Surviving World War II Filipino American veterans and next of kin during the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal. (Photo Courtesy of Mr. Mark Salondaka)
The United States Congress enacted the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 and signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 14, 2016.
The historic recognition was attended by around 800 guests mostly from the Filipino American community in Hawaii. Among others who graced the event were State of Hawaii Governor David Ige, Deputy Commander of the US Pacific Command Lieutenant General Bryan Fenton, US Pacific Fleet Director Rear Admiral Victorino Mercado, Major General Antonio Taguba (retired), State of Hawaii and City and County of Honolulu officials and Ms. Maya Kasandra Soetero-Ng, the sister of former US President Barack Obama.
The Congressional Gold Medal award was given to more or less 150 recipients including proud and teary eyed remaining World War II Filipino American veterans and next of kin for posthumous recipients. Consul General Jimeno had the honor to receive the award on behalf of his late father Eleutario Jimeno who was a guerilla during the World War.
Consul General Jimeno also delivered an inspirational message during the event and congratulated all the recipients and family members. (END)
ConGen Jimeno, Ms. Maya Soetero-Ng and State of Hawaii Governor David Ige. (Photo credits: Jeffrey de Mesa)
