300+ Attend Formal Dedication of Placer County Memorial
Honoring World War II Nikkei Soldiers & Internees

Temperatures hovered above 90 degrees, but that didn’t stop hundreds of people from showing up at the Bill Santucci Justice Center on Sunday, June 2, 2013, to witness the official unveiling of an incredible memorial honoring Japanese Americans who fought in World War II. 

“I am humbled to have people believe, trust, and invest in our dream and make this memorial a reality,” E. Ken Tokutomi, chair of the memorial project and treasurer of the Placer County Japanese American Citizens League, told the crowd of more than 300. “I would like to thank everyone for attending this dedication and supporting our effort to create this stunning memorial and may future generations never forget these heroes.”

As the general public sought the comfort and shade provided by the large canopy tent, the spotlight fell solely on the brave Japanese Americans (Nikkei) who risked their lives in World War II and their families who were forced into internment camps at the time.

The event opened with an uplifting and powerful performance by Placer Ume Taiko, followed by the Color Guard from Sacramento Nisei VFW Post 8985, who presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Tokutomi then updated those in attendance on the history of the four-year project and thanked all those involved in making the incredible memorial possible.

After inspiring words from a few keynote speakers, including Robert Nakamoto of the Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) and Carol Sato-Yamazaki chair of the National Veterans Network (NVN), the awe-inspiring bronze statue, black granite benches, black granite rocks with plaques, and commemorative bricks honoring donors and veterans were unveiled.

Among the VIPs who attended were 4th District of California Congressman Tom McClintock, State Senator Ted Gaines, Assembly Member Beth Gaines, 4th District California State Assembly member Mariko Yamada, Placer County Supervisor Jennifer Montgomery, Placer County District Attorney Scott Owens, several Placer County judges, mayors and city council members from Roseville, Rocklin, Loomis and Auburn, as well as veterans of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the 100th Battalion, and the Military Intelligence Service.

“This monument will stand for all time to memorialize the dedication, perseverance and fortitude of the Japanese American veterans and the community that supported them loyally and lovingly during those long, dark days,” wrote McClintock in a statement that was read by emcee Bill Tsuji. “We must never forget the price paid by these few that have purchased the liberty and freedom of so many.”

Dark days they were sure, but thanks to the new memorial, their bravery and loyalty will be a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Read article in Rafu Shimpo

See Memorial Scrapbook for a view of this project from its inception through completion

Visit the Congressional Gold Medal Exhibit at the DeYoung Museum, San Francisco

<---------- The Memorial is located at the Bill Santucci Justice Center, 10820 Justice Center Drive, Roseville, California

See Placer County WW II Roster

Thanks to Our Generous Contributors
                     (Donor List)

This permanent monument was funded through donations.

We are proud to honor all those who served in the 442nd RCT/ 100th Battalion and the Military Intelligence Service, as well as those individuals and families of Japanese ancestry who were forced into internment camps during World War II. We are developing educational materials to inform visitors and students of all ages.

Your contribution to Placer County JACL is tax-deductible.

Donate online (button at top right), or make checks payable to Placer JACL and mail to:

Thank you for your support!

Related News:

JACL Honors Japanese American Veterans

The Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) paid tribute to the Japanese American veterans who served in the armed forces during World War II and the Korean War.

In the organization’s 3rd Annual Gala Awards Dinner held September 15 in Washington D.C., the JACL bestowed their appreciation to veterans of all conflicts and persons who are currently serving in the military, and particularly veterans of the 100th Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team, the Military Intelligence Service (MIS), and others who served in regular units during World War II, and veterans of the Korean War.