How easily we forget the unsung heroes. Right here, in the heart of San Antonio, stands the Pershing Chinese Plaque. This unassuming marker commemorates a fascinating and often overlooked chapter in both American and Chinese history. The Pershing Chinese Plaque tells the story of over 500 Chinese refugees who fled persecution in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution. In 1917, General John J. Pershing, leading a punitive expedition against Pancho Villa, encountered these refugees. Fearing for their safety, he brought them to Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. These Chinese refugees, denied entry under the Chinese Exclusion Act, found themselves in a strange land. Yet they didn’t back down from hard work. They worked as laborers, carpenters, and cooks, supporting the war effort during World War I at Camp Travis, Fort Sam Houston, and Kelly Field. General Pershing, recognizing their contributions, championed their cause. In 1921, thanks to his efforts, Congress passed a resolution granting them permanent residency. The Pershing Chinese Plaque stands as a testament to their resilience, their contributions to the United States, and the power of compassion in the face of adversity. They truly embody the American spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of a better life.
The Pershing Chinese Plaque
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