VAUS celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May 23, 2025 •
U.S. Fifth Army soldiers of Company M, 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regiment march through Vada, Italy, to an area where Lt. Gen. Mark W. Clark would present the Presidential Citation for outstanding action in combat to the 100th Infantry Battalion, which was composed of Japanese-American troops. (Photo by U.S. Army)
Veterans Among US (VAUS) honors the heritage and celebrates the service of Asian American and Pacific Islander members of the military.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is celebrated each May to recognize the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. This month honors the profound impact AAPI communities have made across every facet of American life — both historically and today.
AAPI Heritage Month is celebrated in May to commemorate two key milestones:
- May 7, 1843: The arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States.
- May 10, 1869: The completion of the transcontinental railroad, a monumental project built largely by Chinese laborers.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have a long, proud history of military service and have bravely stood in defense of our nation since the Civil War.
One notable example is the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, an all-Japanese American unit that fought during World War II. Despite facing discrimination and internment at home, these soldiers served with exceptional distinction, becoming one of the most decorated units in U.S. military history. The 442nd earned 9,485 Purple Hearts; eight Presidential Unit Citations; and 21 Medals of Honor.
More than 260,000 Filipino soldiers also fought alongside American forces during World War II. In recognition of their service, Congress awarded them the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017.
Today, Asian American and Pacific Islander Americans continue to serve with distinction across all branches of the military — as soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, guardians and coast guardsmen, as well as in civilian roles. Their leadership, resilience and commitment to service embody the very values our military upholds.
About Veterans Among US
Veterans Among US (VAUS) is dedicated to serving and supporting our local and military communities, along with the University of California and all its locations. Visit the VAUS ERG webpage to learn more. For questions or to join, contact vaus@ucop.edu.
Tags: AAPI Heritage Month, VAUS, Veterans Among US
