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The Ghosts of Hero Street
  • Published: 15 January 2017
  • ISBN: 9780425262542
  • Imprint: Dutton
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 352
  • RRP: $60.00
Categories:

The Ghosts of Hero Street

How One Small Mexican-American Community Gave So Much in World War II and Korea

Formats & editions
Paperback
15 Jan 2017
EBook
6 May 2014
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The trade paperback edition of THE GHOSTS OF HERO STREET, the inspiring true story of a group of WWII and Korean War Mexican-American soldiers from the small street in Illinois that sent more of its boys into battle than any other place its size in the country. Today, it is known as Hero Street.

“A wonderful American story of the extraordinary sacrifices made by a group of Mexican Americans . . . A shining example of patriotism at its best.”—Former U.S. Representative Tom Railsback

They came from one street, but death found them in many places. . . in a distant jungle, a frozen forest, and trapped in the flaming wreckage of a bomber blown from the sky. They all came from a single street in Silvis, Illinois, a dirt road barely a block and a half long, with an unparalleled history.

The Mexican-American families who lived on that one street sent fifty-seven of their children to fight in World War II and Korea—more than any other place that size anywhere in the country. Eight of those children died. It’s a distinction recognized by the Department of Defense, one that earned that strip a distinguished name: Hero Street.

This is the story of those brave men and their families, how they fought both in battle and to be accepted in a society that remained biased against them even after they returned home as heroes. Based on interviews with relatives, friends, and soldiers who served alongside the men, as well as personal letters and photographs, The Ghosts of Hero Street is the compelling and inspiring account of a street of soldiers—and men—who would not be denied their dignity or their honor.

INCLUDES PHOTOS
  • Published: 15 January 2017
  • ISBN: 9780425262542
  • Imprint: Dutton
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 352
  • RRP: $60.00
Categories:

Praise for The Ghosts of Hero Street

"Thank you to Carlos Harrison for telling this important story of the brave young Mexican-Americans from western Illinois who left their immigrant families behind and volunteered to serve their country during World War II. While many made the ultimate sacrifice and died fighting to preserve the freedom of our great nation, the story of Hero Street is also about the perseverance and values of the families and community they left behind in Silvis. It is truly because of the sacrifices made by families like those who have called Hero Street home, and the brave young men from Hero Street who put their lives on the line for us, that the American Dream is still alive today."--Congresswoman Cheri Bustos

"A wonderful American story of the extraordinary sacrifices made by a group of Mexican Americans...A shining example of patriotism at its best."--Former U.S. Rep. Tom Railsback

"When our servicemen and women risk their lives for the security of our families and communities, we must stop and reflect on the immensity of their sacrifice. The Ghost of Hero Street reminds us why we must be appreciative, and teaches us how we should say thank you." --Former HUD secretary and San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros

"Versatile journalist and author Harrison explores the moving microcosm of pride and patriotism within a Mexican-American Illinois railroad community...Harrison deftly marshals the intricate details of battle, hardship and victory."--Kirkus Reviews

"Thank you to Carlos Harrison for telling this important story of the brave young Mexican-Americans from western Illinois who left their immigrant families behind and volunteered to serve their country during World War II. While many made the ultimate sacrifice and died fighting to preserve the freedom of our great nation, the story of Hero Street is also about the perseverance and values of the families and community they left behind in Silvis. It is truly because of the sacrifices made by families like those who have called Hero Street home, and the brave young men from Hero Street who put their lives on the line for us, that the American Dream is still alive today."--Congresswoman Cheri Bustos

"A wonderful American story of the extraordinary sacrifices made by a group of Mexican Americans...A shining example of patriotism at its best."--Former U.S. Rep. Tom Railsback

"When our servicemen and women risk their lives for the security of our families and communities, we must stop and reflect on the immensity of their sacrifice. The Ghost of Hero Street reminds us why we must be appreciative, and teaches us how we should say thank you." --Former HUD secretary and San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros

"Versatile journalist and author Harrison explores the moving microcosm of pride and patriotism within a Mexican-American Illinois railroad community...Harrison deftly marshals the intricate details of battle, hardship and victory."--Kirkus Reviews