About this record

This black and white photo is taken from the defence service records of a man called Mario Takasuka, who served during World War II. Mario was born in Australia in 1910, the son of Jō and Ichiko Takasuka who migrated to Australia from Japan in 1905. Jō Takasuka conducted many experiments in adapting rice growing to Australian conditions in the early 1900s, helping to progress the Australian rice growing industry.

Mario, like many Japanese Australians, applied to serve his country during the Second World War. His path to successfully joining the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) was not smooth. His first 2 attempts to enlist were rejected based on race restrictions that were consistent with the White Australia policy. As Mario was of Japanese descent, his application was rejected when he applied in his hometown of Swan Hill. A month later, Mario travelled to Melbourne to attempt enlisting again. This time he was successful.

Mario was serving overseas when Australia declared war on Japan after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941 and, as a result, all men of Japanese ancestry residing in Australia were interned. His brother, Shō, was not able to join the AIF because he was born in Japan and was interned during the war.

Mario's service records show that his loyalty to Australia and the British Empire were questioned while Australia was at war with Japan. His commanding officer responded with a glowing report about Mario, declaring that he had 'no hesitation in stating that he [Mario] is above suspicion.' He added that his record was 'exemplary' and that was ‘most popular with the men'.

Mario survived the Second World War. After the war, he returned to his life in Australia and worked for his family vegetable-growing business.

Food for thought

Mario Takasuka grew up in Australia during the White Australia policy. What might have motivated him to enlist in the AIF despite policies that were intended to exclude him?