Most Americans might not be aware, but since the 1700s the destiny of Puerto Rico and its people has been interwoven with the North American experience that led to the war by British colonies for independence from England. Puerto Rican soldiers are reported in the ranks of the Spanish Colonial Army forces, at the time Spain joined in making war against Britain during the American Revolution.
In alliance with France, the Spanish forces attacked the British in Florida, denying England easy access to the Mississippi as a route to encircle the American revolutionary forces. Puerto Rican soldiers fought with Spanish Army General Bernardo de Gálvez, who was Governor of Louisiana under Spanish rule, in actions favorable to the American rebellion that included final battles of the Revolutionary War.
Civil War
Soldiers from Puerto Rico also took part in the Civil War, identified as Spanish immigrants to the Americas since Puerto Rico was still a Spanish colony at the time. And then in the Spanish American War the pro-American factions in Puerto Rico acted in support of U.S. Army forces that defeated the Spanish garrison. After the war ended, in 1899 the U.S. Congress authorized the creation of the Battalion of Porto Rican Volunteers for service on the island.
WWI
It has been reported that the first shot of World War I under the U.S. flag was fired by Army Lt. Teofilo Marxuach at America’s southeastern-most border from El Morro Castle in Puerto Rico. The WW I military draft law was passed on May 18, 1917. It did not apply to Puerto Rico, until it was recognized Puerto Ricans were American citizens and should be eligible for the draft.
Accordingly, on May 20, 1917 Puerto Rico’s territorial government petitioned for Puerto Rico to be included, seeking equality in service as part of the quest for equality of citizenship. 236,000 Puerto Ricans registered for the draft in that year. Over 18,000 men and women served in World War I, mostly in non-combat roles but providing material support for the American cause.
Soldiers from Puerto Rico went to Panama during WW I, organized as the 65th Regiment, proudly known as “The Borinqueneers.” The Borinqueneers were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014. This regiment became the core of the National Guard after segregated units were abolished in the 20th century. It is reported the Puerto Rico Army National Guard is recognized as one of the most versatile and best prepared state militias of the United States.
Continuing service
65,000 Puerto Rican men and women served in World War II, including many in full combat status. 61,000 Puerto Rican Americans served during the Korean War, 48,000 Puerto Ricans served in the Vietnam War, 10,000 in the Gulf War, and 38,000 in Iraq.
At least 375,000 Puerto Ricans have served, are veterans, or currently are in active duty service of the U.S. military. This truly is an illustrious record of patriotism proven in the crucible of service and sacrifice in defense of America.
Despite this rich history of service to American democracy, the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico continue to be denied equal rights and full participation in the federal government. It is essential for Congress to pass and approve legislation to definitively end Puerto Rico’s territory status and offer island residents the opportunity to finally achieve citizenship equality and full democracy through statehood. Our democracy and founding values require nothing less.
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