Dedication planned for April 29

Roseville, Calif. – The Placer Chapter of the Japanese Americans Citizens League and Grand Parlor of the Native Sons of the Golden West are inviting the public to attend a dedication ceremony for two new plaques honoring World War II-era Japanese Americans at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 29 in Roseville.

The plaques will be dedicated at the Bill Santucci Justice Center and installed into the “Go For Broke Road” memorial recognizing the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which was composed of Japanese American citizens. The plaques complete the memorial, which was unveiled 14 years ago.

“May is declared ‘Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month,” and this dedication ceremony is an appropriate kickoff to that month in our region,” said JACL spokesman Stewart Feldman.

The Placer JACL plaque features a likeness of President Ronald Reagan (sculpted by noted artist Douglas Van Howd) along with two historic quotes. The Native Sons plaque acknowledges changes in the group’s values from its origins to current times. It is dedicated in memory of E. Ken Tokutomi, a leader in Placer JACL and in the Auburn Parlor of the Native Sons.

Members of the JACL and Native Sons of the Golden West will be available for interviews, as will Placer County Board of Supervisors Chair Jim Holmes. Additional information on the memorial and the JACL can be found on their website.