Jose Baliton Nisperos MOH

b. 30/12/1887 San Fernando, Luzon, Philippines. d. 01/09/1922 San Fernando, Luzon, Philippines.

DATE OF MOH ACTION: 24/09/1911 Lapurap, Philippines.

Jose B Nisperos MOH

Medal of Honor Recipient. He was a member of the Philippine Scouts who received the Medal of Honor during the Philippine-American War. He was the first Asian to be awarded the medal. 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. Nísperos became the first Filipino and Asian to receive the Medal of Honor; the medal was presented by Brigadier General Bell’s wife on February 3, 1913 on the parade grounds in Manila, Philippines.

 

MOH CITATION:

Having been badly wounded (his left arm was broken and lacerated and he had received several spear wounds in the body so he could not stand) 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.

 

BURIAL LOCATION: NEW MUNICIPAL CEMETERY, SAN FERNANDO, PHILIPPINES.

LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.