Flowers served during World War II from 1940 to 1945 as a first lieutenant and pilot with the 99th Fighter Squadron, part of the 332nd Fighter Group, known as the historic Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces, helping break racial barriers and pave the way for future generations of service members.
Source: New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
Photos: Courtesy
LAS CRUCES — James C. Flowers, 110, of Las Cruces was awarded the New Mexico Medal of Merit at his home on March 20 in recognition of a lifetime of service, sacrifice and dedication to his country.
Brigadier General Retired Jamison Herrera, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, presented the award on behalf of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Flowers served during World War II from 1940 to 1945 as a first lieutenant and pilot with the 99th Fighter Squadron, part of the 332nd Fighter Group, known as the historic Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces, helping break racial barriers and pave the way for future generations of service members.
Following his military service, Flowers dedicated his career to education, working as a schoolteacher in New York City. After retiring, he and his wife relocated to New Mexico. His legacy of service continues through his family, which includes six doctors among his children and grandchildren.
Following his military service, Flowers dedicated his career to education, working as a schoolteacher in New York City. After retiring, he and his wife relocated to New Mexico. His legacy of service continues through his family, which includes six doctors among his children and grandchildren.
Born Dec. 25, 1915, Flowers has witnessed more than a century of American history. Now a resident of Las Cruces, he remains a living testament to the Greatest Generation.
New Mexico proudly honors Flowers for a lifetime of service that not only defended a nation but helped define it for generations to come.
World War II Veterans honored with Congressional Gold Medals
U.S. Army White Sands Missile Range (via Facebook)
May 21,2026
The families of three World War II Veterans received the Congressional Gold Medal during a presentation March 20 at the Post Theater in recognition of their service as part of Pre-Bataan Memorial Death March events.
The Congressional Gold Medal is an award bestowed by Congress and is the highest civilian award in the United States. The decoration is awarded to an individual or unit who performs an outstanding deed or act of service to the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The U.S. Mint designs a special and unique medal to commemorate the achievement of the recipient of the award.
On October 25, 2017, the U.S. Congress awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to all Filipino and American Soldiers who fought in the Philippines during World War II. It is our nation’s highest civilian honor.
Maj. Gen. (retired) Antonio Taguba was present at the ceremony where White Sands Missile Range Garrison Commander Col. Don Mozer presented the award to the following descendants:
Valentino C. Juanitas, a Philippine Scout and Private First Class, served as a Military Policeman in the 86th Field Artillery Battalion from 1941 to 1947, stationed at Fort Stotsenburg, Philippines. His son Fernando A. Juanitas and grandson Sean A. Juanitas were present to accept the medal.
Chief Petty Officer Leon San Juan Anterola served in the United States Navy from 1918 to 1948. He held roles as Chief Steward and Fire Controlman and was assigned to the USS Kewaydin, USS Vestal, and the Submarine Base in Coco Solo, Canal Zone, under the command of the U.S. Naval Forces Philippines. Accepting the medal on his behalf was his daughter Cathy Johnson.
Conrado V. Castroverde served as a Private First Class with Company H, 57th Infantry Regiment-Philippine Scouts. After the Liberation of the Philippines, he completed his military career as a Corporal with Company B, 4th Military Police Battalion, U.S. Army. Accepting the medal was his son Caesar Cantroverde.
“This award ceremony is a once in a lifetime event,” Taguba said.
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