Nisei Soldiers of World War II Congressional Gold Medal
Issued in 2010
2010 Nisei Soldiers Of World War II Bronze Medal Reverse
2010 Nisei Soldiers Of World War II Bronze Medal Obverse
Coin Description
Reverse
Depicts the insignias of the 100th INF BN, 442nd RCT and MIS. The 100th INF BN insignia features a taro leaf and a traditional Hawaiian helmet, both of which are emblematic of the unit's Hawaiian roots. The "Go for Broke" Torch of Liberty shoulder patch represents the 442nd RCT. The MIS insignia is represented by a sphinx, a traditional symbol of secrecy. The inscriptions on the outer rim are the titles of the three units represented on the medal. In addition, the years “1941–1946,” the defined years of World War II according to the Department of Defense, are inscribed in the upper right field of the medal. The three stars positioned along the border represent the three units being honored.
Obverse
Features Nisei (second generation Americans of Japanese ancestry) soldiers from both the European and Pacific theaters. The 442nd RCT color guard is depicted in the lower field of the medal.
The Story
This medal was awarded collectively to the 100th Infantry Battalion (INF BN), 442nd Regimental Combat Team (RCT), and Military Intelligence Service (MIS) of the U.S. Army in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II. Their commitment and sacrifice—in the face of a two-fronted battle against discrimination at home and fascism abroad—demonstrate a highly uncommon and commendable sense of patriotism and honor.
The bronze medal pictured is a duplicate of the Congressional Gold Medal.
2010 Nisei Soldiers Of World War II Bronze Medal Reverse
2010 Nisei Soldiers Of World War II Bronze Medal Obverse