As early as 1901 the U.S. Army had organized the first Philippine Scouts, whose familiarity with their home terrain made them an invaluable asset. In the years leading up to World War I ...

Pvt. José Nisperos, the first Filipino Medal of Honor recipient, was a member of the U.S. Army Philippine Scouts. Shown here are Philippine Scouts at Camp John Hay in the Philippines around 1920.