Jose Calugas

Jose Cabalfin Calugas was a member of the Philippine Scouts during World War II who served with distinction in the U.S. Army. During the Battle of Bataan, his unit came under heavy Japanese artillery fire. Calugas voluntarily ran 1,000 yards across shell-swept terrain to a decommissioned artillery gun. He organized a volunteer squad, repaired the weapon, and put it back into action against the enemy, for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

Following the surrender of U.S. forces at Bataan, Calugas became a prisoner of war and survived the Bataan Death March. He was subsequently released and joined the guerrilla movement against Japanese forces. After the war, he received a commission as a captain in the U.S. Army, continuing his military career until his retirement.

His legacy remains a prominent symbol of Filipino-American heroism during World War II. He was the only Philippine Scout to receive the Medal of Honor during the conflict, representing the courage and sacrifice of thousands of Filipino soldiers who fought alongside American forces.