Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans (FFNV) – Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans (FFNV)

Keep the Story Alive!

Japanese American veterans of World War II perpetuating the legacy of Nisei veterans.

Educating the Public!

Read the awesome story about Lawson Sakai.

Keep the Story Alive

Following the formal approval by the Mayor and City Council of Bruyères for the proposed Heroes of the Vosges Museum, a website was prepared that encourages cash donations and the offering of artifacts associated with both the 100th/442nd and the French Resistance. The Resistance played an important role in assisting the Nisei. Too many of these precious artifacts have already been lost to history as the children and grandchildren of the Nisei may be unaware of their historical importance.
Please go to vosgesheroes.org. There you can read the approved plan and contribute as you see fit. A form for donation artifacts can be downloaded from the site. If you have or know of others who have artifacts that can be loaned or donated to the museum, please have any questions directed to me at [email protected] or 916-233-8069.

MEMORIES OF LAWSON SAKAI

It is hard to believe that I have been Lawson’s friend for only 20 years. I feel as if I had known him for many decades.

In 2001, Morgan Hill Buddhist Community Center recognized and honored local Nisei veterans during its spring festival called Haru Matsuri. I was fortunate to meet Lawson, a well-respected veteran of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team (442nd RCT). Immediately, his distinguished appearance and demeanor impressed me.

Read More

Lawson Sakai's Last Visit to France

USS Hornet Museum

The USS Hornet Museum is now open on Saturday and Sunday until further notice. The Nisei Veterans’ Exhibit aboard the USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier Museum, Alameda, CA is normally open Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Questions? Please contact Brian Shiroyama at [email protected] or call (408) 896-1021 to learn of its current status.

USS Hornet Museum

The film is a fictional drama set in Hawaii about the PTSD experienced by a Nisei veteran over 50 years after war and the tension it causes with his family because he won’t talk about it with them. It’s a part of the Nisei veteran story that hasn’t been addressed in books or films that resonates with many.

It runs for 110 minutes and after the film, we’ll have a panel discussion with writer/director Eric Nemoto and two cast members who play the Nisei veterans, Dann Seki and Allan Okubo.

The showing is at the Gardena Cinema on November 15th at 12 pm, tickets are $17.

For any questions, contact: Byrnes Yamashita, [email protected]