84th Anniversary Banquet honoring the formation of the 100th Infantry Battalion

The 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans 84th Anniversary Banquet was a wonderful afternoon of remembrance, fellowship, and celebration as members, families, friends, and supporters gathered to honor the legacy and enduring spirit of the “One Puka Puka.” We extend our sincere mahalo to everyone who attended and helped make this year’s event such a success.

Honoring our known living 100th Infantry Battalion veterans. Pictured above are Enoch Haruo Kanaya (C), Ikuro “Ike Mano” Kawahara (A), Dr. Takashi Manago (A), Yukitsugu Nishimura (A), and Masaharu “Bull” Saito (B).

Approximately 180 guests joined us for the celebration, including four special guest widows — Dot Tamashiro [widow of Harold Tamashiro (HQ)], Kazue Sato [widow of Robert Sato (A)], Jeanette Akamine [widow of Bernard Akamine (B)], and Katherine Fujikawa [widow of Isaichi Fujikawa (C)] — whose presence served as a meaningful reminder of the sacrifices, service, and lasting impact of the soldiers and families who have shaped the Battalion’s rich history. It was an honor to recognize and celebrate them as part of this special occasion.

Dot Tamashiro [widow of Harold Tamashiro (HQ)], Kazue Sato [widow of Robert Sato (A)], Jeanette Akamine [widow of Bernard Akamine (B)], and Katherine Fujikawa [widow of Isaichi Fujikawa (C)] attend the 84th Anniversary Banquet. (Photos courtesy: Clyde Sugimoto [nephew of Nolan Miyazaki (B)] and Ann Kabasawa [daughter of Raymond Nosaka (B)])

Guests enjoyed an outstanding meal while reconnecting with old friends and making new memories. The afternoon was highlighted by an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Adam Jansen, State Archivist of Hawaii - Hawaii State Archives, whose remarks were both engaging and thought-provoking. His message resonated with attendees and provided meaningful reflections on leadership, service, and the importance of preserving our shared history for future generations.

[Left Photo] Keynote speaker Dr. Adam Jansen with his wife, Miki, and 100th IBV President Kathi Hayashi. [Center Photo] Club 100 Honorary Member General (Ret.) David Bramlett with his wife, Nora. [Right Photo] Senator Les Ihara Jr. (left) and Senator Carol Fukunaga (right) attend the banquet. (Photos courtesy: Ann Kabasawa and Clyde Sugimoto)

Mahalo to Governor Josh Green, M.D., for the following letter of recognition of the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans, which reads in part:

"On this occasion, we pause to remember and honor the extraordinary legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion - an elite unit forged in valor, duty and sacrifice. To the veterans of the 100th, past and present, I offer my profound gratitude. Your unwavering dedication, patriotism and courage in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark on our nation's history. You answered the call to serve, even when your loyalty was questioned at home. On distant battlefields during World War II, you nobly fought together, and stood shoulder to shoulder, defending the ideals of freedom and democracy. The sacrifices of those who did not return are not forgotten. We honor their memory and mourn their loss, knowing that their courage helped shape the nation we are today.

The legacy of the Nisei soldiers lives on through our veterans who continue to embody the principles of honor, perseverance and quiet strength. Their story is not just one of wartime heroism - it is a testament to resilience, integrity and the enduring promise of America."

Special Message received for the 84th Anniversary Banquet from Hawai‘i Governor Josh Green, M.D., in recognition of the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans.

Another exciting milestone for this year’s banquet was the successful use of our new audiovisual system. The upgraded technology enhanced the overall program experience, allowing presentations, photos, and audio to be shared more clearly and effectively throughout the afternoon. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this improvement possible and contributed to a smooth and enjoyable event.

Members, family and friends of HQ/Medics Chapters (on left) and Able Chapter (on right), at the banquet. (Photos courtesy: Ann Kabasawa and Clyde Sugimoto)

Members, family and friends of Baker Chapter (top), Charlie Chapter (bottom left) and Dog Chapter (bottom right), at the banquet. (Photos courtesy: Ann Kabasawa and Clyde Sugimoto)

Once again, thank you to everyone who attended this year’s banquet. Your participation and support help ensure that the stories, traditions, and legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion continue to be honored and shared with future generations. We look forward to seeing you next year for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the 85th Anniversary of the 100th Infantry Battalion.

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This article has been reprised from the July 2026 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans "Puka Puka Parade" article, written by Kelly Imada [granddaughter of Haruto Soma (Co. C)]. Back issues of the Puka Puka Parade can be viewed online, courtesy of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa eVols digitial repository — the most recent issues available to the public can be viewed here: https://hdl.handle.net/10524/86866. For more about the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans Puka Puka Parade, please visit https://www.100thibv.org/post/puka-puka-parade-newsletter.