Family of Japanese Canadian Soldier Seeks Final Resting Place

UPDATE: The family of a Japanese Canadian soldier is on a heartfelt mission to honor their grandfather’s legacy by seeking a proper burial for his ashes, recently discovered at a Vancouver Buddhist temple. As British Columbians prepare for Remembrance Day ceremonies on November 11, the emotional journey of Pte. Sentaro Omoto’s descendants underscores the ongoing struggle for recognition of Japanese Canadians in the military.

In Vancouver, downtown streets are adorned with hundreds of banners celebrating Canadian veterans. Among them, the faces of Pte. Masajiro Shishido and Pte. Sentaro Omoto from the 10th Battalion remind the public of their contributions during World War I. “It was part duty and partly a way to show other Canadians, at a time of a lot of racism and discrimination, that we’re part of this country also,” said Justin Ault, Shishido’s great-grandson.

Shishido returned to Vancouver with a permanent reminder of war—a bullet lodged in his body. He later worked as a barber and passed away in 1954. Local historian Debbie Jiang has dedicated years to uncovering the stories of Japanese Canadian soldiers, including the members of the 10th Battalion who bravely fought for Canada despite facing discrimination.

Jiang’s relentless research has brought her to Omoto’s family, now living in Los Angeles. His granddaughter, Catherine Uchida, expressed her pride in her grandfather’s service, stating, “My mom was proud to be a Canadian and would talk about her dad fighting at Vimy Ridge.” On Monday, Uchida and her family visited Vancouver to see the banner honoring Omoto, just ahead of the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Their emotional quest is compounded by the recent discovery of Omoto’s ashes, which have been at the Buddhist temple since 1953. “The reverend says no one has ever come to pay their respects to your grandfather,” Uchida revealed. “I need to make this right. I’m on a quest.” The family is working to bury Omoto’s ashes in a private military cemetery, aiming to reunite him with his fellow soldiers and provide a headstone that acknowledges his service and identity.

As Remembrance Day approaches, the significance of honoring these veterans grows even more poignant. The efforts of both Ault and Uchida highlight the ongoing need for recognition of the contributions made by Japanese Canadians during pivotal moments in history. This year, British Columbians will not only remember the sacrifices of their soldiers but also reflect on the stories that have long been overlooked.

As the ceremonies commence, the banners will serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices of individuals like Shishido and Omoto. Their stories continue to resonate within their families and the broader community, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and reconciliation. The family urges anyone with information on military burial processes to come forward as they seek to honor Omoto’s legacy.

Stay tuned for updates as the family continues their quest to achieve a long-overdue tribute to a soldier who proudly served Canada amidst adversity.