Saturday, August 15, 2015 – Go For Broke
Honoring the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and its rescue of the “Lost Battalion”
Join us as we welcome four special guests, who will each present different aspects of this compelling story!
The 442nd Regimental Combat Team (442 RCT), formed in 1943, was a segregated U.S. Army unit composed mostly of Nisei soldiers (second generation Japanese Americans). Initially engaged in Italy, the 442 RCT became a formidable and well-respected fighting unit. “Go For Broke” was its motto. For its size and the length of service, the 442 RCT became the highest decorated unit in U.S. Army history with 21 Medal of Honor awards.
On October 24, 1944, the 1st Battalion of the 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Division (originally the Texas National Guard), became surrounded and trapped by German forces in the Vosges Mountains, France. The 1st Battalion was deemed “lost” because repeated attempts by 2nd and 3rd Battalions of the 141st Infantry Regiment failed to rescue the 1st. Although the 442 RCT was merely attached and not officially part of the 36th Division, the Division Commander nevertheless ordered the 442 RCT to rescue the “Lost Battalion.” Even though the 442 RCT just came off bitter battles to liberate Bruyeres and Biffontaine and thus was severely short of manpower, the Nisei soldiers smartly saluted and valiantly pressed on. It was another opportunity to prove their loyalty to America after being classified as “enemy alien” after Pearl Harbor. On October 30, even after taking extremely heavy casualties, the 442 RCT broke through and rescued the “Lost Battalion.”
Our Four Guest Speakers:
Tom Graves (professional photographer/author of “Twice Heroes”) will present an overview of the 442 RCT and the importance of the battle to rescue the “Lost Battalion.” He will also comment on why this rescue lives on in history.
Franz Steidl (author of “Lost Battalions”) will give an introduction to the regional military situation, military motives behind the battle and its results. He will show a brief audiovisual presentation.
Al Tortolano (soldier of the 1st Battalion, 141 Infantry – the “Lost Battalion”) will talk about his side of the battle, what his fellow soldiers faced and knew, and what they went through before the rescue by the 442 RCT.
Lawson Sakai (soldier of E Company, 442 RCT) will talk about the Regiment itself – its origin and training. He will then focus on his role during the battle to rescue the “Lost Battalion.”
If you enjoy our Living Ship Days, and the variety of informative speakers and exciting activities we offer, please consider making a donation directed specifically to the Education Department. Contact the Donations Department by phone at: (510) 521-8448 x238 or email: Donations@uss-hornet.org. Thank you for your support!
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