; however Private Serna was reportedly passed over for the Medal of Honor because he did not know enough English to be promoted. (8) On May 7, 2021, recognizing that acts of valor performed by minority service members like Private Serna have gone unrecognized, a bipartisan Texas State House and Senate Committee voted to unanimously award Private Serna the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor. (9) For his conspicuous gallantry, unwavering commitment, and heroic actions above and beyond the call of duty to the United States of America, Private Marcelino Serna has long earned the Medal of Honor, an award that would allow his descendants, fellow Texans, and Americans everywhere to recognize his heroic deeds. 2. Authorization for award of the Medal of Honor to Marcelino Serna for acts of valor during World War I (a) Authorization Notwithstanding the time limitations specified in section 7274 of title 10, United States Code, or any other time limitation with respect to the awarding of certain medals to persons who served in the Armed Forces, the President may posthumously award the Medal of Honor under section 7272 of such title to Marcelino Serna for the acts of valor described in the subsection (b). (b) Acts of valor described The acts of valor described in this subsection are the actions of Marcelino Serna as a private in the Army during World War I, for which he was previously awarded the Distinguished-Service Cross.