Go for Broke Day

Go for Broke Day is an annual American holiday commemorating one of America’s best WWII-era units. It is celebrated on April 5. Judging by the name, one could assume that the day was created in honor of casino players or people who made a very risky decision. However, today we honor the men of the U.S. Army’s 442nd Regiment. Why is that? We’ll tell you why.

History

The phrase Go for Broke means “give it all up,” “take a risk,” etc. It is usually characteristic of players in casinos and other gambling games. It was this slang expression that became the motto of the 442nd Regiment. These guys went through the whole war and performed many feats. Their motto today is persistently associated with determination, courage and honesty.

The history of the 442nd Regiment is very interesting. It happened after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After that, many men of Japanese descent living in the United States began to encounter contempt, misunderstanding, and increased government control. In the summer of 1942, the 100th Infantry Battalion was created, consisting only of Americans with Japanese ancestry. The goal was to test their loyalty to their country and stop seeing them as secret enemies of the state. Hopes were 100% fulfilled – the created battalion with the name “Purple Hearts” was particularly effective on the battlefield. The 442nd Regiment was formed on its basis and became one of the most significant units in the U.S. Army during WWII.

Interesting facts

• The 442nd regiment received the most awards after the defeat of the Nazis: more than 18,000 soldiers were among those decorated.
• Japanese Americans were called Nisei. Fighting for their rights and eliminating discrimination, their representatives themselves took the initiative to join the army.
• The unit itself has received seven high honors from the president of the United States.

How to celebrate

Learn more about the exploits of the 442nd Regiment online. Visit military museums to get a closer look at historical information from those years. Listen to stories from a tour guide.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask users what information they know about the unit?

When is Go for Broke Day celebrated in 2024?

Go for Broke Day is observed on April 5 each year.

Observations