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By KTRK staff
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Houston, Texas (KTRK– Four Chinese-American veterans who survived World War II and others received one of the country’s highest civilian honors on Sunday.
In a ceremony commemorating their service, veterans and the families of more than 175 others received the Congressional Gold Medal, an award expressing the nation’s appreciation for their accomplishments.
The event, hosted by the Southern Regional Congress Gold Medal Committee of the Chinese American Citizens Alliance, recognizes veterans from nine states, including Texas.
Retired Army Major General Robert Lee was among those who helped celebrate the occasion, and the humility of those honored was not lost on him.
“If we had started 25-30 years earlier, the veterans themselves would have stopped this effort,” Lee said. “They would have said it wasn’t necessary, we just did our job. They were all humble. They never told their sons or daughters about their service.
An estimated 20,000 Chinese Americans served in all branches of the US military, although 40% of them were excluded by law at the time of citizenship. History shows that they served with pride and courage.
It is estimated that between 500 and 1,000 Chinese-American WWII veterans still live, according to the Chinese-American WWII Veterans Recognition Project.
Jeannie Moon was there with his father, Bock Mah, who received his medal with the others.
“I’m so happy because, you know, he’s going to be 99 in October, so to see him receive him in person is a great honor,” Moon said.
Congress authorized the medal, its highest civilian honor, in 2018.
This recognition comes 76 years after the end of World War II.
“I am truly honored to serve my great country,” said recipient Lewis W. Yee.
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