Dick Durbin: “I would like to recognize the remarkable service of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers, a unit…”

“I would like to recognize the remarkable service of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers, a unit composed primarily of soldiers from the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico and recruits from other Latino backgrounds. Today, President Obama has signed into law a bill honoring the Borinqueneers with a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor our Nation can bestow. The Gold Medal is awarded as a national expression of gratitude to men and women who perform outstanding acts of service that advance the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States of America. American minorities have a proud history of serving their country with honor and distinction even in the face of racism and exclusion. As the largest and longest standing segregated unit in our military's history, the 65th Infantry Regiment is no different. In the face of segregation and discrimination, the Borinqueneers demonstrated valiant service to our Nation. From World War I to Korea, the Borinqueneers represented the United States and Puerto Rico proudly. They were often among the first into battle and have been the recipients of numerous awards and commendations. The 65th Infantry Regiment was originally formed as a battalion of volunteer infantry in Puerto Rico in 1899 and first saw combat in World War I. The unit fired the first shot of the war by U.S. regular Armed Forces while defending the harbor of San Juan against a ship flying the colors of the Central Powers.…”