Rep. Williams Presents Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II Veteran
FORT HOOD, TX – Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX-25) today presented the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II Veteran Jose Monzano Somera at Fort Hood. Mr. Somera served from 1944-1946 with units of the U.S. Army Forces in the Far East against Japanese Imperial Forces, later enlisting in the Philippine Scouts, a regular Army unit, from August 1946 until April 1949.
Congressman Williams released the following statement:
"It is a tremendous privilege to present the Congressional Gold Medal to Mr. Jose Monzano Somera at Fort Hood. This is the highest award Congress can bestow upon a civilian, and today we honor his heroism, selflessness and sacrifice. It is recognition long overdue, and I am honored to be here on behalf of the 25th District of Texas and the United States Congress."
In 2015, Congress unanimously passed the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act to collectively award the medal to Filipino veterans of WWII in honor of their service.
Congressman Roger Williams represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas and serves as a member of the House Committee on Financial Services.