Cleto rodriguez biography of barack

Cleto L. Rodríguez (April 26, 1923 – December 7, 1990) was an American of Mexican descent who served in both the U.S. Army, and in the U.S. Air Force, and received the Medal of Honor for actions in Manila, Philippines during World War II.

Early years

Cleto Rodríguez, a Mexican-American, was born and lived in San Marcos, Texas until his parents died when he was nine years old. After the death of his parents he was sent to live with relatives in San Antonio, Texas.

As a boy he worked for the Gunter Hotel as a newsboy. He enlisted in the United States Army in early 1944 where he served as a Private in Company B, 148th Infantry, 37th Infantry Division.

World War II

In Manila on February 9, 1945, Cleto's platoon was ordered to initiate an assault against the Paco Railroad Station that was being held by the Japanese.

While crossing an open field in front of the railroad station, his platoon was stopped 100 yards from the station by intense Japanese gun