NEWPORT BEACH — The World Affairs Council of Orange County presents a Veterans Day luncheon honoring Nisei soldiers on Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Legion Post 291, 215 15th St. in Newport Beach.
“Join us for a special Veterans Day celebration as we honor all our military veterans and highlight the remarkable contributions of the Nisei soldiers,” organizers said. “These second-generation Japanese American soldiers served with honor and distinction during World War II, despite facing immense challenges at home.”
The Nisei soldiers fought in Europe with the 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team, suffering heavy casualties in battles such as the rescue of the “Lost Battalion” of Texas in France’s Vosges Mountains. They earned thousands of decorations, including 21 Medals of Honor. Others served as translators and interpreters in Asia and the Pacific as well as the postwar U.S. occupation of Japan. In 2011, the Nisei soldiers were collectively honored with the Congressional Gold Medal.
The host will be ABC 7 Eyewitness News anchor David Ono…