How the US Army’s First Hispanic Four-Star General Received 2 Distinguished Service Crosses in 2 Wars
History
By Matt Fratus | September 20, 2021
Richard “Dick” E. Cavazos made history in 1982 as the US Army’s first Hispanic four-star general. However, Cavazos had already earned a revered reputation among his troops while leading combat operations during the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
During his 33-year Army career, Cavazos was awarded two Distinguished Service Crosses (one in Korea and one in Vietnam), two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, a Distinguished Flying Cross, five Bronze Stars with valor, a Purple Heart, and numerous other campaign and meritorious service medals.
The native of Kingsville, Texas, graduated from Texas Technological College, now Texas Tech University, in 1951 and then earned his commission. He later led the famous 65th Infantry Regiment, “The Borinqueneers,” during the Korean War. The US Army’s only all-Hispanic unit was attached to the 3rd Infantry Division. On the night of June 14, 1953, near the city of Sagimak, Cavazos, then a lieutenant, led his men on a daring raid against an entrenched enemy position.
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