Torres Holds Medal Ceremony for Family of World War II Veteran
Pomona, CA — Yesterday, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) hosted a posthumous medal awards ceremony for the family of late veteran Lt. Adriano Barcelona Cartagena. Lieutenant Cartagena served in the Philippines during World War II, and his family now resides in Pomona. Lieutenant Cartagena's family came to the office seeking his service records, only to find out he was owed 8 medals and ribbons for his military service.
"Lieutenant Cartagena served our nation proudly and with honor," said Congresswoman Torres. "Unfortunately, he was not able to receive all that he was owed during his life. I was so honored to help ensure his family received these medals, and that we could in some small measure pay back the sacrifices he made for our nation."
The medals and ribbons presented to Lieutenant Cartagena's family were:
- Bronze Star
- Prisoner of War
- American Defense Service
- World War II Victory
- Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award
- Philippine Defense Ribbon and Bronze Star
- Philippine Liberation Ribbon
- Philippine Independence Ribbon
Mr. Cartagena was commissioned as a First Lieutenant at the outset of the Second World War under General Douglas MacArthur. Many Filipino-Americans answered President Roosevelt's call for help, including Lieutenant Cartagena. After initial defeats at the hands of the Japanese Imperial Army, Lieutenant Cartagena continued to fight, but was eventually captured. After spending time as a prisoner of war, he later escaped and continued to fight as a guerrilla.
"This case serves as a reminder of the debt that we owe to all our veterans," continued Torres. "I will continue to fight to ensure that our veterans have all the help they need- from health care to educational assistance, and beyond."
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