He served as acting Squad Leader in Basic and was used as cadre to train replacements for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team—the most decorated unit in military history. His unit was renamed the 171st Infantry Battalion A with whom he stayed until the unit was disbanded in March 1945. From there he was sent to Ft. Meade, Maryland for three months and went overseas in June when he came of age.

Members of his unit were sent to Nuremberg, Germany and were given varied assignments. Later they were sent to Munich, Gladbach, and Antwerp. Then they went on to Mons, Belgium where they were with the 390th Military Police Unit guarding supplies destined for locations throughout Europe.

From there he came home and was discharged in June 1946. Three of his brothers were still serving so he had to stay on the farm to help the family. In 1952, Hiro married Harriet Watanabe and was allowed to leave the farm.

In 1953, VFW Post 8499 for Nisei veterans was formed with Hiro as a charter member. He served as Commander from 1993 to 1995.

Hiro worked as manager of the Star Super Market #2 for 19 years, and went from there to Mayfair Market until his retirement. After retiring, he helped relatives at the Aki Hardware Company. He became involved with the Fresno Veterans Day Parade in 1993 while serving as Commander of VFW Post 8499. In early 1995, Chuck Monges approached him to become a docent for the Legion of Valor Museum, which he did on Wednesdays. Most recently, he was promoted to Staff for his many hours of dedicated service to the museum.

Hiro is very active with the Nikkei Center for Senior Citizens, and the United Japanese Christian Church for whom he served as trustee for many years. When he finds the time, he enjoys going fishing with his buddies.

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