A Flicker In Eternity: World War II Internment Camps and Japanese-Americans.

In the spring of 1942, more than 110,000 Japanese Americans began to report, as directed, to centers from which they would be taken to internment camps.  Note that Hawaii, which was filled with Japanese-Americans, was ignored in this edict.  Although a few German-Americans and Italian-Americans were interned, this group was largely ignored.  Why?  Because they looked like the rest of us, and because

Theoretically done for the sake of national security, in hindsight it is clear that the motives for the program were less than honorable.  White farmers cheered as their competitors were hauled away.  In some cases, infants as young as one month old were subject to relocation.  It is hard to see how their forced internment could improve national security.  Some Americans with as little as 1/16 Japanese blood were interned.  In any event, there is not one documented case of espionage by a Japanese American.  Not one, even in Japan.

A recent documentary called A Flicker in Eternity tells the tale of Stanley Hayami, a bright and talented young Nisei (second generation Japanese American) whose family was interned.  When his country called for his service in the Army, he went, and he served in the famous 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which became one of the most decorated units in World War II.  I recommend the film which may be difficult to find.

By the way, the U.S. government offered reparations of $20,000 to each internee.  Some internees refused the payment.

I have done the math, and it appears that during my lifetime, if I am granted enough years, the last World War II veteran will pass away.  Join me in thanking those you know who were part of The Greatest Generation, while you can.