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Mexican American Forgotten in History

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World War II brought forward the opportunity for many Mexican Americans to show their commitment to this country . United states was lacking men labor because of the recruitment of men for the army. This gave hope for many that wanted to escape their harsh lives back at home. This war was a fight for power and United States needed more support, which led them seeking help. Latinos made great contributions in World War II efforts but still are those like Ken Burns who believes otherwise . World war II brought a turning point in the construction of Mexican American civil rights awareness. Our thoughts and believes are shaped by what we are presented as the truth which means we are shaped because of those who believe things happened one …show more content…

The heroes of Mexican decent were part of the front lines of combat and there were those who had better opportunities, getting ranked higher than other Mexican American soldiers. According to historian Albert Camarillo, Mexican American soldiers distinguished themselves in nearly every major campaign of World War II: The Heroes of Mexican descent were numerous, their bravery exemplified by their being the most decorated ethnic group of the World War II. Many of the medals of valor granted to Chicanos were awarded posthumously. There was a disproportionate number of the Mexicans American casualties relative to the group’s percentage of the total population. Though Mexicans of Los Angeles, for example, accounted for about twenty percent of the Angelenos killed in action. Losses were especially high in such “all chicano companies” as Company E of the 141st regiment of the 36th (Texas) divisions where all but twenty-three of the soldiers were killed in the Mediterranean campaigns.
The majority of these men were not officer but rather were infantrymen who had the front–line duties. Not one single American of Mexican decent ever charged with cowardice or treason because they never deserted their obligation to their nation. “Mexican American soldiers shed at least a quarter of blood spilled at Bataan…What they want now is a decent job, a decent home, and a chance to live peacefully in the community. They don’t want to be shot at in the dark.”

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