PFC Toshiaki "Toshi" Morimoto, October 18, 1944

Toshiaki was born and raised in Down Camp Hakalau.  He grew up playing basketball and participating in various community activities.  He went to Hakalau School and Hilo High School but, following the death of his mother in 1938, was employed as a carpenter with the Plantation until enlisting in March of 1943.  He was honored in Hakalau at a Chicken Hekka dinner right before his induction.

PFC Morimoto was in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, 2nd Battalion, F Company.  He was killed by artillery fire on October 18, 1944 during an almost continuous four-day firefight in freezing and rainy weather for the strongly fortified hill that dominated Bruyeres, a small town in northeast France.  The Battle of Bruyères and the rescue of the "Lost Texas Battalion" is now considered to be one of the ten major military battles fought by the United States Armed Forces. 
 
After receiving his remains in 1948, memorial and interment services were held with participation by the AJA Veterans Council, the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the 442nd Co. F Boys.  He was survived by his father (a carpenter for the Plantation), 2 brothers and 5 sisters.