Patriots from the Barrio

The Story of Company E, 141st Infantry: The Only All Mexican American Army Unit in World War II

De: Dave Gutierrez

Narrado por: Manuel Lara

As a child, Dave Gutierrez hung on every word his father recalled about his cousin Ramon, “El Sancudo” (the mosquito), and his service in World War II, where he earned a Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, and escaped from the Germans twice. Later, Dave decided to find out more about his father’s cousin, and in the course of his research, he discovered that Ramon Gutierrez was a member of Company E, 141st Infantry, a part of the 36th “Texas” Division that was comprised entirely of Mexican Americans - the only such unit in the entire US Army. The division landed at Salerno, Italy, in 1943, among the first American soldiers to set foot in Europe. In the ensuing months, Company E and the rest of the 36th would battle their way up the mountainous Italian peninsula against some of Nazi Germany’s best troops. In addition to the merciless rain, mud, and jagged peaks, swift cold rivers crisscrossed the region, including the Rapido, where Company E would face its greatest challenge. In an infamous episode, the 36th Division was ordered to cross the Rapido despite reports that the opposite bank was heavily defended. In the ensuing debacle, the division was ripped apart, and Company E sustained appalling casualties. The company rebounded and made the storied landings at Anzio and ultimately invaded southern France for a final push into Germany.

Based on extensive archival research and veteran and family accounts, Patriots from the Barrio brings to life the soldiers whose service should never have gone unrecognized for so long. With its memorable personalities, stories of hope and immigration, and riveting battle scenes, this beautifully written book is a testament to the shared beliefs of all who have fought for the ideals of the American flag.

The book is published by Westholme Publishing. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

©2018 Dave Gutierrez (P)2021 Redwood Audiobooks

Great history!

Great history from a unit full of warriors! It definitely gave me a different perspective about the Italy theater during WWII! Only thing it was distracting was how the narrator was jumping from one story to another without much pause!! It was distracting however the accounts of event kept me interested on what was happening next! I must say this book could be made a mini series such as Band of Brothers!

Research to write this book.

Mexican contributions to US history should never be forgotten. This book reflects the valor and proud heritage of Mexicans all over the USA.

History

The book was done very very good with passion and great story lines !!!
Great book to be proud of !!!!!

Must Read

A must read for anyone interested in stories of Mexican American heroes who served the United States of America Honorably, Proudly, and, Bravely.

Great book of Mexican American who served in WW2

I never knew of all Mexican American platoon in WW2, when I saw this book I had to listen to it, I like this book about the men and their stories of their Gallantry and sacrifice, and their history in the army.