Willie Tanamachi & Jimmie Kanaya Signed 442nd Regimental Combat Team Photograph (PSA) WWII Japanese American Veterans (PSA)

**Hand Signed 5x7 Photograph by WWII 442nd Regimental Combat Team Veterans Willie Tanamachi and Jimmie Kanaya — Encapsulated by PSA/DNA**

Offered for auction is a historically significant **5x7 photograph** hand signed in permanent marker by two distinguished members of the legendary **442nd Regimental Combat Team**, **Willie Tanamachi** and **Jimmie Kanaya**. This signed photograph is a rare tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history, and it comes **encapsulated by PSA/DNA Authentication Services** for long-term preservation and authenticity.

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### **Biographies of the Veterans:**

**Willie Tanamachi**

Private First Class Willie Tanamachi served with valor in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which was comprised almost entirely of second-generation Japanese Americans (Nisei). Like many of his fellow soldiers, Tanamachi fought heroically in some of the most grueling campaigns in Europe, despite the internment of Japanese Americans back home. His courage, loyalty, and service remain emblematic of the deep patriotism displayed by the 442nd.

**Jimmie Kanaya**

Major Jimmie Kanaya was one of the very few Japanese American officers and one of the first Nisei to be commissioned in the U.S. Army. Serving as a combat medic and later as an intelligence officer with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Kanaya distinguished himself with extraordinary dedication. Captured by German forces during the war, he survived as a prisoner of war before returning home and continuing his service, ultimately retiring as a colonel. His military career spanned three wars — World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

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### **About the 442nd Regimental Combat Team:**

Formed in 1943, the **442nd Regimental Combat Team** was an all-Nisei (second-generation Japanese American) unit that fought primarily in Europe during WWII. Despite facing discrimination and the internment of their families, the soldiers of the 442nd exhibited unmatched bravery and determination. The unit became one of the most decorated in American military history, earning over **18,000 awards**, including **21 Medals of Honor**, and playing a vital role in the liberation of towns in France and Italy. Their motto, **“Go For Broke,”** symbolized their resolve to prove their loyalty to the United States through selfless service.

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### **Item Details:**

- **Photograph Size**: 5" x 7"

- **Signers**: Willie Tanamachi and Jimmie Kanaya

- **Ink**: Signed in permanent marker

- **Authentication**: **Encapsulated by PSA/DNA Authentication Services**

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This signed and encapsulated photograph represents a rare and powerful piece of World War II and civil rights history. The signatures of **Willie Tanamachi** and **Jimmie Kanaya** honor the bravery of the 442nd RCT and the legacy of Japanese American soldiers who fought not only against foreign enemies but also against prejudice and injustice at home. A distinguished addition to any military, historical, or cultural collection.

A portion of the sale of this auction will be donated to the General James. H Doolittle Scholarship Fund. The General James H. Doolittle Scholarship Fund was founded to assist college students by awarding one scholarship annually in the maximum amount of $5,000 to a deserving student who is pursuing a baccalaureate or advanced degree in aeronautical engineering or an aerospace science. Students are selected based on their scholastic achievement, school and community participation, demonstrated leadership potential and financial need. More information can be found at the Doolittle Scholarship Funds’ website.

The autograph(s) has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: PSA Encapsulated

Due to the uniqueness of each item, please refer to the photos provided in this auction. We offer high resolution images of each item rather than a written description of condition.

This item is being shipped from the Pristine Auction warehouse.