Sylvie and Hervé Claudon will share their extensive research into the World War II liberation of their native Vosges Mountain region in France. As a young boy, Hervé was fascinated by WWII stories of courage and strength demonstrated by the French Resistance and also by “the Hawaiians,” the local name given to the Nisei soldiers who helped to liberate his hometown of Bruyères from a prolonged occupation by German troops.

Since the 1980s, Hervé and his wife Sylvie have studied the Vosges Campaigns together and worked on a variety of commemorative projects. From interviews with the local French people as well as the Nisei soldiers, they have been able to map out the events that took place, and Hervé has organized plaques at specific locations to commemorate the heroic Nisei sacrifices. For example, working with Medal of Honor recipient Joe Sakato, Hervé located Hill 617, the hill Sakato charged as a diversionary tactic during the rescue of the Lost Battalion. Hervé and Sylvie’s presentation will offer a uniquely French perspective on the contributions of the 100th/442nd.

This program is free for Museum members and free with general admission for non-members. Please purchase admission at the front desk prior to the event. RSVPs are strongly encouraged using this online form.