Join the National Museum of the Pacific War for their Day of Remembrance Commemoration held in the Historic Nimitz Ballroom. This year join authors Constance Hays Matsumoto and Kent Matsumoto, co-authors of this poignant story, drawing inspiration from their family histories.

"Of White Ashes" is a compelling historical novel that centers on two main characters, Ruby and Koji, during World War II. The narrative highlights their experiences as they navigate the challenges of being Japanese American, with Ruby facing internment in U.S. camps and Koji surviving the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

Constance Hays Matsumoto

Inspired by Shakespeare’s “What’s past is prologue,” Connie writes stories and poetry intended to influence positive change in our world.

Connie earned her B.A. from Notre Dame of Maryland University and M.S. in Business from Johns Hopkins University. She is a member of the Authors Guild, Eastern Shore Writers' Association, Historical Novel Society, and Women's National Book Association, and served on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Writers' Association as Communications Chair and as President of the Baltimore Chapter and as an Advisory Council Member and Chair of the Working Group on Nuclear Issues for the International Center for Multigenerational Legacies of Trauma.

Kent Matsumoto

Kent, a third-generation Japanese American, was born in Virginia and spent his formative years living in Japan where he attended the American School. He earned his degrees from the University of Virginia and University of Michigan Law School and has worked in law firms and private and public companies. He has authored articles for professional publications and spoken before numerous professional organizations.