A poignant chapter of World War II history will be brought to life on Thursday, May 15th at 7:00 PM when Dr. Gerry Iguchi presents a public history program titled, “Went for Broke: Japanese American Soldiers at Camp McCoy During WWII.”
The program will explore the experiences of the 100th Infantry Battalion, comprised mostly of Japanese American soldiers from Hawaii, during their training at Camp McCoy (now Fort McCoy) in the summer of 1942. During their six-month stay at Camp McCoy, the soldiers of the 100th not only underwent rigorous training but also forged meaningful connections with Sparta area residents. Local families extended their hospitality inviting the soldiers for home-cooked meals, church gatherings, and dances; as well as participating in sports together. A letter dated July 27, 1942 written by Private Thomas Higa to Ralph and Doris Hendersin of Leon illustrates the warm reception these soldiers received from many local families. Hyga writes, “I sure appreciate your showing me around the farm. I always wanted to see a farm on the mainland and all the different types of machinery…it was a great opportunity that would have never happened if I wasn’t in the army…it was the greatest enjoyment I’ve had since I arrived here.”
These interactions blossomed into lifelong friendships, continuing through subsequent generations. Several members of the 100th even married local women and made Wisconsin their home after the war.
Dr. Iguchi’s presentation will trace the 100th Battalion’s journey from their initial training at Camp McCoy through their distinguished service in Europe and their eventual unification with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. He will also delve into the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of the 100th's story highlighting its deep connection to the history of Camp McCoy and the surrounding Sparta community as a powerful testament to resilience and patriotism.
To accommodate a larger audience, this program will be held at the Sparta United Methodist Church, 210 N. Court St., not at the Local History Room. Parking is available in the Museum/Monroe County Parking Lot off Central Ave. Please use the K Street entrance.
Admission is free, with a suggested $1 donation to support future programming. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/mclhr or call 608-269-8680.
