Congresswoman Lee Issues Statement on the Passing of Senator Daniel Inouye
Contact: Katherine Jolly, 510-763-0370
“Today our country has lost one of its most committed advocates for justice for all Americans.
“Senator Inouye was brilliant legislator, war hero, public servant and humanitarian. During his four years of service in the House of Representatives and 49 years in the Senate, Inouye represented Hawaii and our country with great honor and distinction.
“As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I truly appreciate Senator Inouye’s legacy of service and leadership. As the first Japanese-American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and later the first in the U.S. Senate, he was a trailblazer for Asian American politicians in our country.
“After serving as a volunteer in Pearl Harbor, Inouye enlisted in the U.S. Army when it dropped its ban on Japanese-Americans. He served with distinction in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated infantry regiment in U.S. Army history. He was shot multiple times and lost an arm battling German forces in Italy. Despite his injuries, he remained in the military until 1947 and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart, Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery in this action and later the Medal of Honor by President Bill Clinton.
“Inouye was an advocate for justice for all Americans and was known to advocate for fair treatment for interned Japanese Americans, Filipino World War II veterans, Native Americans and Native Hawaiians.
“As a fellow appropriator, I have had the distinct pleasure to work alongside Senator Inouye and I will miss his wise counsel and friendship. The tangible benefits Senator Inouye’s legacy will be felt in Hawaii and our nation for decades to come.”
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