The Akune Family and World War II

The Akune family, originally from Japan, faced division and identity struggles during WWII. After immigrating to the US, the family was separated, with some members returning to Japan. During the war, brothers Harry and Ken were interned in camps but later served in the US Army, facing discrimination. Unbeknownst to them, their younger brothers served in the Japanese Navy. Post-war, the family reunited, reconciling their differences. The story highlights the challenges faced by Japanese Americans and the broader immigrant experience in the US.

What was the primary reason for the Akune family's initial move to America?

• To join relatives already in America

• To escape war in Japan

• To seek educational opportunities

• To find economic opportunities

What event led to the internment of Japanese Americans like Harry and Ken?

• The end of World War I

• The bombing of Hiroshima

• The attack on Pearl Harbor

• The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

How did Harry and Ken contribute to the US war effort despite their internment?

• By serving in the military intelligence service

• By organizing protests

• By joining the US Navy

• By working in factories

What role did Harry and Ken play in the US Army during World War II?

• They were pilots

• They were translators and intelligence officers

• They were medics

• They were combat soldiers

What was the main challenge Harry and Ken faced from their fellow soldiers?

• Discrimination and mistrust

• Inadequate supplies

• Language barriers

• Lack of training

What was the surprising discovery at the Akune family reunion after the war?

• The brothers had fought on the same side

• The brothers had fought on opposing sides

• The brothers had not participated in the war

• The brothers had all moved to Japan

Which two Akune brothers served in the Imperial Japanese Navy?

• None of the brothers

• Ichiro and Yukiye

• Harry and Ken

• Saburo and Shiro

What was Harry's greatest regret after the war?

• Not thanking his grand uncle

• Not serving longer in the military

• Not returning to Japan

• Not moving to California sooner

What was the US government's response to the internment of Japanese Americans in 1988?

• They denied any wrongdoing

• They provided reparations payments

• They issued a formal apology

• They ignored the issue

What broader theme does the story of the Akune brothers highlight?

• The economic prosperity of immigrants

• The oppression and perseverance of immigrant groups

• The military strategies of World War II

• The cultural assimilation of immigrants