Herbert Isonaga and Edwin Shimabukuro of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team pose for the camera in Italy during a pause in in combat.
When the Germans first encountered the Nissei, they thought the Empire of Japan had sent in reinforcements and were for a brief time, hopeful that their fortunes had changed. They soon found out, however, that the 442nd was there to kick their ass, and it delivered, being one of the highest decorated units in the U.S. Army.