp4/447-Watada-Richard-2.m4v

1923 Dec 21

Yes