Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient. He received the award posthumously (presented to his parents) on October 25, 1953 at his home town of Utuado, Puerto Rico, for his actions as a private first class with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, on September 5, 1952, at the Battle of Bunker Hill, near Panmunjom, Korea. He joined the US Marine Corps in January 1951 and following his recruit and combat training, he was assigned to Korea. On that day, he and his company were posted about 1 mile from the enemy lines at "Outpost Bruce" in the Bunker Hill area where Chinese soldiers were attacking with artillery, mortars, and grenades. He was wounded and getting hand grenades from his acting platoon sergeant when an enemy grenade landed near them. He instinctively covered the grenade with his body, sacrificing himself to save the life of his fellow Marine who was wounded by the blast. His body was never recovered. His Medal of Honor citation reads: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a member of Company I, in action against enemy aggressor forces. While participating in the defense of a combat outpost located more than one mile forward of the main line of resistance during a savage night attack by a fanatical enemy force employing grenades, mortars, and artillery, Pfc. Garcia, although suffering painful wounds, moved through the intense hail of hostile fire to a supply point to secure more hand grenades. Quick to act when a hostile grenade landed nearby, endangering the life of another marine, as well as his own, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and immediately threw his body upon the deadly missile, receiving the full impact of the explosion. His great personal valor and cool decision in the face of almost certain death sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."