LULAC SAYS THE MEDAL OF HONOR LONG OVERDUE FOR AN AMERICAN HERO OF LATINO ANCESTRY

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Urges Approval of America's Highest Military Honor for Marcelino Serna, a World War I Soldier

Washington, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) calls upon President Biden and the Department of Defense to posthumously award the Medal of Honor to Private Marcelino Serna, a Mexican immigrant who enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War I and became the most decorated Texas soldier of the war. Serna's legacy was marked by an enduring injustice of being denied the Medal of Honor because of his Mexican heritage and inability to speak English, as documented by historian Bernie Sargent in his book, ‘Marcelino Serna, The Giant Killer, A Hero Among Men.’

"The time is long past when an American military hero is denied an honor that he has earned on the battlefield simply because of his country of origin or the language that he or she speaks," says Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "What speaks louder than any words is the bravery of this Mexican immigrant and the courage that he displayed on behalf of his fellow American service members when confronted by a deadly enemy force. We call upon the Biden administration to approve without delay and award the U.S. Medal of Honor posthumously to Marcelino Serna, a brave American who risked his life for our country. Let us do the right thing, even decades later."

Private Marcelino Serna was born in Mexico and moved to the United States for work. When World War I broke out, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at a time when few immigrants were embraced in the ranks. He was quickly sent to Europe, where he served with the 89th Infantry Division in France. In September 1918, at the Battle of Saint-Mihiel, Serna demonstrated exceptional courage and tactical skill when he single-handedly captured 24 German soldiers. Soon after, in the Meuse-Argonne offensive, he saved many fellow soldiers by taking out a German sniper's nest, moving undeterred under enemy fire to protect his unit. His commanding officers took immediate note, and Serna was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the French Croix de Guerre, and two Purple Hearts.

"Heroism is not defined by language, our culture, race, or ethnicity," says Lawrence Romo, LULAC National Board Member and Vice President for Veterans. "In my lifetime of service to my country, I have seen that we as Americans honor and acknowledge the brave service members who risked their lives on our behalf, asking nothing in return and risking all for freedom. It is only appropriate now that we say to Private Serna, 'Thank you for your service, and may you rest in peace and power. Your country is grateful for your sacrifice.'"

General John J. Pershing, who led American forces in Europe, recognized Serna's exemplary service and courage, praising him as an extraordinary soldier who embodied the best of the U.S. Army. Astonishingly, Serna fought alongside fellow soldier Alvin York, who received the Medal of Honor for similar feats of bravery. The difference in recognition remains a stark reminder of the discrimination Serna faced—a hero withheld the full honor of his service because of his background.

"LULAC has a long history of supporting our military and will continue to do so," says Palomares. "It is only fitting that America honors those who have stood with it and are loyal to its flag, even in the face of personal danger."

Click below to listen the Interview with Historian Bernie Sargent.

###

About League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit https://lulac.org/.