Earlier this year, Cipriano Del Bosque, a Retired U.S. Army Reserve Master Sergeant, originally from Big Spring, was presented with a Bronze Star for bravery during the Gulf War.
During Operation Desert Storm, Del Bosque served as a Staff Sergeant with the 1st Infantry Division in 418th Civil Affairs from Feb. 9 – April 15, 1991. During this time, there were multiple times that Del Bosque displayed acts of heroism.
He assisted with approximately 1,200 Kuwaiti men released by the Iraqis. Del Bosque volunteered to guide them through an area littered with mines and unexploded bombs to safety. According to Retired Lt. Col. Roy Jones, “[Del Bosque] marked the quarter-mile trail with chemical lights and instructed the Kuwaitis to follow the lights and only walk in the tire tracks of his truck. No one was injured in the dangerous walk to freedom.”
He also secured enemy prisoners of war at riffle-point and cleared enemy bunkers of their contents. Plus, he saved himself and three other officers from deadly friendly fire. While looking for any enemy presence in the desert in the dark, a British Challenger 1 tank mistook them for the enemy and was about to open fire. Del Bosque’s quick thinking led him to turn the unarmored truck to show the “friendly” sign on the side, thus avoiding potential friendly fire.
It took over 30 years for Del Bosque to be awarded the Bronze Star. US Representative Jodey Arrington presented Del Bosque with a certificate documenting the award, a U.S. Flag, and a Texas Flag. Del Bosque told KBest News that at the time he was deeply touched.
“When an American soldier receives the American flag it’s because they’re going to drape it over their coffin, and I’m still alive,” he explained.
When asked how he felt to receive the Bronze Star, Del Bosque said even though he’s being recognized as a hero, he doesn’t feel like a hero.
“I’m glad that the army recognized me and finally did it. I’m glad that they put me in for this award, but I was just doing my job and I did it the best I could. If I had the chance, I’d do it again for my country,” said Retired U.S. Army Reserve Master Sergeant.
The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight.
(Photo: KBest Media)
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