How truly blessed we are to live in a city where the spirit of patriotism resonates everywhere. It fills me with pride to witness my fellow Latinos and Puerto Ricans dedicating their lives in service to this great nation. I am grateful to reside in a place where my children can learn the values of honor and service. Today, we celebrate all veterans, both those we know and those we don't. Thank you immensely for your unwavering service and dedication to this country.
With your attention now engaged, I am moved to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Puerto Ricans throughout history, honoring my fellow brothers and sisters who have served this great nation. The 65th Infantry Regiment stands as a shining example of courage and dedication, inspiring us all with their unwavering commitment.
The history of Puerto Rican service in the United States Army predates Puerto Rico's incorporation into the United States in 1898. Prior to the Treaty of Paris, which transferred control of Puerto Rico from Spain to the United States, Puerto Rican soldiers volunteered in both the 1st Puerto Rican Infantry Battalion and the 2nd Puerto Rican Mounted Battalion. Between 1899 and 1917, these battalions were reorganized into what became known as the Puerto Rican Regiment of Infantry, marking a significant milestone as it saw the commissioning of the first Puerto Rican officers within the U.S. Army. Following America's entry into World War I on April 6, 1917, this regiment was deployed to safeguard the newly completed Panama Canal from potential use by Central Powers against Allied forces. In addition to this regiment, approximately 18,000 other men and women from Puerto Rico contributed their service across various combat and support roles within the Armed Forces.
Despite being nearly 5,000 miles east of Pearl Harbor, the events of December 7, 1941, significantly impacted Puerto Rico's populace and lifestyle. The island promptly mobilized its population and economy to support the war effort, engaging in rationing and sacrifices akin to those experienced by Americans nationwide. Puerto Rican enlistments swiftly exceeded the Army’s capacity to assign them appropriately within units. Beyond the 65th Infantry remaining in the Regular Army, Brigadier General Luis Esteves established two additional units of Puerto Rican National Guardsmen. Esteves was a distinguished officer within the Army, recognized as the first Puerto Rican graduate from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and a peer of General Omar Bradley and President Dwight Eisenhower. His newly formed units, the 295th and 296th Infantries, along with the 65th Infantry, commenced rigorous training for warfare expeditiously. While these were designated as primary combat units for Puerto Ricans, over 65,000 men and women from Puerto Rico or of Puerto Rican descent served during World War II.
Thirteen months after the attack on Pearl Harbor and the United States' entry into World War II, the 65th Infantry Regiment was deployed in January 1943 to the Panama Canal Zone, a location where their predecessors had served 26 years prior. On February 4, 1944, they received orders to move to North Africa as part of preparations for the European invasion. During their time in North Africa, Puerto Rican soldiers of the regiment engaged in amphibious training and security operations. It was here that Col. Antulio Segarra from Cayey, Puerto Rico, assumed command of the 65th Infantry, marking a historic moment as he became the first Puerto Rican officer to lead a regiment in the Regular U.S. Army. Subsequently, in October 1944, the regiment joined forces with the Seventh Army to combat German troops in southern France and contribute towards ending World War II.
The 65th Infantry has a distinguished history that extends through the Korean War and continues to this day. Currently, it is part of the U.S. Army Puerto Rico Army National Guard. In recognition of its significant contributions to the United States, the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the "Borinqueneers," was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2016.
The citation, in part, reads:
“The service of the men of the 65th Infantry Regiment is emblematic of the contributions to the armed forces that have been made by hundreds of thousands of brave and patriotic United States citizens from Puerto Rico over generations, from World War I to the most recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.”
This marks a historic moment as the first Hispanic American unit receives this prestigious award, and it stands as the first recognition for a unit from the Korean War. The narrative of Puerto Rican service continues to unfold through the courageous men and women serving in active duty, Army Reserve, and National Guard. Their unwavering loyalty, dedication to duty, and selfless service inspire pride not only among Puerto Ricans but also resonate deeply with U.S. citizens across the nation. Let their story fuel our spirits and remind us of the power of commitment and courage in shaping history.
Thank you for filling all of us Puerto Ricans with pride. ¡Yo Soy Boricua, pa que tu lo Sepa!
-Ely
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