miliciano — Sergeant Gutierrez Marín passed away at 100 years of age | La Derecha Diario

Camara — Sergeant Gutierrez Marín passed away at 100 years of age | La Derecha Diario

The last combatant of Squadron 201 who fought in World War II has passed away.

César Gutiérrez Marín was the last member of Squadron 201, a pilot and Mexican hero of World War II

05/05/2025 11:32:00h

Editorial Team

César Maximiliano Gutiérrez, the last survivor of the legendary Squadron 201 from Mexico that fought in World War II, passed away at 100 years of age. The death was reported by the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) through an official statement.

"His legacy will endure as an example of service, esprit de corps, and patriotism for present and future generations who wear the nation's uniform"

expressed the agency.

A military officer presents a medal to a soldier while another salutes at an event with a crowd in the background.

Sergeant Gutierrez on the day of the medal | La Derecha Diario

Originally from Hermosillo, Sonora, Gutiérrez Marín was born on October 12, 1924. He joined the National Army as a signalman on July 20, 1942, later being assigned to the 201st Air Squadron. The unit of the Mexican Expeditionary Air Force (FAEM) that represented Mexico on the Pacific battlefronts during World War II.

Mexico in World War II: the honor of Squadron 201

During the largest military conflict of the 20th century,Squadron 201 was the only Mexican unit that had direct combat participation.

In June 1945, its members were sent to Luzon Island, in the Philippines. There they carried out 53 direct air support missions for allied troops, fighting against the forces of the Japanese Empire, one of the Axis powers along with Germany and Italy.

A group of military personnel in dress uniform stands at an official ceremony in Mexico, with a background showing a government poster.

The army recognized the sergeant as a war hero | La Derecha Diario

For his outstanding work, Mexico awarded Gutiérrez Marín the "Service in the Far East" medal on November 20, 1945. The country recognized his bravery, discipline, and commitment in fulfilling the mission entrusted with honor.

After decades of service, he was discharged from active duty and retired on March 31, 1970. Until his passing, he was considered a living symbol of military pride and Mexico's historical commitment to the defense of world freedom.

A soldier in camouflage uniform salutes an elderly man lying in a bed with a Mexican flag in the background.

Sergeant Gutierrez is an example of discipline and love for the homeland | La Derecha Diario

A life of honor and service

The Sedena reported that his death occurred on Saturday, May 3, and that support and corresponding benefits will be provided to his family. The Mexican Armed Forces—Army, Air Force, and National Guard—expressed their condolences, honoring his memory and legacy.

"He served the Nation with honor and loyalty. His life is an example of the best that Mexico can offer"

concluded the official statement.

➡️ Mexico