José B. Nísperos
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José Balitón Nísperos (December 30, 1887 – September 1, 1922) was a member of the Philippine Scouts who received the Medal of Honor during the Moro Rebellion.[6] He was the first Asian to be awarded the medal.[7] On September 24, 1911, at Lapurap, Basilan, Philippines, Nísperos, a member of the U.S. Army's 34th Company of the Philippine Scouts, defended his unit's position against natives armed with spears despite being severely wounded.[8] Nísperos became the first Filipino and Asian to receive the Medal of Honor; the medal was presented by Brigadier General Bell in February 1913.[3][9]
José Balitón Nísperos[1] | |
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Born | (1887-12-30)December 30, 1887 San Fernando, La Union, Captaincy General of the Philippines |
Died | September 1, 1922(1922-09-01) (aged 34) San Fernando, La Union, Philippine Islands[2][3] |
Place of burial | |
Allegiance | United States of America |
Service/ | |
Years of service | 1907 - 1912 |
Rank | Corporal |
Unit | 34th Company, Philippine Scouts |
Battles/wars | |
Awards | Medal of Honor |
Other work | Police Officer[2] |
Nisperos joined the Philippine Scouts in December 1907. Due to wounds suffered in his MOH action, he was discharged at the rank of corporal for disability in June 1912.[10]