National Borinqueneers Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Borinqueneers Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Borinqueneers Day is celebrated on April 13th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Borinqueneers Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you ought to know about National Borinqueneers Day.

📅 What day is National Borinqueneers Day 2024?

In 2024, National Borinqueneers Day is on Thursday, April 13th. It is the 2nd Thursday in April; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the fun details and facts about April 13, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Every year, on April 13th, we observe National Borinqueneers Day, which is a day to honor the services of the “65th Infantry Regiment,” also known as the Borinqueneers. This day pays tribute to their contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces and their representation of Hispanic troops and veterans. It is a moment to remember the brave Puerto Rican soldiers who fought valiantly on the battlefield to protect the freedom of all Americans, despite facing prejudice from their fellow soldiers. The Borinqueneers symbolize hope for those willing to make sacrifices for a better future while advocating for acceptance and equality. As long as we remember their courage, their sacrifices will not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire pride in future generations of Puerto Ricans.

📜 National Borinqueneers Day History

Due to their cultural background, they were initially considered untrustworthy in combat and were prevented from serving in the military. However, during the Korean War, the “U.S. Army” decided to employ them as front-line combat troops as part of the 3rd Infantry Division from 1950 to 1953. This division, known as “el sesenta y cinco de infanteria” and its soldiers as “Borinqueneers,” was made up entirely of Puerto Rican troops. The term “Borinqueneers” is derived from the Arawak or Taino indigenous name for Puerto Rico, Borken, and is a combination of Spanish and English pronunciation.

Despite President Harry Truman’s signing of Executive Order 9981 in 1948, which aimed at integrating the armed services, the 65th Infantry remained a segregated regiment composed of Puerto Rican soldiers. These troops faced various forms of discrimination, such as being prohibited from speaking Spanish, having their rations reduced, and being forced to remove their mustaches. This treatment was particularly demeaning to Puerto Rican soldiers as mustaches held symbolic significance of masculinity. Despite these challenges, the Borinqueneers fought fiercely against North Korean and Chinese forces, demonstrating their courage and dedication. They continued to serve with honor in dangerous situations, sacrificing their lives and pride until the regiment was decommissioned on April 10, 1956.

✅ National Borinqueneers Day Facts

🔖 Lieutenant Colonel Teófilo Marxuach
He was responsible for initiating the first act of aggression by the United States in World War I. Specifically, he ordered the firing of shots at a German supply ship attempting to depart from San Juan Bay.

🔖 Colonel Carlos Betances Ramirez
During the Korean War, he held the unique distinction of being the sole Puerto Rican officer to lead an infantry unit.

🔖 Major General Juan César Cordero Dávila
He became the commanding officer of the 65th “Infantry Regiment” during the Korean War and eventually became one of the highest-ranking officers in the U.S. Army from an ethnic background.

👍 Why Is National Borinqueneers Day Important

Despite not being on the mainland, Puerto Rican troops demonstrated their commitment to the cause of the United States.

It’s not every day that a minority group’s military service is acknowledged. It expresses thanks for their courageous deeds.

Learning about the soldiers’ experiences can inspire others, regardless of nationality, to live lives of honor and service.

🙂 How To Observe National Borinqueneers Day

⚡ Grow a mustache
If you identify as male, start today as a fresh beginning and work towards developing this symbol of masculinity. If you identify as female, encourage the men in your life to grow a symbol of remembrance for the 65th Infantry.

⚡ Drink rum and cokes
In the early stages of its existence, the 65th infantry gained a humorous nickname, being referred to as the “Rum and Coca-Cola” unit. Let’s raise our glasses and make a toast, not only to this iconic drink, but also in recognition of the bravery displayed by these men both on and off the battlefield.

⚡ Savor a plate of Puerto Rican Rice and Beans
The Borinqueneers had a special diet consisting of rice and beans. You can either try ordering this satisfying dish or learn how to cook it yourself at home, so you can enjoy its comforting flavors whenever you desire.

📅 When is National Borinqueneers Day?

You can view all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 American holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Borinqueneers Day. So be sure to check back soon.