The 65th Infantry is a U.S. Army unit that played a major role in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. Often nicknamed “Borinqueneers,” after the original Taíno name for the island of Puerto Rico, it was one of the first Puerto Rican regiments in the U.S. Army.

In the Korean War, the 65th Infantry successfully defended the front lines at Outpost Kelly, a heavily contested area. They also played a major role in Allied deployments in World War II, and continue to support army operations in the Middle East.

Lawmakers sent a bill to President Obama requesting that the 65th receive the Congressional Gold Medal in observance of their great contributions.
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The bill, sponsored by U.S. Representative Bill Posey, was “an appropriate way for our nation to observe Memorial Day,” the Orlando Sentinel reports.

Florida Governor Rick Scott supported the bill, stating in a press release that “the U.S. Congress got it right when they approved legislation to grant the U.S. Army’s 65th Infantry Regiment with the Congressional Gold Medal for their bravery and service to our country.” The governor thanked Rep. Posey for introducing the bill, along with “all the leaders in Central Florida’s Puerto Rican community for their efforts to recognize the Borinqueneers for their service in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. It was an honor to spend time with these heroic veterans last year and award them the Governor’s Veterans Service Award for their service and loyalty to Florida and our country. I look forward to the President signing this legislation and awarding the medal to these veterans who deserve our gratitude. I would like to wish the Borinqueneers and all Americans a Happy Memorial Day weekend.”