National Go For Broke Day

Deepthi Reddy
Dec 22, 2023 By Deepthi Reddy
Originally Published on Feb 10, 2022
Fact-checked by Shruti Thapa
National Go For Broke Day fact: The 442nd Army unit of the United States held the motto 'go for broke'.

Where is National Go For Broke Day celebrated?

National Go For Broke day is celebrated in the United States of America in honor of the 442nd RCT unit who participated in World War II along with its Japanese-American soldiers.

Who is National Go For Broke Day celebrated by?

 It is celebrated by many in the United States in the spirit of giving it all to achieve anything that a person aspires to, without fear. It celebrates the spirit of wagering everything for a day.

When did National Go For Broke Day first start?

Although the exact date of when it started is not known, 'go for broke' was first used by the armed forces of the 442nd RCT as their unit's motto. Most soldiers who served in the war use this phrase.

Who started National Go For Broke Day?

It is not known who officially started this day, but the 'go for broke' attitude was prevalent in the service of the 442nd RCT military unit. During World War II, the members of this unit won several accolades, and some members even won the Distinguished Service Medal award.

History And Timeline

Tracing the origin of this day leads one back to the 442nd Regiment Combat Army segment whose motto was 'go for broke'. This unit was a unique combination of Japanese Americans from both the United States and Hawaii who fought during World War II.

Signing The Executive Order

President Rosevelt signed the order to relocate those of Japanese origin to military camps.

1942

All-Nisei War Team

15,000 volunteers of Japanese origin from Hawaii were called to join the military.

1943

Combat Training

From May 1943 to 1944, the soldiers trained for the war.

1944

Pfc. Sadao Munemori

Pfc. Sadao Munemori lost his life while he was battling in Seravezza, Italy.

1945

442nd RCT Movie Inspiration

The Hollywood movie titled 'Go For Broke' was inspired by this unit.

1951

Traditions And Customs

Although there are no specific traditions and customs to be followed on this day, it is always encouraged to do achieve some of the things you've always wanted to. This day's tradition lies in the fact that you do what you've been longing to do without fear.

This day is also celebrated for remembering the 442nd RCT for their historic reintegration of the military by including Japanese-Americans to fight alongside them. These soldiers served their country in partnership with the other military units.

Ways To Celebrate National Go For Broke Day

There are many peculiar ways you can celebrate this day that follow the spirit of leaving fear behind. That could mean starting a new relationship, venturing into a risky project, or partaking in an adrenaline-filled activity such as skydiving or bungee jumping.

You could also enjoy more relaxed activities like bingeing on books, movies, or songs, or visiting national monuments.

Some people take some time off to read about the history of the 442nd RTC. You can always use the #GoForBrokeDay on social media to tag any related pictures that you post.

Facts And Stats

  • One particular monument in Los Angeles, California, is, in fact, a tribute to the Japanese-American soldiers.
  • These Japanese-American soldiers were given the Congressional gold medal in December 2011 for their heroic actions and their loyalty amidst ethnic discrimination during World War II.
  • 'Go for broke' was the motto of the 442nd Regiment Combat Team (RCT) Army unit. This unit is regarded highly in U.S. military history.
  • This motto was also adopted in Hawaii by gamblers that signified the desire to win big and take the required risks to win.
  • The 442nd Regimental Combat Team also has several citations regarding their fierce fighting style in the Vosges area of France.
  • A special fact about the 442nd RCT was that it was made up of Americans of Japanese lineage; at that time, it was a big deal because of the Pearl Harbor attack that could have potentially started a conflict within the unit at any given time.
  • This unit was not just a decorated unit known for its inclusivity and size, but also because of the plethora of awards and medals won by individual soldiers. 560 Silver Stars, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 21 Medals of Honor, 9,500 Purple Hearts, 15 Soldier's Medals, and one Distinguished Service Medal were earned by soldiers of this unit.
  • One of the soldiers by the name of Sadao Munemori was known for his sacrifice as they were throttled by enemy fire in Italy.

Who started Go For Broke day?

The 442nd regiment of the United States Army is given credit for the start of this day.

When is Go For Broke day?

This day is celebrated on April 5 of every year.

What is the significance of Go For Broke Day?

The significance of this day is to encourage people to work towards their goals and aspirations despite all odds.

How do people celebrate Go For Broke Day?

People celebrate this day by engaging in their most cherished activities and posting them along with the hashtag #GoForBrokeDay on social media.

Why do people celebrate Go For Broke Day?

This day is celebrated in honor of Pfc. Sadao Munemori of the 442nd RCT who sacrificed his life in action in Italy.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Sunday, April 05, 2020
  • Monday, April 05, 2021
  • Tuesday, April 05, 2022
  • Wednesday, April 05, 2023
  • Friday, April 05, 2024

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Written by Deepthi Reddy

Master of Business Administration

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Deepthi ReddyMaster of Business Administration

With an MBA under her belt, Deepthi has discovered her true calling in content writing. Her writing repertoire is diverse, covering travel, movies, pet care, parenting, animals and birds, and more. Her joy of learning and creating has helped her craft well-written and engaging articles. When she isn't writing, Deepthi enjoys exploring new cultures, trying different foods, and spending quality time with her two children aged 7 and 12.

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Fact-checked by Shruti Thapa

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English

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Shruti ThapaBachelor of Arts specializing in English

With a passion for American, British, and children's literature, Shruti is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree at Garden City University, Bengaluru. Her fluency in Nepali, Hindi, and Mandarin demonstrates her linguistic abilities and global perspective. In addition to her literary pursuits, she has a keen interest in non-fiction literature, aesthetics, early childhood education, and Egyptian history. Shruti's research paper 'Bringing Art Illustrations In Education And Pop Culture' showcases her proficiency in these areas and her dedication to academic excellence.

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