Japanese Americans and World War II Japanese Americans in the military during World War II faced discrimination and racism, fought not only for freedom at home and abroad, but also to prove their loyalty to the United States. They have been disavowed by the Japanese government and the American people, who are simultaneously fighting two internal wars, trying to defeat aggression abroad and discrimination in the United States. Many Japanese Americans served in the United States armed forces in unbalanced numbers, although their allegiance was questioned after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941. Most served in the 442nd Separate Regimental Combat Team and the 100th Infantry Battalion, along with others play key roles as translators and interpreters. Before the war, Japanese Issei immigrants – or first-generation immigrants from Hawaii and Japan – migrated to the Pacific Northwest in the 1880s, when federal legislation required a new immigrant workforce after excluded any further Chinese immigration, also known as the “yellow peril”. Thousands of Issei helped build the Great Northern, Northern Pacific, Oregon Short Line, and other railroads in the Columbia River basin in the 1900s. Immigrants made up nearly half of the Oregon's railroad industry workforce. New irrigation projects emerged as soon as sugar beet production exploded in the West. The owners of the Utah and Idaho Company recruited the Issei as laborers on their farms, trading seasonal jobs with the railroads. Soon, Japanese immigrants spread throughout the Pacific Northwest to provide agricultural labor, but saw the industry as an opportunity to one day own their own farm. The Issei were initially accepted because they were a source of... .. middle of paper...... The Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA), is dedicated to maintaining and strengthening camaraderie among its members, in carrying on the memory and history of fallen comrades, and in preserving true allegiance to the Government of the United States. of America, and to uphold its Constitution and laws, and to maintain and extend the institutions of American liberty. The legacy of the Issei and Nisei is legendary, beyond their military successes, they gained full respect as well as opportunities for future races, religion and culture in all aspects. For many years their devotion to their country went unnoticed, until they overcame the twin challenges of prejudice through intrepid service and astonishing feats of courage, even against their own race. Their impact was revolutionary and opened doors for those seeking opportunity and freedom. This is their living legacy.