The 35th Infantry Regiment Association salutes our fallen brother, PFC John Jerald Almanza, who died in the service of his country on August 26th, 1967 in Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam. The cause of death was listed as Booby Trap. At the time of his death John was 19 years of age. He was from Santa Ana, California. John is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Panel 25E, Line 45.

The decorations earned by PFC John Jerald Almanza include: the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation.

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John is buried in the Fairhaven Memorial Park, Santa Ana, CA

(From His Obituary, "The Register," September 3 1967)

PFC John (Jerry) Almanza, age 19, of 1321 West 8th Street, Santa Ana, passed away August 26, 1967. Survived by parents, Mr. and Mrs. Trinidad M. Almanza; two sisters, Miss Evangeline Almanza and Mrs. Barbara Johnson; and one brother, David Almanza, all of Santa Clara.

John was a native of Santa Ana and graduated from Santa Ana High School in 1966. He was an accomplished athlete, winning several awards in the high and low hurdles.

Services will be September 5 and 8:30 pm at Smith and Tuthill Chapel with internment at Fairhaven Memorial Park.

(His BSM Citation)

The Bronze Star Medal is presented to Private First Class John J Almanza for meritorious operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. During August 1967 Private First Class Almanza distinguished himself while serving as an infantryman with D, 1/35th Infantry. Although he was with his unit only a short time, Private First Class John J Almanza showed himself to be a dedicated soldier who constantly strove to improve himself and those around him; setting an example by his cheerfulness and enthusiasm. His diligence, determination, and ability made him a valuable asset to his unit. Private First Class John J Almanza's performance in combat was that of a professional soldier. At all times his dedication to duty and personal conduct was unimpeachable. He was mortally wounded by an antipersonnel mine in the course of a search and destroy mission near Duc Pho on August 26 1967. Private First Class John J Almanza's actions are in keeping with the best traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.