National Go for Broke Day

National Go for Broke Day is a day dedicated to celebrating courage, determination, and the spirit of giving your all. It commemorates the bravery of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a Japanese-American military unit that served during World War II. The phrase “Go for Broke” originated from Hawaiian Pidgin slang used by gamblers, meaning to risk everything in one effort to win big. This motto perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the 442nd RCT, which fought valiantly despite facing discrimination at home.

Quick Facts

When is it?: April 5
Tagged as: History, Military, Patriotism
What’s the hashtag?: #GoForBrokeDay
When was it founded?: Likely inspired by events on April 5, 1945
Who founded it?: The origins are unclear but tied to honoring the 442nd RCT’s legacy.

History of National Go for Broke Day

The day honors the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, composed mostly of Japanese-American soldiers during World War II. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese Americans faced widespread racism and were even labeled as enemy aliens. Despite this, many volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army to prove their loyalty. The 442nd RCT became the most decorated unit for its size and length of service in U.S. military history. April 5 marks the day Pfc. Sadao Munemori, a member of this unit, sacrificed his life in Italy and posthumously received the Medal of Honor.

Timeline

1941: Attack on Pearl Harbor leads to increased discrimination against Japanese Americans.
1943: Formation of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
1944: The unit deploys to Europe and begins combat operations.
April 5, 1945: Pfc. Sadao Munemori sacrifices his life in Italy.
1951: Hollywood film Go For Broke! is released, highlighting the unit’s bravery.
2011: Members of the 442nd RCT receive the Congressional Gold Medal.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 5	Saturday
2026	April 5	Sunday
2027	April 5	Monday
2028	April 5	Wednesday
2029	April 5	Thursday
2030	April 5	Friday

Observed

National Go for Broke Day is observed by reflecting on courage and perseverance. People honor the sacrifices made by Japanese-American soldiers and embrace the motto’s spirit by taking bold steps in their own lives.

Fun Facts About National Go for Broke Day

The phrase “Go for Broke” came from Hawaiian gambling slang.
The 442nd RCT earned over 18,000 awards during World War II.
The unit’s story inspired a Hollywood film titled Go For Broke! in 1951.

Quiz

What does “Go for Broke” mean?
Which military unit is celebrated on this day?
When was Pfc. Sadao Munemori posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor?

(Answers:)

To risk everything in one effort to win big.
The 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
After his death on April 5, 1945.

FAQs

Where is National Go for Broke Day celebrated?
Primarily in the United States.
What is significant about the date?
It marks Pfc. Sadao Munemori’s heroic sacrifice during World War II.
Why is this day important?
It honors courage, sacrifice, and perseverance against all odds.