[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 105 (Wednesday, June 16, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E651]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                           GO FOR BROKE STAMP

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 16, 2021

  Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the toughness 
and resiliency of the Japanese American soldiers of the four forty-
second regimental combat team during World War II. Men and women who 
stepped up to fight for American prosperity while their families were 
simultaneously forced into confinement camps.
  This stamp, which displays their motto ``Go For Broke,'' honors the 
patriotism Japanese American soldiers exemplified despite the betrayal 
they faced at home. Under these charged circumstances, the 442nd proved 
itself as one of the most decorated unit of its size and length of 
service in the entire history of the U.S. Military.
  As a community with a shared, and at times, painful history, it is 
important to have a symbol. A national symbol of perseverance.
  Many Americans don't know the stories of their own family tree . . . 
they likely don't know the bravery of the Japanese American soldiers 
during WWII, soldiers of the 442nd and others, who helped save our 
country while our own government was tearing apart our families.
  The stamp will shine a light on this chapter of history. And to teach 
that we are all Americans. To see the United States soldier's face on 
the stamp, an Asian American face.
  This stamp is also the symbol of the tireless efforts of three 
wonderful women--FUSA Takahashi, AIKO King and CHIZ Ohira, who truly 
drove the effort to make this a reality.
  The story behind the creation of this stamp speaks to the dedication 
and strong fabric of the Japanese American community. This was a 
community-led effort, started over 15 years ago, that brought together 
many generations. I saw up close how hard it was to convince their 
fellow colleagues that this is important, to work with the community, 
to talk to their legislators.
  Just earlier this month, I had the pleasure to see its unveiling in 
Sacramento and speak to Fusa about the importance of this community 
symbol. We all shared our stories from that chapter of time.
  I know that many families who were incarcerated did not tell their 
stories once they were allowed back home. It was painful to be 
incarcerated, to live behind barbed wire and lose your homes, 
businesses and even loved ones.
  We remembered when our community stood up and shared our painful past 
with Congress and across the country, fought for redress and the Civil 
Liberties Act. We recounted the many efforts of educating our neighbors 
and our children, to remind them that we are everyday Americans and 
what happened was wrong.
  And now, recently, we understand how important it is to continue to 
teach about our history because people are hurting, especially with the 
horrific events that have targeted the AAPI community. Looking at the 
past, one thing we've learned is that we have to stand up for each 
other.
  As we continue to strive to become a more tolerant nation, we must do 
our part in overcoming societal wrongs, and we must also remember the 
strength of our nation when we come together toward a shared goal.
  The Go For Broke Stamp is a symbol of education, of healing, and of 
community. The Japanese American experience is a vital piece of 
American history, and in order to have a stronger democracy, we must 
lift each other up and tell our stories.
  I am glad that this stamp will serve as a reminder of the Japanese 
American story, and the bravery and patriotism of these American 
heroes.

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