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SOMOS Veterans

Throughout history, Hispanic and Latinx men and women have answered the call to serve, bringing resilience, strength, and unparalleled dedication to the United States Armed Forces. From the frontlines to key support roles, their contributions have not only shaped our military but have also strengthened the foundation of our nation’s freedom. This page is dedicated to celebrating the remarkable stories of Hispanic and Latinx veterans whose bravery, leadership, and service exemplify a profound legacy. Join us as we honor these individuals, whose sacrifices and achievements inspire future generations and embody the spirit of valor and unity.

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By the Numbers: Hispanic and Latinx Service Across U.S. Military Conflicts

Hispanic and Latinx Americans have courageously served in every U.S. conflict, with their contributions vital to the nation’s military success.

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  • American Revolutionary War (1775-1783): Approximately 10,000 Hispanic patriots, including Spanish Governor Bernardo de Gálvez, played key roles in securing independence. Gálvez’s daring solo assault on Fort George, with the rallying cry "Full steam ahead," led to his legendary capture of the fort. This bold "Yo solo" ("I alone") act helped drive British forces from the South, securing a critical victory.

  • Civil War (1861-1865): Roughly 10,000 Hispanic and Latinx soldiers served on both Union and Confederate sides, lending expertise to the divided nation.

  • World War I (1917-1918): Around 18,000 Hispanic servicemembers joined, facing heavy casualties in Europe.

  • World War II (1941-1945): Over 500,000 Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers, including many Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans, contributed to the Allied victory.

  • Korean War (1950-1953): Nearly 148,000 Hispanic servicemembers fought with resilience and commitment.

  • Vietnam War (1955-1975): About 80,000 served, often in leadership roles, showcasing bravery in complex combat.

  • Gulf War (1990-1991): Around 20,000 Hispanic servicemembers demonstrated skill in Operation Desert Storm.

  • Post-9/11 Conflicts (2001-present): Hispanic servicemembers remain essential in Middle East operations, representing a growing share of U.S. forces and carrying forward a legacy of courage and sacrifice.

All-Mexican and Puerto Rican Units: Celebrating Distinctive Contributions

Throughout U.S. military history, Hispanic and Latinx units, especially all-Mexican and all-Puerto Rican units, have stood out for their bravery, dedication, and accomplishments. These units embodied cultural pride and resilience, leaving an enduring impact on the military and inspiring generations of Hispanic servicemembers.

  • Mexican-American Soldiers – Company E, 141st Infantry Regiment (World War II): Known as the “All Mexican-American Company,” Company E of the 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, fought courageously in the European theater during World War II. Composed mainly of Mexican-American soldiers from Texas, this unit faced intense combat in Italy, notably during the Battle of Salerno and the invasion of southern France. Their valor and commitment led to numerous individual medals and citations, and Company E became a symbol of Mexican-American bravery and contribution to the Allied effort.

  • The Borinqueneers – 65th Infantry Regiment (Puerto Rican): The 65th Infantry Regiment, known as “The Borinqueneers,” is an all-Puerto Rican unit with a storied legacy. Formed in 1899, the Borinqueneers served with distinction in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. During the Korean War, they played a crucial role in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir and several other key battles. The Borinqueneers earned numerous commendations, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014, for their dedication and exceptional courage under fire. Their motto, “Honor et Fidelitas” (Honor and Fidelity), exemplifies the pride and commitment of Puerto Rican servicemembers.

  • All-Puerto Rican Women’s Army Corps (World War II): In addition to the male units, Puerto Rican women also contributed significantly. An all-Puerto Rican Women’s Army Corps (WAC) unit was established during World War II, led by pioneering figures such as Carmen Lozano Dumler. These women worked in various support roles, including nursing, clerical work, and communications, and their contributions were instrumental to wartime operations.

These all-Mexican and all-Puerto Rican units reflect the spirit and resilience of Hispanic servicemembers, proving their loyalty and dedication to the United States while honoring their cultural heritage. Their legacies serve as powerful reminders of the vital role Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers have played in shaping American history.

Honoring Highly Decorated Hispanic and Latinx Service Members

Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers have demonstrated exceptional valor and dedication throughout U.S. military history, earning numerous high-level commendations. While exact numbers are challenging to ascertain due to historical record-keeping practices, available data highlights their significant contributions:

  • Medal of Honor: The highest U.S. military decoration, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. To date, 59 Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers have received this prestigious award.

    C.M.O.H.S.

  • Distinguished Service Cross: The second-highest military award for extraordinary heroism in combat. While comprehensive statistics are limited, numerous Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers have been honored with this decoration. Notably, in 2014, a review led to the upgrade of 24 Army veterans' Distinguished Service Crosses to Medals of Honor, many of whom were Hispanic.

    AUSA

  • Navy Cross and Air Force Cross: Equivalent to the Distinguished Service Cross, these awards recognize extraordinary heroism in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Specific numbers for Hispanic and Latinx recipients are not readily available, but their valor in these branches is well-documented.

  • Silver Star: Awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy. While exact figures are scarce, many Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers have received the Silver Star across various conflicts.

These honors reflect the profound bravery and commitment of Hispanic and Latinx individuals in the U.S. Armed Forces, underscoring their vital role in the nation's military history.

Sources

Marcelino Serna - World War I Hero

Background: Mexican immigrant from Chihuahua, Mexico


Service & Legacy: Marcelino Serna became the first Hispanic American to earn the Distinguished Service Cross. During a fierce battle in France, Serna demonstrated extraordinary bravery by single-handedly capturing 24 German soldiers, risking his life to protect his comrades. Serna’s story stands as a testament to courage and loyalty, inspiring Hispanic servicemembers to follow in his footsteps.


“I came here to fight, not to be honored,” Serna reportedly said, showing his humble dedication to duty.

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Carmen Contreras-Bozak - World War II Trailblazer

Background: Puerto Rican-born


Service & Legacy: Carmen Contreras-Bozak broke barriers as the first Hispanic woman in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). She served as a translator in North Africa, managing classified communications that were critical to the success of Allied operations. Her groundbreaking role inspired countless Hispanic women to pursue military careers and redefine women’s roles in the armed forces.


Reflecting on her service, Contreras-Bozak said, “I felt proud to wear the uniform and do my part for our country.”

Rodolfo “Rudy” Hernandez - Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient

Background: Born to Honduran immigrant parents in California


Service & Legacy: During the Korean War, Corporal Rodolfo “Rudy” Hernandez showed extraordinary heroism in the Battle of Wontong-ni. Although injured, Hernandez continued to fight, using his bayonet against advancing enemy soldiers until he was severely wounded and incapacitated. His courage saved his platoon from being overrun, earning him the Medal of Honor.


Hernandez, known for his modesty, once remarked, “I was just doing what I was trained to do,” demonstrating his sense of duty and dedication to his comrades.

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Francisco Rubio - Vietnam War Silver Star Recipient

Background: Born in El Salvador, later immigrated to the United States


Service & Legacy: Francisco Rubio served as a Marine during the Vietnam War, where he displayed immense bravery in combat. During one mission, he led his team through a dangerous zone under heavy fire, rescuing wounded comrades and engaging the enemy to protect his squad. Rubio’s courageous actions earned him the Silver Star, one of the military’s highest honors for valor.


Reflecting on his service, Rubio said, “When you’re out there, it’s about the person next to you.” His words capture the unity and loyalty that define military service.

These stories of Hispanic and Latinx heroes from diverse backgrounds reflect the profound contributions of servicemembers from across Central and Latin America. Their acts of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice continue to inspire and remind us of the strength within the Hispanic and Latinx community.

Discover More Inspiring Stories

If these inspiring stories resonate with you, there's even more to discover. Visit SOMOS.tech/meet to dive into the journeys of other amazing Hispanic & Latinx tech professionals who are making waves in tech and also served in the U.S. Military. Their stories of determination, creativity, and triumph will inspire you to pursue your own path and drive innovation forward.

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Sources:

This page celebrates the heroic contributions of Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers throughout U.S. history. Below is a list of sources that provide further insight into the stories, statistics, and significant figures highlighted:

Historical Contributions and Conflict Overviews

  1. American Revolutionary War Contributions

  2. General Statistics on Hispanic and Latinx Military Service

Stories of Individual Heroes

  1. Marcelino Serna - World War I Hero

    • Gamboa, Erasmo. Mexican Labor & World War I: The Legacy of Marcelino Serna. University of Washington Press, 2013.

  2. Carmen Contreras-Bozak - World War II Trailblazer

  3. Rodolfo “Rudy” Hernandez - Korean War Medal of Honor Recipient

  4. Francisco Rubio - Vietnam War Silver Star Recipient

Awards and Honors Data

  1. Medal of Honor and Distinguished Service Cross Recipients

  2. Navy Cross and Air Force Cross Recipients

Additional Research and Insights

These sources provide a comprehensive view of the impact and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx servicemembers, documenting their acts of valor and the enduring legacy of their service in the U.S. Armed Forces.

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