Papers and photographs, 1941-2002.

ArchivalResource

Toki, Akira R., 1916-. Papers and photographs, 1941-2002.

Papers and photographs, 1941-2002.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/85376146

Papers and photographs of Akira R. Toki, a member of the 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II. Wartime materials, including correspondence, military papers, and newspaper clippings, portray the ordeal Toki faced to enlist in the Army in the face of widespread discrimination against Japanese-Americans. They also document his distinguished service in the war that earned him a Purple Heart. A Madison law firm wrote a letter of support for Toki after he was picked up by police while driving home on furlough and his Japanese heritage raised suspicions. Research files, largely secondary sources, provide substantial history and insight into the Japanese-Americans who served in the 100th Infantry Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team. Magazine articles, newspaper clippings, and printed internet pages delve into the discrimination they faced during the war, touch upon their training at Camp McCoy in Wisconsin, describe their valorous service in Europe, and detail their general lack of recognition following the war that has only been addressed at the end of the twentieth century. The package for a Japanese-American World War II action figure, materials relating to the delayed awarding of Medals of Honor to members of the unit, and a unit marching song are of interest. Other materials reveal details about Toki's civilian life, from a middle school in Madison being named in his honor in 1992 to his decades of community volunteer work at a local hospital. Photographs include several shots of Toki in uniform during the war, and as a civilian afterward. An oral history interview, conducted by Wisconsin Public Television, is included among the videos and features Toki describing his military experiences.

Papers : 0.6 linear ft. (2 archives boxes) and.Photographs : (3 folders), and.Videorecordings : 8 videocassettes (720 min.) : sd., col. ; 1/2 in. and.Paper prints : (2 folders)

Wisconsin Veterans Museum Research Center