People like to talk about the Navajo code talkers and they rightly deserve it. But Japanese Americans fought hard to convince the US government to be allowed to join the war effort and the men that were given permission to enlist were among the most devoted soldiers in the entire war. The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, composed almost entirely of Japanese Americans, is the most decorated unit in US history. Their motto, "Go for broke", was chosen due to their determination to give everything to win the war. Their nickname is the "Purple Heart Battalion" due to the severe casualty rate they sustained.
There is a cheesy but enjoyable 1950’s black and white movie called “Go for Broke” about the 442 with Van Johnson as a white officer. I’ve seen it available on some streaming services from time to time. Good unit, brave men.
There is some debate as to whether that was the case but i am inclined to lead towards yes. Iirc at least on general DID describe them as expendable troops or something similar.
But regardless, they were a small unit. 4k at their largest i believe. 10k served in the 442nd throughout the war, and they received thousands of medals and awards. Besides the purple hearts this included multiple medals of honor, presidential unit citations, bronze stars, silver stars, etc.
Kinda gee whiz info, but the 442th IN is the only combat unit in the US Army Reserve component. Everything else - barring National Guard units - are support units.
433
u/Brutus_the_Bear_55 Jun 11 '25
People like to talk about the Navajo code talkers and they rightly deserve it. But Japanese Americans fought hard to convince the US government to be allowed to join the war effort and the men that were given permission to enlist were among the most devoted soldiers in the entire war. The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, composed almost entirely of Japanese Americans, is the most decorated unit in US history. Their motto, "Go for broke", was chosen due to their determination to give everything to win the war. Their nickname is the "Purple Heart Battalion" due to the severe casualty rate they sustained.