1. Describe Ben Kurokis early childhood and young adulthood. Be sure to include location and how he eventually joined the military.
The documentary film Most Honorable Son is about Nebraska-born Ben Kuroki, the first Japanese-American war hero. Kurokis early childhood was spent in a small farming community in Nebraska. He did well in school, but if it were not for the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Kuroki might not have pursued a military career. The bombing of Pearl Harbor inspired the entire Kuroki family to fight for their country, the United States, partly driven out of shame and a need to prove their honor and loyalty. Kurokis father encouraged him and several of his brothers to enlist, but they were turned away due to growing anti-Japanese sentiments. Eventually they were able to enlist, and Kuroki was assigned to a post in England. He pursued a specialty as a B-series air pilot and quickly saw action throughout Europe, becoming a war hero. His status as a hero contradicted the status of other Japanese-Americans (Nisei), who were being placed in internment camps.
2.What happened to Ben Kuroki in Los Angeles and San Francisco?
When Kuroki returned to the United States and was posted in California, he witnessed severe and pervasive discrimination in both southern and northern California. In both Los Angeles and San Francisco, Kuroki decided to become a hero of another type: advocating on behalf of his people within the context of civil rights and liberties.
3.When Ben Kuroki visited the Japanese Internment camp what was the reception he received from those interned?
When visiting internment camps, Kuroki received a mixed reception. Many of the prisoners resented his fighting for the very same government that would round up all its Japanese citizens and place them in internment camps. Others, however, did view and treat Kuroki as a hero who would potentially be able to advocate on their behalf. Kurokis strength of character, his determination, and his humble demeanor all allowed him to continue fighting for the true meaning of American values.
4. After watching the film explain the meaning of the title Most Honorable Son as related to Ben Kurokis service to the United States?
The culturally appropriate title of the film Most Honorable Son refers to Kurokis selflessness and honor, his comportment and his defense of lofty ethical principles as a son of immigrant parents to the United States. Kuroki remained proud to be both an American and a Nisei.