Episode 9: WWII: Hawai'i at War

On this Memorial Day, my mom shares what she remembers about World War II and the relatives who answered the call to serve. Though she was very young, Aunty Piilani recalls foxholes in the yard, the arrival of Spam, and the powerful feeling of patriotism that shaped her view of the U.S. military. She reflects on family members who served—especially Uncle Jimmy, who gave up a promising Olympic swimming future, and Uncle Herbert, wounded in the Korean War. And yes, of course there’s singing—each military branch gets its anthem, delivered Aunty Piilani-style.