Watch video – WWII Latino hero to be recognized in documentary to be released April 8

Posted by Elena del Valle on April 4, 2008

East LA Marine: The Untold True Story of Guy Gabaldon DVD cover

Photos, video: Arts Alliance America

On April 8, Arts Alliance America will release a new documentary on DVD about a Latino WWII war hero. The 77-minute film, East LA Marine: The Untold True Story of Guy Gabaldon, narrated by Freddie Prinze Jr. in English sets out to tell the story of U.S. Marine PFC Guy Gabaldon posthumously. The film producers support a national campaign to award the Congressional Medal of Honor to Gabaldon. Scroll down to watch a preview of East LA Marine: The Untold True Story of Guy Gabaldon.

Guy Gabaldon

Financed by Fast Carrier Pictures, the film was produced and directed by Steve Rubin in 2006. Gabaldon died on August 31, 2006 without ever receiving the recognition many believe was his due perhaps in part because of his Latino heritage. During the bloody struggle for Saipan in July 1944, Gabaldon is officially credited with capturing over 1,500 Japanese soldiers and civilians. This, according to the film promoters, was accomplished single-handedly and is a record in the annals of American military history.

Gabaldon’s war accomplishments were portrayed in the film Hell to Eternity around 1960. Some credit him with sharing his experience and using his celebrity to inspire new generations who valued bravery and bravado, and helping wayward teenagers in the Mariana Islands when he returned there in 1980.

Arts Alliance America, formerly known as Hart Sharp Video, was founded in January 2003. It is a home entertainment company that develops, acquires, markets and distributes DVDs in the film, documentaries, special interest and sports genres. The company has partnerships with TV Guide, E! Entertainment Television, Sundance Channel Home Entertainment, ESPN, MLB Productions, and Bombo Sports and Entertainment.