Public Information

Name

Mendoza, Manuel

Class

2014

Biography

(1922-2001) Born in Miami, Arizona. Known as the “Arizona Kid” for his heroism during WWII at Mount Battaglia, Italy, October 4, 1944. While serving as platoon sergeant, Company B, 350th Infantry Battalion, 88th Infantry Division. Wounded, and outnumbered, Mendoza singlehandedly broke up a fierce German counterattack on his unit’s position. His actions earned award of the Distinguished Service Cross. Mendoza reenlisted from the Arizona Army National Guard to serve in the Korean War where he was wounded in battle. In 2002, Congress called for the review of war records of certain veterans. Mendoza was among 24 Army veterans awarded the Medal Of Honor by the President on March 18, 2014. He is the 24th Arizonan to receive the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor Recipient

YES