Father & son, both Veterans, honored for their service and sacrifice
A father and son who fought in two of America’s most historic wars were honored for their dedication and service to the country by Congressman Doctor Raul Ruiz.
“Every time we can have our veterans tell their stories and their family stories then we come to a deeper understanding not only the sacrifice but the heroism,” Ruiz told KESQ & CBS Local 2.
Kenneth Rasco grew up in Riverside and enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 17 years old in 1946. He served in World War II until its end in 1945 and continued service until 1946. In 1948, he served once again, driving military ambulances in San Diego from 1948.
Today Kenneth was honored for service and awarded:
Combat Action Ribbon China Service Medal (Extended) American Campaign Medal Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal w/ 1 bronze star WWII Victory Medal Navy Occupation Service Medal (w/ Asia Clasp)
Kenneth’s son Kenny was also honored today. Kenny enlisted in 1967 at 18 years old and served in the Vietnam War as an Infantryman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marines 1st Marine Division. He was killed in action on January 28th,1968.
Kenny was posthumously honored and awarded for his service and his sacrifice for this country. He received:
Purple Heart Presidential Unit Citation National Defense Service Medal Vietnam Service Medal w/ 1 bronze service star
Kenny’s family accepted the awards on his behalf.
“I’m very humbled to be in the midst of a great family. They have a legacy of service to our country that starts in World War I with a great-great-grandfather, then World War II with Kenneth, and to honor not only Kenneth but his son Kenny who died in Vietnam,”
After finishing his service, Kenneth Rasco drove trucks for over 30 years and was also a skilled carpenter. He attended Long Beach Automotive School. He currently resides in Hemet with his wife.
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Noticias en español: Telemundo 15
