Blumenthal Statement on Passing of Celestino Cordova

[HARTFORD, CT] - U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal released a statement today on the passing of Celestino Cordova.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of Celestino Cordova's passing. Celestino bravely served and sacrificed for our country as a member of the 65^th Infantry regiment, known as the Borinqueneers, only to endure injustice on and off the battlefield. I was proud to lead efforts to correct this historic wrong with a bill granting Borinqueneers a Congressional Gold Medal and was honored to stand with Celestino as President Obama signed the bill into law-finally delivering these veterans the honors they deserve. My heart goes out to his family and community as they mourn his loss."

Cordova, a New Haven resident and Korean War veteran, joined Blumenthal at the White House in June 2014 for the signing ceremony of a bill awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the renowned 65^th Infantry Regiment. The segregated military unit, whose members were known as the "Borinqueneers," was composed almost entirely of soldiers from Puerto Rico and played a prominent role in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. The unit was the last segregated unit to be deactivated.

-30-

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Tweet