[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 82 (Monday, June 26, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1111]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING GEORGE SAKATO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 26, 2000

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, today I honor George Sakato, a 
distinguished constituent of Denver and a member of the historic Nisei 
American Legion Post 185. Today, Mr. Sakato received the Congressional 
Medal of Honor from President Clinton for his valorous efforts during 
World War II. Under heavy fire, Mr. Sakato led a charge against, and 
victoriously overcame, an enemy bunker. He and the troops he led 
exacted a heavy toll on the enemy.
  As a Japanese-American, Mr. Sakato initially experienced some 
difficulty enlisting in the military. After being denied by the Army 
Air Corps, Mr. Sakato enlisted in the 100th Battalion/442nd Regimental 
Combat Team, which was composed primarily of Japanese-Americans. 
Because the soldiers of this regiment demonstrated their unending valor 
and courage on the battlefield, the battalion became the most highly 
decorated unit in the U.S. military. After facing discrimination as a 
Japanese-American, it is truly appropriate that Mr. Sakato has been 
recognized for his superlative contribution to the security of our 
nation. My only regret today is that this honor was not bestowed on Mr. 
Sakato a long time ago.
  We must always take time to honor our veterans, especially those who 
went above and beyond the call of duty in order to assure freedom and 
democracy. On behalf of the people of Denver, I would like to express 
my gratitude for Mr. Sakato's service and my congratulations to him on 
receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor.

                          ____________________