Marine Sgt. Jesus Roberto Vasquez - 1959

Jesus Roberto during his younger years before attending Jefferson High School. He enlisted in the Marines after graduating in 1965 and completed his basic training at Camp Pendleton, California. On Sunday, September 15, 2010, State Representative District 78 Joseph E. Moody in a Resolution Tribute said "WHEREAS, An explosive ordnance disposal technician, Sergeant Vasquez was assigned to the Ammunition Company, Supply Battalion, First Force Service Regiment/Force Logistic Command at Khe Sanh Combat Base; during an attack on the base that ignited part of its ammunition supply, he picked up a burning mortar shell and tried to throw it out of harm's way; though he died in the attempt, he saved the lives of many fellow soldiers in his platoon; for his selfless courage, he was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, three campaign medals, and two arm patches. WHEREAS, Our state and nation are fortunate to have men and women whose love of country leads them to military service, and time can never diminish the profound debt that Americans owe to Jesus Vasquez for the challenge he undertook and the sacrifice he rendered; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That tribute be paid to the life of U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jesus Roberto Vasquez."

Area: Central / San Juan

Source: Vasquez Family

Uploaded by: El Paso Museum of History