When Japanese American families were forcibly relocated to internment camps during World War II, many lost their homes, businesses, and farms. But in northern California, Bob Fletcher, a state agricultural inspector, chose a different path. Instead of turning away, he offered to manage the farms of three Japanese American families — the Nittas, Okamotos, and Tsukamotos — until they could return.
Fletcher worked long hours to keep their land productive, paid their taxes and mortgages, and refused to profit from their hardship. His actions sparked hostility from some neighbors; he was even shot at for helping families the government had displaced. Yet, he never stopped.
When the war ended and the families returned home, they found their farms intact and thriving — all thanks to Fletcher’s honesty and dedication. His story is a quiet but powerful reminder that compassion and integrity can shine, even in the darkest times.