Mexican and Mexican-Americans in World War ll
The Beginning Of World War ll
For a variety of these young men, it would be their first time being in combat, for others their last. Courageous men and women both fought under the flag of the stripes and stars. Before the battle, men had to be present when chosen to be a part of the American army. Those who did not speak English found it was a difficult road throughout registration, boot camp, and even in battle. Mexican-American and Mexicans were less likely to be in a segregated group unlike African Americans and Japanese Americans. Mexican-American and Mexicans fought side by side with their fellow Anglo soldiers. For the first time, they felt happiness, no differences within each other, just a group of men fighting for their country. For some Mexican and Mexican Americans, it was a tough situation, as some of these men were the powerhouse of their families.
Women in WWII
Women had a major role in World War ll. Women worked side by side by peers, opposite sex, and those who were a mixture of different race. They took over much in the aircraft manufacture. A women even went as far as to use her sibling's birth certificate to be eligible to be in WWII.
201st Fighter Squadron
A group made of all Mexican nationalist men. Variety of men involved in World War II were inexperienced, some even coming from agriculture work only.
Medal of Honor
Out of those 12 hard working award winners, Marcario Garcia, was the first Mexican Immigrant who received the medal of honor.
Mariachis Are Now On March:
Nine Mariachis tag along with the USO.
Click on the green tab to read about extra information we decided to throw in!
Non-Medal of Honor:
These men took courageous actions that led them to earn awards. Learn more about Hero Street here, where they honor those fallen and those who still lived.
Returning Home:
Returning from the long awaited war, some of these men may have thought life would be different now that they served under the flag of the stripes and stars. Yet for some, that was not the case.