Banda To Be Recognized During Mexican Fiesta 2012 For Receiving The Silver Star Of Gallantry

George F. Banda

All Latino veterans to be honored at the weekend Mexican festival.

By H. Nelson Goodson

August 18, 2012

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Saturday, U.S. Army Veteran Specialist 4th Class George F. Banda who earned the Silver Star of gallantry will be honored at Mexican Fiesta 2012 along with other Latino veterans who served in U.S. Wars and conflicts, according to Juan Alvarez, a Vietnam Vet and former Commander of the American G.I. Forum. Banda, a Mexican-American soldier was born and raised in Milwaukee. He was later drafted during the Vietnam War and then received the Silver Star for gallantry and bravery.
Banda was awarded the Silver Star Medal for Gallantry in Action, Bronze Star Medal for Heroism in Ground Combat, Bronze Star for Meritorious Service, Purple Heart Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the RVN Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Palm. 

Banda is most likely the only one of two other Silver Star recipients still living, according to Alvarez. Alvarez stated, "For my part, I served my country with honor, dignity and I fought bravely against communism. But never once, upon my return from Vietnam did anyone appreciate the service I performed for my country in the line of duty. There were no parades, no fanfare, and no welcoming reception or greeters cheering you on at the airport in Milwaukee. I mention this only because this public acknowledgement by Mexican Fiesta means a lot to veterans like me...I have been waiting almost forty-five years for something like this."

Band succeeded Alvarez as the current Commander of the American G.I. Forum.

Mexican Fiesta runs from August 24 thru the 26 at Milwaukee's Summerfest grounds.

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