My heart is saddened by the loss of a true American Hero, Senator Daniel K. Inouye.
As our nation pauses to mourn his passing while he lies in state at the Capitol Rotunda, I am reminded of the significant contributions that he has made to our country. Senator Inouye was the second longest serving Senator in U.S. history and the first Japanese-American to serve in the U.S. Congress, and he led what became the most decorated infantry regiment in United States Army history.
His bravery in World War II cost him his arm but saved the lives of his platoon, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism. That same passion and devotion to his country inspired him as a Senator to co-sponsor the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and other pro-equality legislation.
The Senator had deep roots in Los Angeles where he served on the Board of Governors for the Japanese American National Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian. His wife Irene Hirano Inouye served as its President and CEO from 1988-2009. Senator Inouye inspired many Asian American youth to find their voices, embrace their history and become activists and public servants. These contributions among others are just a few examples of his outstanding commitment and unwavering dedication to the United States. It seems fitting that his final word was “Aloha”. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his wife Irene. Senator Inouye will be deeply missed, but his contributions and legacy will continue for generations to come.