CPL Joseph Vega

CPL Joseph Vega was born 29 Jan 1924 in New York City. He was the only child of Joseph and Mary N. Vega. Both parents were born in Puerto Rico and moved to New York City in search of economic opportunity. His father worked as a machinist, cigar maker and some other jobs to support his family. The family lived at 60 East 103rd Street in New York for many years. Joseph was able to complete 4-years of high school. 

Joseph was drafted in February 1943 and after completing his basic military training was sent to England. PFC Vega was transferred from the replacement depot to M Company 116th Infantry on 28 Jun 1944 to serve as a light mortar crewman. He was promoted to CPL on 19 Aug 1944. He continued to serve with M Company until killed in action on 25 Nov 1944 near Engelsdorf, Germany. 

CPL Vega was repatriated and re-interred in Long Island National Cemetery in East Farmingdale, New York.