[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 141 (Tuesday, October 31, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2036]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2036]]
                   WILLIAM KENZO NAKAMURA COURTHOUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JENNIFER DUNN

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 31, 2000

  Ms. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 5302, to name the United States 
courthouse in downtown Seattle as the ``William Kenzo Nakamura United 
States Courthouse.''
  It is important to pay tribute to a man who made such great 
contributions to our nation. Private First Class Nakamura was an 
outstanding American, and this is a fitting way to honor him for giving 
his life to protect our freedom.
  Pfc. Nakamura grew up in what is now the Chinatown International 
District in Seattle. He was studying at the University of Washington 
when he was moved with his family to an internment camp in Idaho. 
Despite this hardship, Pfc. Nakamura joined the 442nd Regimental Combat 
Team, which went on to become the most decorated military unit in 
history.
  On June 4, 1944, Pfc. Nakamura provided cover for a retreating 
platoon in Catellina, Italy, and was killed by enemy fire. At first, 
Nakamura and other soldiers of color did not receive national 
recognition for their heroic deeds. Finally, this June, Nakamura and 
other soldiers received the Medal of Honor.
  I believe naming this courthouse after Pfc. Nakamura is a fitting 
tribute for a man who defended his country and the freedoms we all 
enjoy. Pfc. Nakamura's valor and heroic actions should never be 
forgotten, and his dedication to his country--the United States--should 
be honored. I encourage all my colleagues to support this resolution.

                          ____________________