Film details Hispanic Marine's acts in WWII

[AlphaCentauri]

MIAMI (AP) — Armed but alone, Marine Pfc. Guy Gabaldon roamed Saipan's caves and pillboxes, persuading enemy soldiers and civilians to surrender during the hellish World War II battle on the island.

Using the Japanese language skills he learned as a boy, he warned the Japanese they would die if they stayed hidden and told them Marines were not torturers as they had heard. The Marines, he said, would feed them and give them medical care. Many agreed, and Gabaldon, just 18, led them back to U.S. lines.

By the battle's end, Gabaldon had coaxed more than 1,000 Japanese out of the steamy caves. He was praised as being brave and compassionate, and he received a Silver Star — later upgraded to a Navy Cross. His actions were recounted on television and in movies.

Now, almost two years after his death, there is a renewed campaign to give Gabaldon the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award. A new documentary, "East L.A. Marine," asks whether Gabaldon's Hispanic heritage prevented him from receiving the medal, though others blame his tough and outspoken nature.

Critics question whether Gabaldon deserves the medal, saying his feats do not measure up to those of others on Saipan.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jlhOlHcycJkIbREbYrnYgG6MnIWQD90EBJL80

[Cirque du So-What]

1. Heard about Gabaldon & the upcoming movie on NPR recently

The critics can go soak their heads, AFAIC. Gabaldon's accomplishments saved a good many lives on both sides. Bravery isn't measured strictly by body counts or rounds of ammo fired.