Jun 12, 2022

Celebrating The 80th Anniversary Of The 100th Infantry Battalion

In 2010, a Congressional Gold Medal was awarded to Japanese-American World War II veterans of the 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and the Military Intelligence Service. Courtesy of the Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Dear Members and Friends of JASH, On June 12, 1942, the 100th Infantry Battalion was formed to serve the U.S. military during World War II. During a time of distrust towards the Japanese, this segregated unit was originally comprised of Nisei soldiers from Hawaii. In the face of adversity, prejudice, and discrimination because of their heritage, the brave soldiers of the 100th earned the unit the nickname "The Purple Heart Battalion" as they risked life and limb for their country during their time in Italy. Today, on the 100th Infantry Battalion's 80th anniversary, we celebrate the bravery, selflessness, and courage of the Nisei soldiers of the "One Puka Puka." To the surviving veterans, even one million MAHALOs cannot express how grateful we are for everything you've done to protect Hawaii and the U.S. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your service.

100th Infantry soldiers receiving training in the use of grenades in 1943. Courtesy of the United States Army Center of Military History.

Celebrating the 100th Infantry Battalion

Please see the following ways local organizations are commemorating One Puka Puka's 80th anniversary.

Rebroadcast of "One Puka Puka"

Hawaii News Now in collaboration with the 100th Infantry Battalion’s 80th Anniversary Committee will re-broadcast “One Puka Puka,” a two-hour TV special that highlights the experiences of the unit during their time in Italy. "One Puka Puka" was produced, written, and narrated by late Hawaii journalist Bob Jones and first aired in 1992.

Mark your calendar for the air dates:

Thursday, June 16, at 7 pm on K5 Saturday, June 18, at 7 pm on KGMB Sunday, June 19 at 3 pm on KHNL Click here to read The Hawaii Herald's 1992 interview with Bob Jones and veterans from the 100th.

Presentation of Gifts to Surviving 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans

On Sunday, June 12, 2022, 100th Battalion descendants will make personal visits to the homes of several surviving veterans, all of whom are now nearing or over 100 years of age. They will present the veterans with several keepsake gifts, including congratulatory certificates from President Joe Biden, Gov. David Ige, the Hawaii State Legislature, and Hawaii’s congressional delegation. Gifts will also be presented to the surviving spouses of the veterans.

Youth Project-Based Learning Challenge

To commemorate the 80th anniversary, students from Hawaii's middle and high schools were invited to design innovating solutions to important issues facing our islands by applying the values, sacrifices, contributions, and accomplishments of the 100th Infantry Battalion Soldiers.