From the earliest days of American history, Hispanic Service Members have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their fellow Americans. They have answered the nation’s call with courage, honor, and unwavering commitment. During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate their extraordinary contributions, sacrifices, and the legacy of heroism that continues to inspire generations. Latino Service Members have woven their valor into the very fabric of America’s military history, and their story inspires pride and reverence.

The Borinqueneers Legacy: A Chapter of American Military History

One of the most iconic chapters of Latino military history is the story of the 65th Infantry Regiment, the Borinqueneers. Formed in 1899, this regiment of Puerto Rican soldiers fought valiantly in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. In Korea, the Borinqueneers faced some of the fiercest battles, earning a reputation for bravery, resilience, and honor.

Their heroism did not go unnoticed. In 2014, the Borinqueneers received the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor. This medal recognized their extraordinary service and sacrifices to protect freedom and uphold democracy. It immortalizes the courage of thousands of Puerto Rican soldiers who fought for their island and the ideals of the United States.

Trailblazers and Heroes: Chief Master Sergeant Ramón “CZ” Colón-López 

Hispanic Service Members have excelled not only on the battlefield but also as leaders and trailblazers. Chief Master Sergeant Ramón “CZ” Colón-López, a legendary Air Force pararescueman, became the first Hispanic to serve as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (SEAC). Throughout his career, he repeatedly risked his life to save fellow Service Members in combat zones. He earned the Air Force Combat Action Medal as one of the first six Airmen and the first Hispanic recipient.

Colón-López’s impact extends far beyond combat. As SEAC, he became the first enlisted member of the U.S. Armed Forces to receive the Defense Distinguished Service Medal for his outstanding contributions to national security. From Afghanistan’s battlefields to the Pentagon, he embodies Latino valor—fearless, selfless, and devoted to his nation. His story inspires Service Members across all branches, proving that true leadership comes from courage, character, and dedication.

Medal of Honor Recipients

 Exemplars of Bravery

The Medal of Honor is America’s highest military award, recognizing unmatched courage and sacrifice. Hispanic Service Members have earned this distinguished honor, leaving a lasting legacy of heroism that inspires generations.

Joseph H. De Castro (Army)
Joseph H. De Castro became the first Hispanic Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the Civil War. Serving with courage and determination, De Castro distinguished himself on the battlefield, embodying the highest ideals of service. His bravery not only contributed to victory in battle but also paved the way for recognition of Hispanic Americans’ vital contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces.

Private First Class (PFC) Fernando Luis García (Marine)
PFC Fernando Luis García displayed extraordinary courage during the Korean War. For example, when his fellow Marines faced deadly enemy fire, he acted without hesitation and sacrificed his life to save them. His selfless actions forever etched his name into the history of American military heroism and serve as a lasting example of valor in the face of overwhelming danger.

Philip Bazaar (Navy)
Seaman Philip Bazaar, a Chilean-born sailor, was the first Hispanic from South America to earn the Medal of Honor. Serving in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War, he distinguished himself at the Battle of Fort Fisher. Amid heavy fire, he carried dispatches and helped capture positions, embodying courage, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of Hispanic service. 

Medal of Honor in Modern Combat

Leroy Arthur Petry (Army)

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Leroy Arthur Petry earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary actions in Afghanistan. During a firefight, he risked his life to save fellow Rangers. In addition, despite losing part of his hand, he completed his mission, showing unmatched courage and resilience. Petry’s heroism reflects modern valor, saving lives and inspiring soldiers facing the toughest challenges. Beyond the battlefield, his story reminds us that true heroism is measured by lives protected and the example set for others.

Most Decorated Latinos: Leaders in Bravery and Service

Military decorations recognize extraordinary courage, skill, and dedication in service to the United States. Among Hispanic Service Members, some have earned multiple awards for bravery, leadership, and selfless service, reflecting the highest ideals of the Armed Forces.

Private Marcelino Serna (Army)
Marcelino Serna was the first Hispanic enlisted soldier to receive the Distinguished Service Cross during World War I. In addition, he overcame language barriers and prejudice while showing extraordinary courage and determination on the battlefield. Serna single-handedly captured numerous enemy soldiers, saving countless lives and earning lasting recognition as a true hero of his era.

Jorge A. Otero Barreto (Army)
Known as the “Puerto Rican Rambo,” Otero Barreto served in Vietnam and received 38 military awards and decorations, the most of any Puerto Rican soldier. His record of valor and heroism illustrates the extraordinary contributions of Hispanic Americans in combat.

Breaking Barriers in Service: Carmen Contreras-Bozak

Technician Fourth Grade Carmen Contreras-Bozak was the first Hispanic woman in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps. Born to Puerto Rican parents, she enlisted in 1942 and deployed overseas with Eisenhower’s headquarters in North Africa. Her courage and dedication opened paths for women and Hispanic Americans serving their nation.

Contreras-Bozak played a vital role in communications and interpretation, ensuring crucial information reached Allied leaders quickly and accurately. Her contributions supported key missions and showcased the professionalism and skill Hispanic Service Members bring to every branch.

Her legacy continues to inspire generations of Latinos and women. Contreras-Bozak proved that service thrives through diversity, courage, and heart, leaving a lasting mark on U.S. military history.

Celebrating Latino Heritage in the Armed Forces 

Latinos Across Every Branch of the Military 

From the Army to the Air Force, Navy to the Marines, Latinos serve as pilots, medics, engineers, intelligence officers, and combat leaders. Their dedication shapes every mission, supports every base, and defends freedom worldwide. Over decades, from World War I and World War II to Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and modern conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, they have demonstrated courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment, leaving a lasting legacy of service and sacrifice.

A Call to Remember and Inspire

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly honor Hispanic Service Members for their courage, heritage, and unwavering dedication to our nation. Across the country, their service is remembered and celebrated as a vital part of America’s military story.

Latino valor is a living legacy—seen in the bravery of the Borinqueneers, the sacrifices of Medal of Honor recipients, and the leadership of heroes like Chief Master Sergeant Ramón Colón-López. Their dedication shows that America’s strength comes from heroes of every background and heritage.

This month, and always, we celebrate their stories, teaching the next generation that courage, commitment, and love of country know no limits.

About The Author

Mike Isaac-Jimenez is a 25-year U.S. Air Force Veteran based in San Antonio, TX. He currently serves as a Marketing and Communications Veteran intern with Soldiers’ Angels, where he shares his passion for storytelling with his dedication to honoring military service. Mike holds a B.S. in Technical Management (Project Management) from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, along with A.A.S. degrees in Mechanical & Electrical Technology and Mechanical Engineering. He writes to preserve the legacies of America’s heroes and honor those who served and are still serving.

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