Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott posthumously presented the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to U.S. Army Sergeant Major Jerry Lynn Bell and U.S. Army Master Sergeant Mike Peña during a ceremony at the Texas Capitol. The Texas Legislative Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration conferred to a service member of the Texas military forces.

“Today, we honor two men who raised their hand and answered the call for our country,” said Governor Abbott. “Each of these men continued a tradition of heroism that extends back to the very dawn of this great nation. These brave service members showed that despite all of the division America has endured, there are still selfless souls willing to put down their civilian lives and put on the uniform of the United States to safeguard our freedom. We will never forget the sacrifices both Sergeant Major Bell and Master Sergeant Peña made for our country, and today we honor them for their heroic efforts.”

Senator Kelly Hancock nominated U.S. Army Sergeant Major Bell and Representative Terry Wilson nominated U.S. Army Master Sergeant Peña for the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.

U.S. Army Sergeant Major Bell was recognized for his valiant service during the Vietnam War, and U.S. Army Master Sergeant Peña was recognized for his service in World War II and giving his life to save his fellow soldiers during the Korean War. The awards were accepted by members of Sergeant Major Bell and Master Sergeant Peña's respective families.

U.S. Army Sergeant Major Bell, a fourth-generation Texan, enlisted in the U.S. Army in Houston and served with distinction during the Vietnam War. His courageous actions in a mission in 1970 earned him several commendations, including the Purple Heart, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Bronze Star with "V" device. After retiring from the military, he continued to serve his community in various capacities, including as a mayor.

U.S. Army Master Sergeant Peña, born to Mexican immigrants, enlisted in the army in 1940 and fought in both World War II and the Korean War. His heroic stand in Korea in 1950, where he held back the enemy singlehandedly until being fatally wounded, earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Cross and the Congressional Medal of Honor.

The Governor was joined at the ceremony by other officials and service members, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of these two distinguished individuals.