Hirono, Gabbard Present Filipino World War II Veterans with Congressional Gold Medal

Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI),Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), and congressional leaders presented the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II veterans. The presentation ceremony was the culmination of Hirono and Gabbard’s years-long effort to recognize Filipino World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’ highest civilian honor. More than 250,000 Filipino soldiers served alongside U.S. soldiers in World War II and more than 57,000 died fighting for the U.S. After the war ended, President Harry S. Truman signed laws that stripped away promises of benefits and citizenship for Filipino veterans. “After bravely serving our country, it is frankly shameful that these veterans had to fight so hard for what they were promised,” Hirono said. “Today, these brave soldiers are finally receiving the recognition they earned and deserve, and join the ranks of heroic units like the Tuskegee Airmen and Hawaii’s own 442nd/100th Infantry Battalion as we honor them with the Congressional Gold Medal—our nation’s highest civilian honor", said Gabbard. Today, only 18,000 Filipino veterans are still alive. Maraming salamat po sa inyong paglilingkod or serbisyo. More here.