Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day: Puerto Rico and Military Service

Every year on the last Monday of May, the United States pauses to honor the individuals who died while serving in the armed forces. While we often associate Memorial Day with long weekends and beach outings, it’s important to remember the sacrifice behind the holiday. This is especially important in Puerto Rico, where military service has deep roots and a lasting impact.

A Legacy of Service

Puerto Ricans have a long and proud history of serving in the U.S. military. Boricuas have stepped up to serve their country in every major conflict since World War I. This is despite Puerto Ricans not having voting representation in Congress and facing unique political challenges. One of the most famous units was the 65th Infantry Regiment, known as the Borinqueneers. Made up almost entirely of Puerto Rican soldiers, the regiment earned a Congressional Gold Medal for its bravery during the Korean War. (House.gov)

The Numbers Tell a Story

More than 200,000 Puerto Ricans have served in the U.S. military. During the Korean War alone, the Borinqueneers earned one Medal of Honor, nine Distinguished Service Crosses, approximately 250 Silver Stars, over 600 Bronze Stars, and more than 2,700 Purple Hearts (House.gov). Puerto Rico has consistently sent more service members per capita than many U.S. states. The numbers include 18,000 in World War I, 65,000 in World War II, 61,000 in the Korean War, 48,000 in the Vietnam War, and thousands more in modern conflicts (Puerto Rico Report).

A recent survey revealed that 52% of people in Puerto Rico have either served or have a family member who servedd in the Armed Forces.. This shows how deeply military service is woven into the fabric of Puerto Rican society.

A Day of Reflection

While cookouts and family gatherings are part of the modern Memorial Day experience, the heart of the day is remembrance. It’s a chance to honor those who gave their lives in service. It’s a time to reflect on the cost of freedom, and to appreciate the contributions of Boricua soldiers past and present.

This Memorial Day, take a moment to pause and give thanks. Thanks for the lives lost, the families left behind, and the legacy of service that continues to shape Puerto Rico’s story.

*For a more comprehensive understanding and additional statistics on Puerto Rican military service, you can refer to the full fact sheet here: Fact Sheet: Puerto Rican Participation in the U.S. Armed Forces.