Justice for U.S. POWs (From Congressman Mike Honda’s official website)

I have also sought justice for tens of thousands of American World War II soldiers who were held as prisoners of war by Japan. Many of these soldiers were part of the Bataan Death March, during which they were forced to march over 60 miles with little food or water. Those who survived this march were turned over to private Japanese companies, such as Mitsubishi, Mitsui and Nippon Steel, to serve as slave laborers. During this period of enslavement, thousands of Americans perished working for the economic benefit of Japanese companies—many of which still operate today.

This year, Japan’s Ambassador to the United States, Ichiro Fujisaki issued an apology on behalf of the government of Japan, to the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor. I commend Ambassador Fujisaki for his recognition and sincere apology for his nation’s brutal treatment of US POWs during World War II, and I am hopeful that his apology will help move forward full justice for these brave men.

The U.S. government has historically blocked efforts by these POWs to sue these Japanese corporations for compensation. I introduced legislation in the 107th and 108th Congresses to guarantee these POWs their day in court, and was a cosponsor of Rep. Duncan Hunter’s H.R. 5972 in the 109th Congress. Unfortunately, legislation to bring justice or compensation to these slave laborers has not been passed to date, but I will continue to advocate for their cause in the 111th Congress.

Past visits with Congressman Honda

    

2001
 

2006
 

2008