As members of the public pay their last respects to Senator Daniel K. Inouye, the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage recalls the honor of his participation in three Center projects: the Hawai‘i Folklife Festival (1989), the National World War II Reunion (2004), and the Asian Pacific Americans: Local Lives, Global Ties Festival program.

The senator, who passed away on December 17, 2012, has left behind a remarkable legacy that includes military service and a Congressional Medal of Honor, over a half-century in national politics, and a lifetime commitment to championing the causes of his home state of Hawai‘i and furthering the civil rights of all Americans.

Folklife media director Charlie Weber interviewed the senator in 2004 on the occasion of the National World War II Reunion.

Senator describes the transformative impact of WWII on the course of his life and relays several poignant stories about the wisdom of his father Hyotaro Inouye.

Senator describes his WWII military experiences, including his enlistment, basic training, and the relationship between the mainland and Hawai‘i soldiers in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

Read Charlie Weber’s blog about his interview with the senator.