The Story of the 100th Infantry Battalion and its campaign in Italy is one of Hawaii’s strongest connections to Italy.  The 100th Infantry Battalion was formed during WWII after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.  Made up primarily of Japanese American soldiers in the 298^th and 299^th Infantry Regiments  of the federalized Hawaii National Guard.  fought in all the major battles in Italy from their landing in Salerno through the historic battles of Monte Cassino and Anzio.  They were part of the breakout from Anzio leading to the liberation of Rome.  When the 442nd Regimental Combat Team entered the European Theater of Operations (ETO) in late June 1944, it joined the battle-tested 100^th IB,  together they are one of the most decorated units in the American military with medals from the U.S., Italy and France.  Known as the “Purple Heart Battalion” a medal awarded for combat injuries, their motto was “Remember Pearl Harbor”.   During the presentation of the Presidential Unit Citation, President Truman said: “You fought not only the enemy, but you fought prejudice – and you have won.'

Please join us in in retracing their movements through Italy as guests of the 100^th Battalion organization in their “Club 100” hall and hear speakers talk about the challenges the 100^th Battalion faced.

Guest speakers include:

Janice Sakoda: Writer of the memoirs of her father who served in the 100th Battalion and was wounded in Italy. Read her travel story published by the Hawaii Herald on retracing the 100th Battalion in Italy.

Isami Yoshihara: Veteran, club historian, and the historical resource for the 100th Battalion. His encyclopedic knowledge of the History of the 100th Battalion allows him to be the resource person and guide for visitors to the hall.

Michael Malaghan: Author, Historian, Researcher. His latest book  "A Question of Loyalty", a part of his "The Picture Bride” Trilogy of historical novels address the central challenge of the Japanese immigrant experience. The struggle to prove their loyalty to a doubtful country wary of their presence. https://mikemalaghan.com/

Parking: Ala Wai Elementary School, next to Iolani School

Note: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment.

Questions: Please contact info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.