Rubio Celebrates Signing Of Borinqueneers Bill To Law

Press Release

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement today after President Obama signed a bill into law to award the 65th Infantry Regiment "Borinqueneers" with the Congressional Gold Medal. The measure was sent to the President's desk last month after the Senate passed S. 1174, which Rubio originally co-sponsored. Rubio was on hand at the White House for this morning's event (the bill-signing portion begins around the 10:30 mark).

The Borinqueneers were a segregated Hispanic unit, comprised of mostly Puerto Rican soldiers, who were not given the same benefits and honors awarded to other soldiers despite their service in World War I, World War II and the Korean War.

"Awarding the Borinqueneers with a Congressional Gold Medal is a long overdue recognition. The Borinqueneers selflessly served during critical times in America's history and defended the values of democracy and freedom, but as part of a segregated unit, their bravery and dedication failed to receive the appropriate recognition -- until today.

"I am proud to have played a role in ensuring the Borinqueneers received the highest civilian award Congress can bestow. At the White House ceremony today, I had the honor of meeting Borinqueneers from across the country. I spoke with many Borinqueneers who are my constituents. Their enduring commitment to America humbles me, and I am proud to serve them. I join them and their families in marking this important day and celebrating this duly deserved tribute."

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