User:Kuzumel/William Soo Hoo

William Soo Hoo (1924–October 25, 1990) was an American politician from California, a member of the Democratic Party, and a veteran of the World War II European front. He is notable as the first American born Asian mayor in California as well the first Oxnard native-son to assume that position.

Early life
William Soo Hoo was born in Oxnard, California in 1924 to Soo Hoo Jung Hall (mother) and Soo Hoo Yee Tom (father). The family owned a merchantile store (called Wing Chen Lung Company) and ran a small Chinese restaurant (The Oriental Inn) in the segregated area popularly known as "China Alley".

He attended Haydock School, Roosevelt School, Wilson School and graduated from Oxnard High School. In January 1943, he volunteered with the Army and was assigned to the 788th Field Artillery Battalion which participated in Operation Grenade, the final push into Germany.

After leaving the Army in 1946, Bill Soo Hoo returned back to Oxnard and became co-owner of the family restaurant, The Oriental. As a popular local eatery, Soo Hoo befriended many of Oxnard's political and business leaders. However in the late 1940's, a local ordinance made it illegal for him to live on a property he just purchased. That motivated him to participate in the political arena. The first step was accepting his duty to serve on the 1956 Grand Jury.

Later life
Army 788th Field Axillary Battalion World War II

Category:1924 births Category:1990 deaths Category:People from Oxnard, California Category:California city council members Category:California Democrats Category:Chinese-American mayors Category:American politicians of Chinese descent Category:American politicians of Asian descent Category:Mayors of Oxnard, California