LITTLE TOKYO : Exhibit Seeks Nikkei Vets’ War Medals

Military medals belonging to Nikkei (Japanese American) veterans of World War II are being sought for an exhibit at the Japanese American National Museum.

Curators hope to collect enough medals for a display to symbolize the achievements of Nikkei veterans as part of an exhibition called “Fighting for Tomorrow: Japanese Americans in America’s Wars.”

Kaoru Oguri, exhibit curator, said the accomplishment of Nikkei veterans is particularly significant since many Japanese Americans were being held in concentration camps during the war. On Nov. 8, a day before the exhibit opens, a celebration will feature high-ranking Japanese American military officials, Nikkei veterans, and elected state and national officials of Japanese American descent. The event, which is expected to draw 8,000 people, will be at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

For information on loaning or donating medals, call (213) 625-0414, Ext. 266. For information on veterans activities, call (213) 625-0414.