National Borinqueneers Day (April 13th)

Quick facts
When is it?	Every April 13th
Tagged as:	Countries & Cultures Historical Interest Military
What's the hashtag?	#NationalBorinqueneersDay
When was it founded?	2021
Who founded it?	U.S. Congress
We first published this page on:	Mar 4th, 2025
We last updated this page:	Apr 7th, 2025

Contents

National Borinqueneers Day honors the brave Puerto Rican soldiers of the 65th Infantry Regiment. Known as the Borinqueneers, these men served valiantly in various conflicts, including the Korean War. Their dedication and courage earned them numerous accolades, such as the Congressional Gold Medal.

This day highlights the significant contributions of Hispanic soldiers in the U.S. military. It acknowledges the challenges they faced and the sacrifices they made for freedom.

Celebrating National Borinqueneers Day ensures that the legacy of these heroes continues to inspire future generations.

How to Observe National Borinqueneers Day

Here are some detailed and engaging ways to celebrate National Borinqueneers Day. Each activity offers a fun and meaningful way to honor the legacy of the 65th Infantry Regiment.

Dive into Their Story with a Documentary Screening

A great way to understand the Borinqueneers’ journey is by watching a documentary about their service. The Borinqueneers (2007) provides a powerful look at their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Afterward, spark a discussion about their legacy and what their story means today.

Encourage attendees to share their thoughts, making it an interactive and thought-provoking experience.

Savor Puerto Rican Cuisine with a Tribute Meal

Food connects people to history, and Puerto Rican cuisine carries deep cultural roots. Celebrate the Borinqueneers by preparing dishes they might have enjoyed.

Cook a traditional meal featuring arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), lechón (roast pork), and tostones (fried plantains). If cooking isn’t an option, support a Puerto Rican-owned restaurant and enjoy an authentic dining experience.

Raise awareness by sharing their story on social media. Post historical facts, inspiring quotes, or personal reflections about the Borinqueneers.

Create digital artwork or short videos to spread their legacy creatively. Teachers and students can design posters or murals highlighting their bravery. Writers can craft poetry or short stories inspired by their struggles and triumphs.

Support Organizations That Honor Their Memory

Many organizations work to preserve the history of the Borinqueneers. Consider donating to causes that support Puerto Rican veterans and military history preservation.

Some groups provide scholarships or aid to veterans’ families. Volunteering at events or participating in fundraisers helps these efforts continue. If possible, advocate for more recognition of their achievements through historical markers or community projects.

History of National Borinqueneers Day

National Borinqueneers Day honors the 65th Infantry Regiment, a unit of Puerto Rican soldiers who served in the U.S. Army. These men fought in multiple conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

Despite facing segregation and discrimination, they showed extraordinary bravery on the battlefield. For years, their sacrifices went unrecognized by the broader public.

In 2014, Congress awarded the Borinqueneers the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This recognition highlighted their courage and dedication to defending the nation.

Seven years later, in 2021, lawmakers passed a bill officially designating April 13 as National Borinqueneers Day. This annual observance ensures their story is remembered and shared with future generations.

People across the country use this day to reflect on the Borinqueneers’ legacy. Many attend events, learn about their history, or honor their contributions in creative ways. National Borinqueneers Day keeps their remarkable service alive for years to come.