On this episode of Our American Stories they were Americans by birth but treated as outsiders when the war began After Pearl Harbor many Japanese Americans were sent to camps under suspicion of aiding the enemy Yet from those same camps came volunteers who joined the U S Army determined to prove their loyalty Known as the Nisei these second-generation Japanese Americans fought in Europe's bloodiest battles and helped redefine what it meant to be American Major General James Mukoyama the first Asian American to command a U S Army division shares the story of these remarkable men in his [... more]

Dale Robertson, a decorated soldier in World War II, went on to become a Hollywood star, starring in Westerns and the popular TV series Tales of Wells Fargo. He served in the 97th Infantry Division, participating in key battles in Europe and the Pacific, before being part of the occupation forces in Japan. Robertson's life is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of WWII veterans. [... more]

During World War I, homing pigeons played a crucial role in military communication, particularly for the American Expeditionary Forces. One such story involves the Lost Battalion, a group of American soldiers trapped in the Argonne Forest, who relied on pigeons to send crucial messages to their headquarters. The story of these pigeons, including one named Shermi, has become a legendary tale of heroism and bravery. [... more]

A mountain boy from East Tennessee, Alvin York, becomes a war hero in World War I after capturing 132 German soldiers in a remarkable battle, relying on his faith in God and his skills as a hunter to overcome the odds. [... more]

A mountain boy from East Tennessee, Alvin York, captured 132 German soldiers in one of the greatest battles of World War I, earning him the Medal of Honor and cementing his place as the greatest war hero in history. Despite being offered fame and fortune, York returned home to his farm and dedicated his life to establishing schools and educational opportunities for the mountain children of East Tennessee, relying on his Christian faith to guide him through the horrors of war. [... more]

During World War I, the United States military turned to homing pigeons as a means of communication in the trenches. The pigeons played a crucial role in saving American lives and helping win the war. One pigeon, Cher Ami, became a hero after delivering a message with a deep wound and losing its leg, but its involvement in the Lost Battalion's rescue is still debated. [... more]

A world-renowned artist, Banksy, remains a mystery despite his global fame, with his true identity hidden behind a veil of secrecy. Meanwhile, Depeche Mode continues to produce relevant music, mourning the loss of their bandmate, Andy Fletcher. The story of the 761st Tank Battalion, an all-black unit that fought in World War II, is finally being told, thanks to Morgan Freeman's documentary. Tess Gunty's novel, The Rabbit Hutch, explores the economic decline of American cities, and a man with ALS finds joy in the kindness of his friends as they restore his beloved car. [... more]