Vol. 57, No. 25, December 20, 1963. 48 pages. View this issue
Civil rights and the record of Nisei soldiers filled the front page of this 48-page holiday issue. National JACL President Pat Okura looked at 1963 as a big year for human rights, and Akiji Yoshimura wrote about the gap between America’s ideals and its practice. P.C. Staff reprinted a House tribute in which seventeen congressmen spent two hours praising Japanese American service in World War II, and reported on JACL’s commemoration at Arlington National Cemetery. Mike Masaoka welcomed Lyndon B. Johnson as the new President.
Inside are more pages on the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and the Military Intelligence Service Language School, and an account of what officials said about claims of sabotage at Pearl Harbor. State Senator Joseph A. Rattigan wrote about JACL’s continuing purpose. Chapter news included Long Beach’s 25th anniversary and year reports from Sonoma County and Seabrook. Holiday greetings fill 33 pages.
What’s in this issue
Commentary
- ’63: The Big Year for Human Rights, by Pat Okura, page 1. JACL National President Pat Okura reflects on the civil rights struggle in America and the importance of ending racial discrimination. He calls for broad community support for civil rights legislation and equality for all.
- The Gap Remains, by Akiji Yoshimura, page 1. Akiji Yoshimura argues that the gap between America’s ideals of equality and reality persists and has perhaps grown wider in 1963. He urges Americans to close this gap through civil rights action.
- State Senator Rattigan Addresses JACL on Its Role, by Joseph A. Rattigan, page 10. State Senator Joseph Rattigan addresses the Northern California-Western Nevada District Council on the continuing purpose of JACL. He argues the organization must remain active in civic responsibility despite its earlier success.
National
- 17 Congressmen Praise Nisei Military Service in House Tribute, by P.C. Staff, page 1. Seventeen congressmen spent two hours on the House floor praising Japanese American military service in World War II, an unprecedented gesture. Rep. George P. Miller organized the tribute, which was reprinted from the Congressional Record.
Military & Veterans
- JACL Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Nisei Military Service at Arlington, by P.C. Staff, page 1. JACL held commemorative services at Arlington National Cemetery on June 2, 1963, honoring Japanese Americans who served in World War II. The program included a wreath ceremony, a Battleship Maine tribute, and visits to the graves of 21 Nisei soldiers.
- Military Intelligence Service Language School Trains Nisei, by P.C. Staff, page 1. The article traces the founding and development of the Military Intelligence Service Language School, which trained Nisei linguists for the Pacific war. It describes curriculum, staffing, relocation to Camp Savage and Fort Snelling, and the contributions of graduates.
- Tributes to Nisei GIs Continued: Congressional Remarks on 442nd and Military Intelligence, by P.C. Staff, page 3. Congressional speeches and tributes honor Nisei soldiers of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and military intelligence. Speakers include Senator Inouye, Dillon Myer, Gen. Devers, Judge Aiso, and numerous representatives praising Japanese American valor.
Incarceration & Redress
- Antidote for Pearl Harbor Myths, by P.C. Staff, page 1. This article compiles official statements from the FBI, military intelligence, and government officials refuting claims of Japanese American sabotage and fifth column activity at Pearl Harbor and on the mainland. It cites Hawaii police, Secretary Stimson, and the Tolan Committee to debunk wartime myths.
JACL
- JACL Welcomes President Johnson, by Mike Masaoka, page 1. Mike Masaoka welcomes Lyndon B. Johnson as the new President, highlighting his congressional record and legislative experience. The article notes JACL’s hope that Johnson will advance civil rights and immigration reform.
Community
- Long Beach JACL Chapter Celebrates Silver Jubilee, by P.C. Staff, page 15. The Long Beach JACL chapter marks its 25th anniversary, tracing its history from prewar Issei leadership through postwar reactivation and its record-setting activities. Highlights include chapter of the year awards and youth programs.
- Seabrook JACL Chapter Activities, by P.C. Staff, page 21. Seabrook JACL held a recognition dinner honoring pioneer Nisei and hosted Congressman Milton Glenn and Mike Masaoka. The chapter also sponsored programs for youth and community members during the year.
- Sonoma County JACL Chapter’s Year in Review, by P.C. Staff, page 35. The Sonoma County JACL chapter summarizes its 1963 activities, including incorporation as a nonprofit, scholarship programs, a blood bank, and community events. Chapter leaders are credited for steady growth.
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