Medal of Honor: Salvador J. Lara - World War II - May 27-28, 1944
Near Aprilia, Italy, American infantrymen fought through brutal German defenses during the Anzio breakout. One wounded squad leader refused to stop, driving the attack forward until the objective was taken.
May 28, 2026
Name: Salvador J. Lara
Rank: Private First Class
Branch: U.S. Army
War: World War II
Unit: Company L, 180th Infantry Regiment
Date of Action: May 27-28, 1944
Location: Aprilia, Italy
Summary of Action
On 27 and 28 May 1944, Private First Class Salvador J. Lara displayed extraordinary heroism during combat operations near Aprilia, Italy, during the Allied breakout from the Anzio beachhead.
As American forces attacked heavily defended German positions, Lara aggressively led his rifle squad against multiple enemy strongpoints.
Throughout the fighting on 27 May, he repeatedly pushed his men forward through intense enemy resistance, personally helping neutralize fortified positions and inflicting heavy casualties on German defenders.
Despite the danger and relentless fire, Lara’s leadership kept the assault moving and inspired the soldiers around him to continue advancing.
The following morning, as his company resumed the attack against enemy positions, Lara was severely wounded in the leg.
Although suffering intense pain, he refused medical treatment and continued fighting beside his men.
Ignoring his wound, he pressed the attack forward and maintained command of his squad during the advance.
Lara continued his fearless performance until his company successfully captured its objective.
His extraordinary courage, determination, and refusal to abandon the mission despite serious wounds reflected the highest traditions of the United States Army.
Medal of Honor Citation
LARA, SALVADOR J.
