April 13 marks National Borinqueneers Day, an annual commemoration honoring the "65th Infantry Regiment," also known as Borinqueneers. This day pays tribute to their significant contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces and underscores their role as representatives of Hispanic soldiers and veterans. It serves as a moment to reflect on the Puerto Rican soldiers who displayed courage on the battlefield, defending the freedom of all Americans while combating discrimination within their ranks.

The Borinqueneers became symbols of hope for those willing to make sacrifices for a brighter future, even as they sought acceptance and equality. By honoring the memory of their valor, their sacrifices gain lasting significance, and their legacy continues to inspire pride among generations of Puerto Ricans.

Who Were the Borinqueneers?

The 65th Infantry Regiment, nicknamed the Borinqueneers, was a Puerto Rican regiment of the U.S. Army that was established in 1899. The name "Borinqueneers" comes from "Borinquen," the indigenous Taíno name for Puerto Rico. The regiment is best known for its valor and determination during the Korean War, where it earned a reputation for bravery in some of the most challenging and dangerous combat situations.

The Borinqueneers were unique in that they were composed almost entirely of Puerto Rican soldiers and were one of the last segregated military units in the U.S. Army. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice, they proved themselves as highly capable and dedicated soldiers.

History and Origins of National Borinqueneers Day

National Borinqueneers Day was officially established in 2021 when Congress passed legislation designating April 13th as a day to honor the 65th Infantry Regiment. The date was chosen to commemorate the day in 1951 when the Borinqueneers displayed extraordinary bravery during the Battle of Outpost Kelly in the Korean War.

This observance is a time to recognize the contributions of Puerto Rican soldiers, reflect on the challenges they faced, and celebrate their legacy in U.S. military history.

Why Celebrate National Borinqueneers Day?

• To Honor Bravery and Sacrifice: Celebrate the courage and sacrifice of the Borinqueneers, who served with distinction in multiple conflicts, particularly during the Korean War.
• To Acknowledge Cultural Heritage: Recognize the unique cultural heritage of Puerto Rican soldiers and their contributions to the U.S. military.
• To Educate and Raise Awareness: Increase public awareness about the history of the 65th Infantry Regiment and the challenges they faced as a segregated unit.

How to Celebrate National Borinqueneers Day

1. Learn About the Borinqueneers: Take time to read books, watch documentaries, or explore online resources that detail the history and achievements of the 65th Infantry Regiment.
2. Attend or Organize a Commemoration: Participate in or organize events, such as memorial services, parades, or educational programs, to honor the Borinqueneers and share their story with others.
3. Visit a Military Museum or Memorial: Visit a museum or memorial that features exhibits on the Korean War and the Borinqueneers. Some museums may host special events or displays in honor of National Borinqueneers Day.
4. Support Veterans and Their Families: Consider supporting organizations that provide assistance to veterans, particularly those that focus on Puerto Rican or Hispanic veterans and their families.
5. Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #NationalBorinqueneersDay to share information, stories, or tributes about the Borinqueneers and their contributions.

The Legacy of the Borinqueneers

• Korean War Heroics: The Borinqueneers are best known for their service during the Korean War, where they participated in numerous battles, including the Battle of Chosin Reservoir and the Battle of Outpost Kelly. Their actions in these and other engagements earned them widespread recognition and numerous commendations, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.
• Overcoming Discrimination: The Borinqueneers faced significant challenges, including racial discrimination and language barriers, yet they continued to serve with dedication and honor, demonstrating their commitment to their country.
• Cultural Impact: The story of the Borinqueneers has become an important part of Puerto Rican and American military history, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and patriotism of Puerto Rican soldiers.

Notable Achievements and Honors

• Congressional Gold Medal: In 2014, the 65th Infantry Regiment was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, recognizing their service and sacrifices.
• Military Decorations: Throughout their history, the Borinqueneers received numerous military honors, including Distinguished Service Crosses, Silver Stars, Bronze Stars, and Purple Hearts, for their bravery and service in combat.
• Public Recognition: The establishment of National Borinqueneers Day is part of a broader effort to ensure that the contributions of the Borinqueneers are remembered and celebrated by future generations.

Challenges Faced by the Borinqueneers

• Segregation: The 65th Infantry Regiment was one of the last segregated units in the U.S. military, which meant that Puerto Rican soldiers often faced discrimination and were not always given the same opportunities or respect as other units.
• Language Barriers: Many of the soldiers in the Borinqueneers spoke Spanish as their first language, which sometimes led to communication challenges within the largely English-speaking U.S. Army.
• Combat Hardships: The Borinqueneers served in some of the most difficult and dangerous conditions during the Korean War, facing harsh weather, rugged terrain, and intense combat.

Why People Celebrate National Borinqueneers Day

• Cultural Pride: For Puerto Ricans and those of Puerto Rican descent, National Borinqueneers Day is a source of pride, celebrating the contributions of their ancestors to the U.S. military.
• Recognition of Service: This day serves as a reminder to honor all those who have served in the U.S. military, particularly those who have faced additional challenges due to race, ethnicity, or language.
• Education and Awareness: National Borinqueneers Day helps to educate the public about an often-overlooked chapter in U.S. military history, ensuring that the legacy of the Borinqueneers is not forgotten.

National Borinqueneers Day is a significant observance that honors the courage, resilience, and dedication of the 65th Infantry Regiment. Whether through learning more about their history, attending commemorative events, or sharing their story with others, this day offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the important contributions of Puerto Rican soldiers to the United States.