Two dozen Japanese-American veterans were given a soldiers sendoff Sunday with flower lei, handshakes and hugs.
"Oh very excited, I've been thinking about it for a week and it finally came," says WWII Veteran Jack Nakamura.
For many it was a long-awaited reunion.
"Oh it's really something because some of the boys I haven't seen in years," says WWII Veteran Takahashi "Bolo" Shirakata.
It's been 68 years since these brave men first left their home in Hawaii to fight for our freedom in World War II, joining the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team and the Military Intelligence Service. The remarkable heroes volunteered to defend a country that declared them to be 'enemy aliens'.
Now decades later their service and sacrifice will be forever remembered and recognized.
"I know they went through a lot so this is it, this is their moment," says Pauline Yamamoto, daughter of Jack Nakamura.
Wednesday they will receive the highest civilian award bestowed by Congress after President Barack Obama signed legislation collectively granting the Congressional Gold Medal to the Japanese-American soldiers of the 100th, 442nd and MIS.
Recognizing not only these brave men but the many lives that were lost in their units.
"It was so long ago that it happened and we appreciate it, for me this will be my last horrah," says WWII Veteran Paul Watanabe.
"It's very exciting to see that medal, it's a gold medal," says WWII Veteran Tadashi "Tad" Fukumoto.
What these veterans don't know has been kept a surprise. They will also be celebrated with a water arch salute when their plane touches down in our nation's Capitol.
"It's a big accomplishment and a shining moment for him and everyone else," says Keli Raeota, grand-daughter of Jack Nakamura.
Hawaii is hosting it's own heroes celebration for the Japanese-American veterans on December 17 with a victory parade in Waikiki.
