A Salute to Cape Verdean-American Vets on Memorial Day
Acclaimed photographer Ronald Barboza has spent much of his life using photos to document the Cape Verdean culture, both around the world and in New Bedford.
In 2013, Barboza displayed photos of 43 Cape Verdean-American soldiers and sailors during an event at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, to honor their courage and valor during World War II.
Now the "Class of 43" has dwindled down to 12, and Barboza wants to honor those surviving members this Memorial Day by posting their pictures on Facebook.
All of the 12 are at least 90 years old, and served in combat in Europe, Burma, and the Pacific. Their stories are compelling; Antone Semedo of Wareham arrived in Normandy on D-Day, Frank Grace of New Bedford was part of General George Patton's "Red Ball Express," and William "Billy" Carmo of New Bedford enlisted at the end of World War II, then re-enlisted in the Air force and fought in Korea.
Barboza told WBSM's Brian Thomas on Saturday, these veterans did their job in the face of segregation and outright discrimination while serving in the Armed Forces.
"The worldwide Cape Verdean community, as well as the entire SouthCoast, salutes you for your selfless contribution in helping America win the war," he said.
To learn more about the service of the 12 Cape Verdean veterans visit https://www.facebook.com/ronald.barboza.71