April 5th is National Go For Broke Day. What’s that about? No matter our goal, we should give it our all and persevere despite all the odds. The phrase “go for broke” has roots in Hawaiian Pidgin, meaning to wager everything. Our research uncovers the history of this day. In World War II, the United States needed help from Japanese-Americans. The 442nd Regiment was a group of Japanese-Americans from Hawaii. They served as a single battalion that fought bravely in Italy, France, Germany, and southern parts of the Netherlands during 1944 and 1945. This regiment is considered the most decorated in United States military history. The end of the story: April 5, 1945. On that day, the first Medal of Honor recipient from this regiment died in action near Seravazza, Italy. Private First Class Sadao Munemori sacrificed his life for the men in his unit when they were pinned down by enemy fire. The unit continued in battle near Serravezza, Carrara, and Fosdinovo, Italy, until April 14, 1945. As a result of their actions, they received the Presidential Unit Citation for outstanding accomplishments in combat. The 442 nd Infantry Regiment was the most decorated unit of its size and length of service in World War II. The 442 nd RCT was awarded 21 Medals of Honor, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, 1 Distinguished Service Medal, 560 Silver Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier’s Medals, 4,000 Bronze Stars, and 486 Purple Hearts. Go for Broke Day is a day to give it your all and not care about the outcome.

National Go For Broke Day is observed annually on April 5!

While we don't know for sure what Private First Class Sadao Munemori did on this day, we do know that we should honor his memory. And we will.