Joint 100/442 Memorial Service

September 28, 2008

100th and 442nd veterans pose with Major General Robert G.F. Lee at our Center.

The annual September memorial service was originally held by 100th Infantry Battalion veterans to remember the first of their ranks to be killed in action, in Italy on September 29, 1943.

The Center is once again privileged to host the service, which is now a joint commemoration with 442nd veterans.

This year's keynote speaker was Major General Robert G. F. Lee, who was appointed as the Adjutant General, State of Hawaii, on January 1, 2003. As the Adjutant General, he serves as director of a diverse organization which encompasses both the Hawaii Army and Air National Guard; the State Civil Defense; the State’s Office of Veterans Services; and the Youth Challenge Academy, a residential mentorship program for at-risk youths. In addition, he acts as the Governor’s advisor on Homeland Security issues.

General Lee updated veterans on the efforts of their namesake, the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment, which is attached to the Hawaii Army National Guard's 29th Brigade Combat Team, currently deployed in Iraq.

Our thanks to Maui's Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans for organizing and hosting the event. Special thanks to Jill Izumigawa-Ross, who chairs the event planning.