Article:
Posthumous Celebration for Puerto Rican Who Died in Action
“El Mundo” Newspaper – January 29, 1953
Rafael Balzac Tried to Rescue Companion
A Silver Star medal was awarded posthumously to a soldier who was mortally wounded by the enemy while he was carrying a wounded companion on his shoulders in an attempt to place him in a secure place and out of danger. Sergeant Mayor Rafael E. Balzac has been selected for this decoration, which is considered the third highest decoration conferred to its heroes by the United States. Sgt. Balzac demostrated extraordinary heroism during an attack to an enemy position near Yu-hyon, Korea on June 19, 1952. The last postal direction left by Sgt. Balzac with the leaders of his regiment was: Block J-27, Caparra Heights, San Juan, Puerto Rico. No mention was made of his nearest relative.