Father-Daughter Team Revives Oregon's Historical Legacy with Prestigious Award
In a commendable effort to honor and preserve a vital part of history, a Bend father-daughter duo, Eric and Mia Ballinger, have received the Oregon Heritage Excellence Award for their work on the Oregon Nisei Veterans WWII Memorial Highway Historical Marker. This significant recognition was presented by the Oregon Heritage Commission during a ceremony held in Mt. Angel on April 29, 2026.
Honoring the Nisei Veterans
The award celebrates the Ballingers' leadership in the coalition which successfully established the historical marker dedicated to Nisei veterans—second-generation Japanese Americans who bravely served during World War II. Despite facing severe discrimination and the incarceration of many of their families under Executive Order 9066, over 430 Oregonians of Nisei descent fought honorably for their country.
Now, a 41-mile stretch of Highway 35, from Government Camp to Hood River, proudly bears the designation of the Oregon Nisei Veterans WWII Memorial Highway, alongside a state-sponsored historical marker detailing the sacrifices of these veterans. This initiative not only sheds light on a lesser-known narrative but also offers a poignant reminder of the valor shown by these soldiers during a tumultuous time in history.
A Coalition of Change
The project’s success is attributed to a diverse coalition, which includes descendants of Nisei veterans, the Oregon Nisei Veterans, American Legion Post 22, and various historical organizations. Eliza Canty-Jones, chair of the Oregon Travel Information Council, emphasized the group's dedication to bringing forward the stories of these veterans, highlighting the significance of mending past harms while preserving memories.
Local author Linda Tamura’s research played an instrumental role in unveiling the injustices faced by Nisei soldiers, including the erasure of names from honor rolls during wartime. Such discoveries have sparked conversations about racism and discrimination, reinforcing the project's objective to honor the courage of Nisei veterans.
A Message of Healing and Respect
Eric and Mia Ballinger expressed the importance of the highway designation in publicly acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices of the Nisei veterans. “This is a crucial step in changing the narrative to one of pride, honor, and healing,” they stated. The partnership with American Legion Post 22—which resolved to acknowledge and apologize for past injustices—serves as an inspiring message for future generations and underscores the need for unity in honoring the diverse fabric of American history.
As communities come together to celebrate this achievement, the story of the Nisei veterans is redefined, aligning with the ongoing quest for respect and understanding across all walks of life.
