Eric Shinseki, former US Army Chief of Staff, who was appointed in 2008 by President Obama to serve in his cabinet as Secretary of Veterans Affairs, was the keynote speaker of our third annual benefit dinner.
Joining him at the podium was long-time colleague, General (Ret.) David Bramlett, who served as Commanding General of the US Army Forces Command. The generals spoke of duty, honor, and the contribution of the Nisei soldiers to providing opportunities for all.
General Shinseki and General David Bramlett
posed with all of the Nisei veterans. After
the photo was taken, the generals shook the hand of each veteran.
General Bramlett and General Shinseki pose
with Suguru Takahashi (right), one of the Nisei veterans who
participated in the famous Rescue of the Texas Lost Battalion.
They stand next to Suguru's larger-than-life wartime image.
The live auction which raised funds to purchase
major items for the Preschool was fast, furious and fun.
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Eric Shinseki speaking
at our benefit event
"You are all heroes of my generation. Time has not diminished your stature.
"So as we measure where we are today in Afghanistan and Iraq, 50 months after September 11, 2001, we cannot help but have a renewed respect for the intensity with which you fought, the decisiveness of your accomplishments, and the terrible price you paid in blood.
"Your example of honor and service have been a wonderful role model for generations after you. And especially for those of us who have served in uniform. I am personally indebted to you for the opportunities you gave me in my chosen profession. To compete, to earn my own measure of success.”
Shinseki told the audience that his formal portrait as the 34th US Army Chief of Staff now hangs in the Pentagon. He chose to wear an Army field uniform, and in the background there is a recreation of a mural by an Army artist of the rescue of the Lost Battalion. The original painting was one of just two that hung in his office during his tenure as Chief of Staff.
“The heroism of all of the Nisei veterans in battle is symbolized in this picture. It pays homage to those special boys who went to war to prove we are worthy of trust. The men of those legendary units will now always have a permanent place in the headquarters of the Department of the US Army.”
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