Paul Bannai oral history interview, part 8 of 8, September 15, 2002

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Description

During wartime, Paul Takao Bannai receives correspondence from family and people he meets. Letters from his family wanting him to return home safely and reunite with the family. There are letters from his Army friends in Australia acknowledging his service. These letters are heartfelt and are meaningful. Therefore, mail is vital to the men in service.

Paul discusses what it means to be a Nisei soldier. Despite the Japanese Americans being classified as 4C, they wanted to serve their home country when they did not have to. The Nisei services show their bravery, loyalty, and patriotism than any other group.

The 100th/442nd Regimental Combat Team is the most highly decorated unit with the medals and honors they receive. Paul explains why the Military Intelligence Service (MIS) worked as individuals. There are approximately 5,000 MIS men overseas. As a result, it is very hard for anyone to be recognized. Moreover, the MIS duties are confidential and not publicized. The Nisei soldiers are different types of soldiers and should be recognized. They help shorten the war.

In Washington DC, there is a recognition monument with Nisei soldiers' names engraved on it. In spite of being discriminated against, placed in camp, and not considered American citizens to serve, the Nisei became the best soldiers in the United States military. The Nisei soldiers should be remembered for their contributions.

Identifier

2002OH0307_08_Bannai

Oral History Item Type Metadata

URL

http://www.goforbroke.org/oral_histories/mp4/307-Bannai-Paul-8.m4v

Date of Birth

1920 Jul 04

Location of Birth

Incarceration Facilities

War or Conflict

Branch of Service

Entrance into Service

Citation

Bannai, Paul: narrator, Nakaishi, Russell: interviewer, and Go For Broke National Education Center: publisher, “Paul Bannai oral history interview, part 8 of 8, September 15, 2002,” Japanese American Military History Collective, accessed October 15, 2024, https://ndajams.omeka.net/items/show/1053253.