National Go For Broke Day

Celebrated on 04/05/2026

Quick Fact

National Go For Broke Day honors the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a segregated Japanese American unit that became the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history. Their motto 'Go for Broke' was a Hawaiian pidgin phrase meaning to risk everything, and the unit earned over 18,000 individual decorations.

Origins and Establishment of National Go For Broke Day

National Go For Broke Day is observed on April 5th each year, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a segregated unit composed primarily of Japanese American soldiers during World War II. The holiday was established to honor their motto "Go for Broke," which reflected their willingness to risk everything for their country despite facing discrimination and internment at home. The exact origins of the observance are unclear, but it has been promoted by veterans' organizations and community groups to ensure the legacy of the 442nd is remembered.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, National Go For Broke Day has evolved from a niche remembrance into a broader celebration of resilience and courage. Initially observed mainly by veterans and their families, it now includes educational programs, museum exhibits, and social media campaigns that highlight the unit's achievements. The day is often marked by ceremonies at the National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism in Washington, D.C., and at the Go For Broke National Education Center in Los Angeles. Despite its relatively low profile, the holiday serves as a reminder of the contributions of Japanese Americans and the importance of fighting prejudice.

Facts & General Observations

• The 442nd Regimental Combat Team earned 21 Medals of Honor, including 20 originally awarded as Distinguished Service Crosses that were later upgraded.
• The unit suffered over 9,000 casualties, with a casualty rate of approximately 314%, meaning many soldiers were wounded multiple times.
• The 442nd's most famous rescue mission, the "Rescue of the Lost Battalion," saved 211 Texan soldiers from the 36th Infantry Division in the Vosges Mountains of France, at the cost of over 800 casualties.

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