WASHINGTON–President George W. Bush recognized Nisei World War II veterans at the Asia Pacific American program held on May 10 at the East Room of the White House.

Sixteen Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) members were invited by the White House. At the event in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, President Bush also presented the nation’s highest honor for community service, the President's Volunteer Service Award, to six Asian Pacific Americans. 

Retired US Army Air Corps Technical Sergeant Ben Kuroki, Military Intelligence Service veterans Grant Hirabayashi, Grant Ichikawa and Paul Tani and 442nd Regimental Combat Team veterans Yeiichi Kelly Kuwayama and Terry Shima were given front row seats at the event.

Bush was effusive in his praise of the Japanese American veterans. After recognizing the presence of US Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao, former Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, the President’s Advisory Committee on Asian Americans and diplomats, he thanked the WWII veterans and Japanese American veterans. He said, “We are proud to have you here and thanks for the great example you’ve set for those who wear the uniform.  We’re really glad you are here.” The six Nisei veterans on the front row stood up, smartly saluted their commander in chief, as he returned the salute.

Kuroki, who received his invitation directly from the White House, traveled to this event from California. He was accompanied by daughter Julie Kuroki Cooney.  Kuroki said, “I was delighted and surprised to be invited by the White House for the Asian Pacific American program for the second time in two years. To receive recognition…so many decades later was truly incredible - an awesome honor rarely accorded to few Americans.  This time I was honored to be seated with five other Nisei veterans in the first row.  I had to fight like hell for the right to fight for my country and I now feel full vindication.”

The President said, “The story of Asian Pacific Americans is an important part of the American story. During the 19th century, Asian Pacific Americans endured great hardships, for example, to lay the tracks for our first transcontinental railroad. During times of war, Asian Pacific Americans have defended our nation with honor and courage. And during times of prejudice, Asian Pacific Americans have overcome discrimination to build strong and lasting communities in our country.”