Agustín Ramos Calero

Sergeant First Class Agustín Ramos Calero (June 2, 1919 – February 10, 1989) was awarded 22 decorations and medals from the U.S. Army for his actions during World War II and the Korean War, thus becoming the most decorated Puerto Rican and Hispanic soldier in the United States military during that war.

Early years Calero was born and raised in the town of Isabela, Puerto Rico, which is located in the northern region of Puerto Rico. The economic situation in Puerto Rico during the 1930s was difficult as a result of the Great Depression. Due to the shortage of jobs in the island, many Puerto Ricans joined the United States Army which offered a guaranteed income.

Korean War Calero returned to Puerto Rico and was reassigned once more to the 65th Infantry Regiment. The 65th Infantry departed from Puerto Rico on August 26, 1950, when the United States became involved in the Korean War. They arrived in Pusan, Korea on September 23. In Korea, Calero was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the regiment. He was the personal assistant to the regimental commander, Brigadier General (then Colonel) William W. Harris.

Later years Calero retired from the United States Army in 1962 after total of 21 years of service with the rank of Sergeant First Class. At the end of his years, Calero suffered from terminal cancer. Sergeant First Class Agustín Ramos Calero died on February 10, 1989, at 69 years of age and was buried with full military honors in the Puerto Rico National Cemetery in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.

Awards and Decorations Among Calero's decorations were the following: alt=A metal device depicting a blue bar with a rifle, in front of a wreath of silver leaves.

Croix de GuerreCross of Valor

Other Honors His hometown, Isabela, honored his memory by naming an avenue after him.

In 2020 SFC Agustín Ramos Calero was posthumously inducted to the Puerto Rico Veterans Hall of Fame.

In 2022 SFC Agustín Ramos Calero was posthumously inducted to the 3rd Infantry Division Marne Hall of Fame.