US destroyer to be named after only Filipino in US Navy awarded the Medal of Honor

An Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer will be named after a Filipino who risked his life when he rescued his shipmates during a boiler explosion in onboard the USS San Diego in 1915, the Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced.

"The future USS Telesforo Trinidad (DDG 139) will honor Fireman 2nd Class Telesforo De La Cruz Trinidad, the only Filipino in the US Navy to be awarded the Medal of Honor," Del Toro said in a press release.

Del Toro said he first learned of the story of Petty Officer Telesforo Trinidad when he was a midshipman at the Naval Academy and he decided to honor the Filipino's heroic actions.

"This ship and her future crew will be a critical piece in strengthening our maritime superiority while also emphasizing the rich culture and history of our naval heritage," he added.

According to the statement posted by the US Navy, Trinidad was born November 25, 1890 in Aklan Province, Panay Island.

The incident occurred on January 21, 1915 when Trinidad was serving aboard the USS San Diego.

The captain of the ship decided to conduct a four-hour full-speed and endurance trial to determine if the ship could still maintain its officially rated flank speed.

After the trial, an obstructed tube in one of the ship’s boilers gave way, creating a chain reaction. Trinidad re-entered the closed space to the No. 2 boiler to save Fireman 2nd Class R. W. Daly. As he was carrying Daly through the No. 4 fireroom, an explosion of No. 3 boiler hit Trinidad, which burned him in the face. After seeing Daly to safety and despite his injuries, Trinidad then assisted in rescuing another injured shipmate from the No. 3 fireroom.

"I am pleased to honor Trinidad’s life and legacy today – especially during Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month," said Del Toro.

"Having a ship named after such a significant figure highlights our diverse culture and that our people will always be our strategic advantage against any adversary. I hope the naming of this ship is a beacon for not only Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders but for all our Sailors, Marines, and civilians who serve across the Department of the Navy. The service and sacrifice of these men and women have made our military and our nation stronger and better," he added.

Based on the US Navy statement, Trinidad survived and lived a long life, finally passing away at the age of 77 on 8 May 1968 in Imus, Cavite. -- BAP, GMA News