Statement by U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein on the Awarding of the Congressional Medal of Honor to 21 Asian Pacific Americans who Served in the Armed Forces during World War II
June 23, 2000

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today congratulated 21 Asian Pacific Americans who are being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor at a ceremony at the White House.

The following is the text of Senator Feinstein’s statement:

“World War II represents some of the brightest and darkest chapters of American History. On one hand, the nation pulled together to fight the dual menaces of Germany and Japan, illustrating true courage and bravery. On the other hand, the government interned Japanese Americans in camps against their will, illustrating base prejudice and bigotry against Asian Pacific Americans.”

“But in this dark chapter, there is also a forgotten story. Among the men who fought bravely in Europe and the Pacific were thousands of Asian Pacific Americans who served honorably for our country. They were men like my colleague and good friend, Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, who fought in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team–the most highly decorated unit in the history of the U.S. armed forces–and who earned the Bronze Star during a battle in the Vosges Mountains.”

“Today, President Clinton will honor 21 of these forgotten men with the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest medal awarded in the United States. I congratulate these men for their service to our nation, for their courage on the battlefield and for shattering prejudices and misconceptions. They are truly American heroes.”

Among the honorees, were the following six Californians:

• Rudolph B. Davila – Vista, CA – Staff Sargent – 7th Infantry
For actions on May 28, 1944 at Artena, Italy.

• Joe Hayashi – Pasadena, CA – Private – 100th Infantry Battalion
For actions on November 29, 1943 at Cerasuolo, Italy.

• Kiyoshi K. Muranaga – Arleta, CA – Private, First Class – 442nd Infantry
For actions on June 26, 1944 at Suvereto, Italy. (Posthumous).

• William K. Nakamura – El Monte, CA – Private, First Class – 442nd Infantry
For actions on July 4, 1944 at Castellina, Italy. (Posthumous).

• Kazuo Otani – Fresno, CA – Staff Sargent – 442nd Regimental Combat Team
For actions on July 4, 1944 at Pieve di San Luce, Italy. (Posthumous).

• Ted T. Tanouye – Rolling Hills Estate, CA – Technical Sargent – 442nd Infantry
For actions at Molina A Ventoabbto, Italy. (Posthumous).