Our Namesake: PFC Jesse Samaripa
Jesse Samaripa was born on November 21, 1946, to Timoteo and Carmen Samaripa of Manor, Texas, and was one of nine children. Growing up in Manor, Jesse was an excellent student and an avid athlete, spending most of his time on the baseball field.
Drafted via the Selective Service, Jesse began his tour of duty on October 18, 1966. Holding the rank of Private First Class, his military specialty was Light Weapons Infantry. He was attached to B Company, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division stationed in South Vietnam.
Jesse was serving his country during the Vietnam War when he gave his all in the line of duty. On November 2, 1966, he experienced a traumatic event that resulted in the loss of his life. Official records attribute his loss to "Hostile Died of Wounds, Gun Small Arms Fire, Ground Casualty in South Vietnam."
Jesse Samaripa was a Vietnam War Gold Star Veteran from Texas.
Service Awards
- Bronze Star
- Purple Heart
- Combat Infantryman Badge
- Marksmanship Badge
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Campaign Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal
- Army Presidential Unit Citation
- Vietnam Gallantry Cross
In Remembrance
Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall
Washington D.C.
Panel 12E, Line 11
