Family & Living

Miami,FL--(HISPANIC PR WIRE)--September 12, 2002--The United States Marine Corps recognized thirteen Hispanic Heroes at the most recent National Council of La Raza Annual Conference and Latino Expo USA in Miami. The heroes are former Marines who were honored with the nation's highest military award, the Congressional Medal of Honor "for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty." The Hispanic Heroes were featured at the Marine Corps booth exhibition area, alongside the Marine Leadership Speakers program, at the La Raza Conference and Latino Expo.

"Hispanics have served in the United States Armed Services for over a century," says Raul Yzaguirre, Chairman/President of the National Council of La Raza. "We have made tremendous contributions to building and protecting this nation, so we are proud to celebrate our heroes from the US Marine Corps who were recognized with this prestigious award."

The Hispanic Heroes entered the Marine Corps from various parts of the United States, and fought in wars from the Boxer Rebellion (1901) to World War II (1940s), the Korean War (1950s), and the Vietnam era conflict (1960s-70s). They were majors, captains and privates. Of the thirteen heroes, only one is living, Sando M. Vargas, Jr. who was recognized with the Congressional Medal of Honor for his action in Dai Do, Republic of Vietnam on April 30 to May 2, 1968.

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. The Award is generally presented to its recipient by the President of the United States of America in the name of Congress.

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