National Go For Broke Day is a holiday observed annually on April 5th that encourages everyone to give it their all in everything they do. The name of this holiday comes from a gambling phrase used in Hawaii, “go for broke,” which essentially means that the gambler is wagering everything they have to try for one big win.

This phrase also became associated with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team—an army unit comprised of Japanese Americans from Hawaii and the mainland of the United States. This unit was known for its gung-ho attitude and its ability to get things done.

The History Of National Go For Broke Day

The 442nd Regimental Combat Team was the most decorated unit—at least when the units are sorted according to the length of service and size. They ended up being awarded 21 Medals of Honor, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, a Distinguished Service Medal, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 4,000 Bronze Stars, 486 Purple Hearts, and 560 Silver Stars.

On April 5, 1945, Private First Class Sadao Munemori sacrificed his life for the rest of his unit while they were being pinned down by enemy fire near the Italian town of Serravezza. This unit remained in battle until April 14, 1945, near not only Serravezza but also Fosdinovo and Carrara, Italy. They received a Presidential Unit Citation for outstanding achievements in battle. Unfortunately, we don’t currently know when National Go For Broke Day was created.

Observing National Go For Broke Day

Anyone wishing to observe this holiday can do so by learning more about the 442nd Regimental Combat Team at www.goforbroke.org, or by using the day as a platform for attempting something they really want to accomplish.

Sometimes you just have to go all in and take a big chance to reap a big reward. This is the day to do just that. People can also spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #NationalGoForBrokeDay on their social media accounts.