Committee campaigns for stamp to honor Puerto Rican soldiers

Monroe — The Borinqueneers Stamp Committee has organized a nationwide petition to ask that the 65th Infantry Regiment (nicknamed “the Borinqueneers”) be considered for a commemorative U.S. stamp honoring their service as the only all-Hispanic unit in U.S. Army history. The 65th Infantry Regiment was a regular Army unit made up primarily of Puerto Ricans who served meritoriously since 1899 in three wars. During the Korean War, they saw intense action and earned a reputation as fierce warriors. General Douglas MacArthur said, “I wish I might have many more like them.” Only a limited number of new commemorative items can be issued annually. According to the Postal Service guidelines, a suggested event, person(s), or theme must have a widespread national appeal and significance to be considered for commemoration as a U.S. stamp. Already the petition campaign has taken wings all across the country and in Puerto Rico, and many local organizations are mobilizing their membership for a signature drive. More than 6,500 signatures have been collected. To help, visit the Web site at www.borinqueneers.com/news/stamp-campaign to download the Petition Form or call 914-739-3989 for more information. Obtain as many signatures as you can and return the original signed petitions to El Pozo Productions, PO Box 302, Crompond, NY 10517. Or you can write your own letter of support. The committee will then forward the petitions to the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee for their review and consideration. The committee is co-chaired by Ruben Estrada, of Monroe, Noemi Figueroa Soulet, LTC Bill Rodriguez (Ret.) and 1SG Wilson Rodriguez (Ret.).