Private Nisperos was the first Filipino and first Asian American to be awarded the Medal of Honor. He later died in Basilan, one of the islands comprising the Sulu Archipelago.
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Private Nisperos was the first Filipino and first Asian American to be awarded the Medal of Honor. He later died in Basilan, one of the islands comprising the Sulu Archipelago.
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The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Jose B. Nisperos, United States Army, for most distinguished gallantry on 24 September 1911, while serving with 34th Company, Philippine Scouts, in action at Lapurap, Basilan Island, Philippine Islands. Having been badly wounded (his left arm was broken and lacerated and he had received several spear wounds in the body so that he could not stand), Private Nisperos continued to fire his rifle with one hand until the enemy was repulsed, thereby aiding materially in preventing the annihilation of his party and the mutilation of their bodies.