Go for Broke Day

Go for Broke Day on April 5^th encourages us to give our best. Regardless of our goals, there is a reason to persevere despite all the difficulties.

Origin of Go for Broke Day

The phrase “Go for Broke” is derived from the Hawaiian Pidgin, which means “bet everything”.

Our research realized that the 442nd Regiment Combat Team of the US Army is the reason for Go for Broke Day. The RCT 442 is a regiment-sized combat unit composed primarily of Japanese-American soldiers. They gave themselves up to volunteer to fight in the Second World War. The 442nd RCT Regiment is considered the most decorated infantry regiment in the history of the United States Army. “Go for Broke” is the motto of the 442nd Regiment Combat Team.

The story doesn't end there, however, and April 5 is significant. On that day, the first Medal of Honor recipient from this regiment died while active near Seravazza, Italy, in 1945.

Private Sadao Munemori sacrificed his life for his unit protection when they were pinned down by enemy fire near Seravazza, Italy. After that, his unit continued to fight until April 14, 1945 near Serravezza, Carrara, and Fosdinovo, Italy. Because of their efforts, they received the Presidential Unit Commendation for outstanding achievements in combat. Units will earn an additional seven Presidential Unit Citations during their service.

They are not only the most decorated unit in terms of size and length of service, but also awarded with 21 Medals of Honor. The 442nd Regiment's combat team was also awarded 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, 1 Distinguished Service Medal, 560 Silver Stars, 22 Military Merit Medals, 15 Soldiers Medals, 4,000 Bronze Stars and 486 Hearts Violet.

Go for Broke Day really means giving your best regardless of the obstacles ahead.

How to celebrate Go for Broke Day

Take the risk and start go for Broke. To learn more about the men of the 442nd Regiment Combat Team, visit www.goforbroke.org. Another idea for that day is to watch the 1951 film “Go for Broke”, which depicts the story of the 442th RTC on the big screen. Use #NationalGoForBrokeDay to post on social media.