2008

April 2008

The Ex-POWs, Korean War, held their annual reunion in Honolulu, Hawaii earlier this month. Over 160 attendees gathered to honor the POW/MIA survivors and those who perished while defending our country during the Korean War. This reunion was organized by Nick Nishimoto, and assisted by Francis Yasutake and Tommy Tahara to commemorate and recognize the POW/MIA soldiers and veterans.

Nishomoto, along with retired Colonel Al Streck (master of ceremony), hosted the opening banquet on April 3, 2008 at the Hale Koa Hotel. The Consul General to South Korea and various military personnel welcomed all of the ex-POWs. During the banquet, ex-POWs described their individual stories; some of the stories were shared with a sense of humor. However the severity and cruelty of being a prisoner was never misplaced. Clarence Pang described one moment when he told his captors, “The best thing my grandmother ever did was leave your country!” This defiant comment earned him a brutal beating and had him literally thrown out the door. Shorty Estabrook had pogs made that read “Tiger’s Survivors” across them; Tiger was one of their most cruel punishers during captivity. Most of the ex-POWs knew “Tiger.” Tiger had a reputation for tormenting his prisoners on long marches; many did not survive.

President Bush signed a proclamation declaring April 9, 2008 as POW/MIA National Recognition Day.