In commemoration of Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month we are honored to present the life journey and achievements of Japanese American artist George Akimoto

George Akimoto was born on November 13, 1922 in Stockton, California in the family of the Japanese immigrants Dr. Kensuke and Tatsumi Yamada Akimoto. Dr. Akimoto graduated from the Aichi Medical College in Japan in 1907 and after arrival to the United States in 1917, was practicing medicine in Stockton as a Physician. In 1921 Tatsumi joined her husband, along with their son Takehiko and daughter Masako in the United States.

In 1940, Stockton City directory Kensuke Akimoto was listed as a Physician in private practice at 18 South El Dorado Street and his family was residing in the rented house on 430 West Charter Way. George was enrolled in Stockton High School and at the age of 13 had joined Sea Scouts rapidly advancing in ranks having regular training aboard S.S. Albatross. “Stockton Record” in the May 20, 1939 article announced the Eagle Award, Ordinary Sea Scout Award and Merit badge being presented to George Akimoto during the Sea Scout senior ball at the Stockton Golf and Country Club.

To learn more about this informative and historical new online exhibit, visit:
https://sandiegoairandspace.org/exhibits/online-exhibit-page/george-akimoto-introduction