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Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War
Since the regiment’s creation in 1899, the men of the 65th have proudly served the US through multiple wars, despite facing racial discrimination. Their courage, loyalty, and patriotism earned them hundreds of accolades, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.
But the honor and fidelity of the men of the 65th came into question in 1952, in the midst of the Korean War, when ninety-one Borinqueneers were arrested and tried for desertion and disobeying orders. How could this happen in one of the most distinguished and decorated units of the Army?
In this telling of one of the forgotten stories of the Korean War, author Talia Aikens-Nuñez guides us through the history of the Borinqueneers and the challenges they faced leading up to what was the largest court martial in the entire war. Rediscover the bravery of the men of the 65th through Aikens-Nuñez’s thorough writing and the soldiers’ firsthand accounts of the Korean War.
But the honor and fidelity of the men of the 65th came into question in 1952, in the midst of the Korean War, when ninety-one Borinqueneers were arrested and tried for desertion and disobeying orders. How could this happen in one of the most distinguished and decorated units of the Army?
In this telling of one of the forgotten stories of the Korean War, author Talia Aikens-Nuñez guides us through the history of the Borinqueneers and the challenges they faced leading up to what was the largest court martial in the entire war. Rediscover the bravery of the men of the 65th through Aikens-Nuñez’s thorough writing and the soldiers’ firsthand accounts of the Korean War.
136 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2023
About the author
Talia Aikens-Nunez
10 books200 followersTalia Aikens-Nunez wanted to be a meteorologist, a politician and a lawyer. It was raising her bilingual children that inspired Talia to write multicultural children’s books. Her family loves nature so much that she and her husband vowed that they will always try to live close to water, so now they live on a river in Connecticut.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 20, 2023
I picked this up as a possible new text for my students, I can't decide if war books are just boring to me, if listening to Alexa read this to me made it boring, or if it was just kind of boring. That being said, I know I have students who would like it and this forgotten piece of history needs remembered!
May 10, 2023
Required reading
Excellent and easy to understand. The 65th is part of our Puerto Rican military heritage and we should feel proud of it.
Excellent and easy to understand. The 65th is part of our Puerto Rican military heritage and we should feel proud of it.
May 13, 2023
This is an accessible read about the 65th Regiment in general and their service in the Korean War more specifically. It reads like middle grade intro to the topic, so good for those into military history in general or Puerto Rican history. Decent addition to a library or for that specific student for class reading or to start off an independent project!
March 22, 2023
A truly great book on a little-known US Army regiment. The story was inspirational and the full of action. The first- hand accounts of heroism were terrific. The story will keep you interested and makes this a must read. Overall, a great read!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 12, 2023
Although the short length of this military history makes it seem like a good choice for reluctant readers, the flat writing will be a turnoff. The heroism of the 65th Infantry Regiment is buried in minutiae, diminishing the story’s drama. Deeper investigation into individual soldiers’ stories may have helped to enliven the text. Blah.
March 17, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Over the last 80 years, there have been thousands of books about the US in World War II, but relatively little about the Korean War. Since it occurred from 1950-1953, we are quickly reaching the same point with survivors that we are with WWII; few are left. I'm glad to see a book that not only provides vital information about basics of the war, but also sheds light on the involvement and treatment of a lesser known group of soldiers, a group from Puerto Rico.
There are some middle school readers who are obsessed with reading about war, and it's a fine line between giving them all of the battlefield that they want and balancing it with historical information to give them context and also show them that war is not a good thing. Aikens-Nuñez does a great job of this. There is a great explanation not only of the events leading up to the Korean War and the US involvement in it, but a lot of great information about Puerto Rico, the Spanish-American War, and the start of the Borinqueneers in 1899 and the various roles they have played through history.
There are plenty of information about the training of soldiers, the set up of the army (I love the one page that broke down the different terms of what different military groups are called, not that any of the information stayed with me!), and various operations and fighting. This is well illustrated with period photographs, and while I always think that pictures of groups like the singing Sons of Puerto Rico are fun, my military experts will enjoy the equipment or battlefields, and will ADORE all of the maps that start the chapters.
The most interesting part of the book is the court martial of ninety-six members of the regiment following the retreat from Hill 391. The group was treated very unfairly, which highlighted the way that members of color were treated in the military at this point in time. The army tried to hush it up, and eventually everyone was exonerated. In 2016, the 65th Infantry was presented with a Congressional Gold Medal. While it's good to have this treatment come to light and know that people in power are trying to do better, there are so many stories like this that it makes me wonder if the military will ever really change.
This is a well-researched and formatted book for middle grade and even high school libraries. There is a good glossary, timeline, and abundant source notes at the end. I'm glad that we are finally seeing more military history that shows the dedication and resilience of underrepresented populations in the face of social and political oppression. This is a great book to have alongside ones like Farrell's Standing Up Against Hate: How Black Women in the Army Helped Change the Course of WWII, Stone's Courage Has No Color: The True Story of the Triple Nickles, Walker's Deadly Aim: The Civil War Story of Michigan's Anishinaabe Sharpshooters or Turner's Man Called Horse: John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad.
Over the last 80 years, there have been thousands of books about the US in World War II, but relatively little about the Korean War. Since it occurred from 1950-1953, we are quickly reaching the same point with survivors that we are with WWII; few are left. I'm glad to see a book that not only provides vital information about basics of the war, but also sheds light on the involvement and treatment of a lesser known group of soldiers, a group from Puerto Rico.
There are some middle school readers who are obsessed with reading about war, and it's a fine line between giving them all of the battlefield that they want and balancing it with historical information to give them context and also show them that war is not a good thing. Aikens-Nuñez does a great job of this. There is a great explanation not only of the events leading up to the Korean War and the US involvement in it, but a lot of great information about Puerto Rico, the Spanish-American War, and the start of the Borinqueneers in 1899 and the various roles they have played through history.
There are plenty of information about the training of soldiers, the set up of the army (I love the one page that broke down the different terms of what different military groups are called, not that any of the information stayed with me!), and various operations and fighting. This is well illustrated with period photographs, and while I always think that pictures of groups like the singing Sons of Puerto Rico are fun, my military experts will enjoy the equipment or battlefields, and will ADORE all of the maps that start the chapters.
The most interesting part of the book is the court martial of ninety-six members of the regiment following the retreat from Hill 391. The group was treated very unfairly, which highlighted the way that members of color were treated in the military at this point in time. The army tried to hush it up, and eventually everyone was exonerated. In 2016, the 65th Infantry was presented with a Congressional Gold Medal. While it's good to have this treatment come to light and know that people in power are trying to do better, there are so many stories like this that it makes me wonder if the military will ever really change.
This is a well-researched and formatted book for middle grade and even high school libraries. There is a good glossary, timeline, and abundant source notes at the end. I'm glad that we are finally seeing more military history that shows the dedication and resilience of underrepresented populations in the face of social and political oppression. This is a great book to have alongside ones like Farrell's Standing Up Against Hate: How Black Women in the Army Helped Change the Course of WWII, Stone's Courage Has No Color: The True Story of the Triple Nickles, Walker's Deadly Aim: The Civil War Story of Michigan's Anishinaabe Sharpshooters or Turner's Man Called Horse: John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad.
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September 30, 2023Review copy: ARC via publisher
Talia Aikens-Nuñez brings together quotes, images, and so much more to tell this story that is likely to be new to a lot of readers. The narrative flows well on its own, but the addition of the many images, maps, and other graphics help bring a lot of context.
The 65th was a unique unit and though they had more than their fair share of challenges, the author devoted the majority of the book to the extraordinary things they were able to accomplish in spite of the difficulties. Aikens-Nuñez sets the stage by explaining some of the history of Puerto Rico and the United States. From the beginning and throughout many quotes from soldiers in the regiment are included that really point to the humanity of these names on the page especially when discussing the racism that they were dealing with over the years. There are also direct quotes from officers and other leaders like MacArthur expressing admiration and appreciation for these men. That is why the court-martials at the end of the war do not add up.
The evidence is laid out from the early days of the regiment. The second chapter is one of the most interesting and showcases a military exercise prior to the Korean fighting. The 65th, or Aggressors, were up against soldiers from other units in the US military called Liberators, but there were distinct advantages for the Liberators. The planning and execution of the exercise was intriguing and the author kept it suspenseful.
This book teaches a lot about this particular group of people, but it also helps readers understand quite a bit about how the Korean conflict came about and progressed. This might fill in a lot of blanks left for students who get little information about Asian history beyond World War II.
The book ends with a look at the court-martials and the many things that contributed to the injustice. Because the book is so tightly focused on this group of people, there is very little about the people of Korea which surprised me a little, but it makes sense given the purpose of the book.
Recommendation: Get it soon. This will be a great option for anyone with an interest in war, Puerto Rican history, the Korean war, or racial relations in the US military. I really enjoyed learning about the Borinqueneers and believe their story will speak to many young readers.
Talia Aikens-Nuñez brings together quotes, images, and so much more to tell this story that is likely to be new to a lot of readers. The narrative flows well on its own, but the addition of the many images, maps, and other graphics help bring a lot of context.
The 65th was a unique unit and though they had more than their fair share of challenges, the author devoted the majority of the book to the extraordinary things they were able to accomplish in spite of the difficulties. Aikens-Nuñez sets the stage by explaining some of the history of Puerto Rico and the United States. From the beginning and throughout many quotes from soldiers in the regiment are included that really point to the humanity of these names on the page especially when discussing the racism that they were dealing with over the years. There are also direct quotes from officers and other leaders like MacArthur expressing admiration and appreciation for these men. That is why the court-martials at the end of the war do not add up.
The evidence is laid out from the early days of the regiment. The second chapter is one of the most interesting and showcases a military exercise prior to the Korean fighting. The 65th, or Aggressors, were up against soldiers from other units in the US military called Liberators, but there were distinct advantages for the Liberators. The planning and execution of the exercise was intriguing and the author kept it suspenseful.
This book teaches a lot about this particular group of people, but it also helps readers understand quite a bit about how the Korean conflict came about and progressed. This might fill in a lot of blanks left for students who get little information about Asian history beyond World War II.
The book ends with a look at the court-martials and the many things that contributed to the injustice. Because the book is so tightly focused on this group of people, there is very little about the people of Korea which surprised me a little, but it makes sense given the purpose of the book.
Recommendation: Get it soon. This will be a great option for anyone with an interest in war, Puerto Rican history, the Korean war, or racial relations in the US military. I really enjoyed learning about the Borinqueneers and believe their story will speak to many young readers.
October 15, 2023
"Men of the 65th" is a compelling account of the U.S. Army 65th Regiment hailing from Puerto Rico. Established after the Spanish American War, this unit distinguished itself through its valor and service in both World War I and World War II. These soldiers were renowned for their unwavering determination, resilience, and fearlessness in battle. When deployed to the Korean peninsula during the Korean War, their disciplined and exceptional performance earned them further recognition. However, a series of leadership changes, high turnover rates due to battle losses and routine rotations, resulted in a decline in morale and inconsistent battlefield performance. This deterioration culminated in numerous court-martials as many soldiers refused to march into another perilous battle. The question arises: was this response justifiable considering their prior heroic contributions?
The book delves into a fascinating narrative, presented in a traditional history book format replete with troop movements, troop statistics, and intricate battle details. While this approach may occasionally appear repetitive and dry, Aikens-Nunez effectively employs these facts to build a compelling argument for the discrimination faced by the 65th Regiment, even as they garnered accolades for their bravery.
The inclusion of sidebars, offering supplementary information on critical concepts such as the background of the Borinqueneers and the nomenclature used to describe different groups in the Army, enriches the reader's understanding and engagement with the subject matter. Moreover, the presence of maps featuring the body of water on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula provides both the commonly recognized "Sea of Japan" and the South Korean-preferred "East Sea," reflecting the ongoing debate regarding the name. South Korea advocates for the change to "East Sea." "Men of the 65th" is well-suited for middle and high school readers eager to gain insights into the Korean War and its unique dynamics.
I extend my gratitude to NetGalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and Zest Books for granting me an advanced reader copy of "Men of the 65th" in exchange for my considered review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
The book delves into a fascinating narrative, presented in a traditional history book format replete with troop movements, troop statistics, and intricate battle details. While this approach may occasionally appear repetitive and dry, Aikens-Nunez effectively employs these facts to build a compelling argument for the discrimination faced by the 65th Regiment, even as they garnered accolades for their bravery.
The inclusion of sidebars, offering supplementary information on critical concepts such as the background of the Borinqueneers and the nomenclature used to describe different groups in the Army, enriches the reader's understanding and engagement with the subject matter. Moreover, the presence of maps featuring the body of water on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula provides both the commonly recognized "Sea of Japan" and the South Korean-preferred "East Sea," reflecting the ongoing debate regarding the name. South Korea advocates for the change to "East Sea." "Men of the 65th" is well-suited for middle and high school readers eager to gain insights into the Korean War and its unique dynamics.
I extend my gratitude to NetGalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and Zest Books for granting me an advanced reader copy of "Men of the 65th" in exchange for my considered review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
April 25, 2023
“Men of the 65th” is the gripping story of the U.S. Army 65th Regiment from Puerto Rico. Formed after the Spanish American War, the unit fought with distinction in World War I and World War II. The men of the 65th were known for their determination, fortitude, and ferocity in battle. The regiment was sent to the Korean peninsula during the Korean War, where the highly disciplined group earned even more accolades. A series of changes in leadership and turnover in the ranks (because of battle losses and regular rotation out) led to a decline in morale and uneven performance on the battlefield. Ultimately, dozens of men were court-martialed after refusing to walk into another meat-grinder of a battle. Was this fair or appropriate given everything they had done?
This is a fascinating story that reads like a traditional history book with troop movements, numbers of troops, and battle details. This can seem repetitive and dry at times. On the other hand, Aikens-Nunez uses these facts to make a convincing case that the 65th faced discrimination even as they were lauded for bravery.
Sidebars give additional explanation for key ideas such as background on the Borinqueneers (and what the name means) and the names for groups of people in the Army. These add interest and explanation.
Maps that include the body of water on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula show both names: the familiar Sea of Japan and the South Korean preferred name, East Sea. South Korea continues to advocate for the name change to the East Sea.
“Men of the 65th” would be great for middle and high school readers who want to know more about how the Korean War was fought.
Thanks to NetGalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and Zest Books for an advance reader copy of “Men of the 65th” in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This is a fascinating story that reads like a traditional history book with troop movements, numbers of troops, and battle details. This can seem repetitive and dry at times. On the other hand, Aikens-Nunez uses these facts to make a convincing case that the 65th faced discrimination even as they were lauded for bravery.
Sidebars give additional explanation for key ideas such as background on the Borinqueneers (and what the name means) and the names for groups of people in the Army. These add interest and explanation.
Maps that include the body of water on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula show both names: the familiar Sea of Japan and the South Korean preferred name, East Sea. South Korea continues to advocate for the name change to the East Sea.
“Men of the 65th” would be great for middle and high school readers who want to know more about how the Korean War was fought.
Thanks to NetGalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and Zest Books for an advance reader copy of “Men of the 65th” in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 8, 2023
“Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War” by Talia Aikens-Nunez is a remarkable and inspirational journey through the often-overlooked history of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers. In this meticulously researched Young Adult Non-Fiction book, Aikens-Nunez sheds light on the honor, fidelity, and extraordinary courage exhibited by the soldiers of this Puerto Rican unit throughout their history.
“Men of the 65th” is not just a history lesson; it’s a testament to patriotism, loyalty, and bravery in the face of danger and discrimination. Talia Aikens-Nunez’s meticulous research is complemented by primary source quotes, maps, and historical information, enriching the reader’s understanding of Puerto Rico, the US military, and the global conflicts the Borinqueneers faced. Furthermore, the book’s glossary, timeline, and excellent source notes make it an invaluable resource for young readers, particularly those in middle grades and high school.
Read my full thoughts on this book on my website: https://ginaraemitchell.com.
I received a digital copy of the book from Goddess Fish Promotions as part of a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
“Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War” is an inspirational and action-packed journey through history. Talia Aikens-Nunez has breathed life into a forgotten story, illuminating the contributions of people of color in the US military and highlighting the importance of honor and fidelity in the face of adversity. This book is a must-read for its historical significance and the invaluable lessons it imparts about resilience and the pursuit of justice.
“Men of the 65th” is not just a history lesson; it’s a testament to patriotism, loyalty, and bravery in the face of danger and discrimination. Talia Aikens-Nunez’s meticulous research is complemented by primary source quotes, maps, and historical information, enriching the reader’s understanding of Puerto Rico, the US military, and the global conflicts the Borinqueneers faced. Furthermore, the book’s glossary, timeline, and excellent source notes make it an invaluable resource for young readers, particularly those in middle grades and high school.
Read my full thoughts on this book on my website: https://ginaraemitchell.com.
I received a digital copy of the book from Goddess Fish Promotions as part of a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
“Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War” is an inspirational and action-packed journey through history. Talia Aikens-Nunez has breathed life into a forgotten story, illuminating the contributions of people of color in the US military and highlighting the importance of honor and fidelity in the face of adversity. This book is a must-read for its historical significance and the invaluable lessons it imparts about resilience and the pursuit of justice.
February 23, 2023
History comes to life and becomes understandable in this intriguing dive into the 65th Regiment in Puerto Rico.
This book covers the history, events, situations, and people surrounding the 65th Regiment in Puerto Rico. While it does, also, cover the events leading up to as well as the court martial surrounding the incidents of the Korean War, the author takes care to cover the history, interesting facts, and unique details, which made the 65th Regiment what it was. This gives the needed base and background to understand and sympathize with the individuals involved, especially when realizing how every situation built and worked up to the court martial and beyond.
The author has taken obvious care in the research and brings across the information clearly. At the same time, everything is written in an easy to read and digest manner. There are quite a few photographs, which always help the reader understand and connect with the material...plus, it shows the personal side, which is one of the main driving factors when considering the court martial and its impacts. This also hits modern themes of inclusion and race as it shows how and why views and opinions formed and, sometimes, changed over time.
This is a wonderful read for anyone wanting to learn more about the 65th Regiment and its history. It offers quite a bit of information, background, and insights, and does all of this without bogging down. I received a DRC and found it so well done that I'm adding it to my own homeschooling program.
This book covers the history, events, situations, and people surrounding the 65th Regiment in Puerto Rico. While it does, also, cover the events leading up to as well as the court martial surrounding the incidents of the Korean War, the author takes care to cover the history, interesting facts, and unique details, which made the 65th Regiment what it was. This gives the needed base and background to understand and sympathize with the individuals involved, especially when realizing how every situation built and worked up to the court martial and beyond.
The author has taken obvious care in the research and brings across the information clearly. At the same time, everything is written in an easy to read and digest manner. There are quite a few photographs, which always help the reader understand and connect with the material...plus, it shows the personal side, which is one of the main driving factors when considering the court martial and its impacts. This also hits modern themes of inclusion and race as it shows how and why views and opinions formed and, sometimes, changed over time.
This is a wonderful read for anyone wanting to learn more about the 65th Regiment and its history. It offers quite a bit of information, background, and insights, and does all of this without bogging down. I received a DRC and found it so well done that I'm adding it to my own homeschooling program.
December 1, 2023
This is a book that fits the recommendation I just heard in a video by Hank Green. He admonishes his viewers to read YA nonfiction books because they provide a lot of great information on topics that adult writers assume adults know -- and they often do not know the basics.
So here I am illustrating his point: I had no idea that the US army had an all Puerto Rican infantry (the 65th). And they not only had to fight the North Koreans and the Chinese; they had to fight bigotry / prejudice from their white commanding officers and white fellow infantry men.
The book has a lot of pictures, maps, diagrams, and written details about training, battles, hospitalizations, and troop movements. The most salient part of the book was the court marshals that were conducted for the majority of the soldiers. It was ridiculous. It was clear that the US government was just trying to get out giving them benefits that they had earned as loyal, fierce warriors while also subjecting them to hard (free) labor. The military did not publish these court marshals, but the men, their family members, and advocates got the word out, and slowly the court marshals were decreased or reversed. It took a few decades, but finally, they were all cancelled.
Any history buff (particularly those studying the Korean War) should read this book, not just Hispanics / Latinos / Puerto Ricans. They contributed to the US military effort (in this war and others), and the Puerto Rican soldiers deserve recognition.
So here I am illustrating his point: I had no idea that the US army had an all Puerto Rican infantry (the 65th). And they not only had to fight the North Koreans and the Chinese; they had to fight bigotry / prejudice from their white commanding officers and white fellow infantry men.
The book has a lot of pictures, maps, diagrams, and written details about training, battles, hospitalizations, and troop movements. The most salient part of the book was the court marshals that were conducted for the majority of the soldiers. It was ridiculous. It was clear that the US government was just trying to get out giving them benefits that they had earned as loyal, fierce warriors while also subjecting them to hard (free) labor. The military did not publish these court marshals, but the men, their family members, and advocates got the word out, and slowly the court marshals were decreased or reversed. It took a few decades, but finally, they were all cancelled.
Any history buff (particularly those studying the Korean War) should read this book, not just Hispanics / Latinos / Puerto Ricans. They contributed to the US military effort (in this war and others), and the Puerto Rican soldiers deserve recognition.
June 3, 2023
Teens and young adults will enjoy learning more about the heroic service of the 65th Infantry Regiment in Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War by Talia Aikens-Nuñez.
The author weaves an historical account of the only Puerto Rican unit in the United States Army from its inception through its courageous fighting during both World Wars and the Korean War despite facing discrimination. Filled with historical photos, maps, graphs, and tons of extra historical information, Nunez shares the story of the Borinqueneers, whose legacy was recognized in 2016 when they received the Congressional Gold Medal.
I chose to read Men of the 65th because my father-in-law served during the Korean War, and because I don’t know a lot about the conflict. These brave men of the 65th impressed their peers with their ingenuity and determination. They faced discrimination, capture, and were largely overlooked by history, but through a grassroots effort would finally be recognized for their contributions.
If you enjoy history, especially military history, stories of those who have overcome discrimination, or accounts of bravery, Men of the 65th is an excellent choice.
The author weaves an historical account of the only Puerto Rican unit in the United States Army from its inception through its courageous fighting during both World Wars and the Korean War despite facing discrimination. Filled with historical photos, maps, graphs, and tons of extra historical information, Nunez shares the story of the Borinqueneers, whose legacy was recognized in 2016 when they received the Congressional Gold Medal.
I chose to read Men of the 65th because my father-in-law served during the Korean War, and because I don’t know a lot about the conflict. These brave men of the 65th impressed their peers with their ingenuity and determination. They faced discrimination, capture, and were largely overlooked by history, but through a grassroots effort would finally be recognized for their contributions.
If you enjoy history, especially military history, stories of those who have overcome discrimination, or accounts of bravery, Men of the 65th is an excellent choice.
July 6, 2023
The Borinqueneers were the U.S. Army’s first (and last) segregated Latino regiment. Formed in 1898 they defended the homeland, patrolled the Panama Canal, fought in WWII, and became legendary during the Korean War. The text focuses on the Korean conflict, bringing to life that forgotten war and the 65th’s critical role in it. Central to the story is how the regiment moved from one of the most distinguished to being part of the war’s largest mass court martial. Efforts to reverse that dishonor, culminating in 2014, bring the story into the present. The text is dotted with sidebars that provide military and cultural context. Quotes, archival photos, maps, and charts break up the text. While transitions are sometimes abrupt, and the prose occasionally dry, the remarkable stories of the soldiers shine through. The author’s deep research provides context for the battles, acts of valor, and racist treatment by some in command. Suitable for reports, back matter includes a time line, a glossary, source notes, a selected biography, further reading, and an index. Thanks to Lerner / Zest and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy in return for an unbiased review.
September 5, 2023
Men of the 65th tells the story of the 65th Infantry Regiment from the time they were created during World War II until the end of their service in the Korean War. Formed in Puerto Rico, the unit proved their courage and skill from the beginning. Despite the racist treatment they often received, they fought for the United States bravely in both World War II and the Korean War. But toward the end of the Korean War a series of events led to the court martial of 91 members of the unit. Aikens-Nunez tells of the experiences that led to the 65th receiving numerous awards and the circumstances that resulted in the court martial of so many members of the unit. In addition, the reasons the soldiers all received pardons and the unit as a whole was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2016.
The author blends individual experiences and quotes with the general history of the unit. The book makes for a compelling read about a unit and a war that doesn't receive the same amount of attention that World War II does. The inclusion of photographs and sidebars helps create an understanding of the conditions that the soldiers lived and fought in. Solid back matter shows the incredible amount of work the author did to tell this important story. I appreciate that these stories are being told after having been neglected and overlooked for so long. The sacrifices made and endured by these Puerto Rican soldiers deserve to be remembered and shared. A compelling and important book that highlights the important service of the 65th Infantry Regiment.
The author blends individual experiences and quotes with the general history of the unit. The book makes for a compelling read about a unit and a war that doesn't receive the same amount of attention that World War II does. The inclusion of photographs and sidebars helps create an understanding of the conditions that the soldiers lived and fought in. Solid back matter shows the incredible amount of work the author did to tell this important story. I appreciate that these stories are being told after having been neglected and overlooked for so long. The sacrifices made and endured by these Puerto Rican soldiers deserve to be remembered and shared. A compelling and important book that highlights the important service of the 65th Infantry Regiment.
April 13, 2023
This was a unique peek into a part of history that is often overlooked - the Korean War. This specifically covers one particular regiment, and the experiences of those men during that time. I liked that Aikens-Nuñez didn't focus on just the war or the court-martial, but the regiment itself, and parts of Puerto Rico's history (where they hailed from). I have to admit I didn't know much of what was included, and found it to be an interesting learning experience. This was clearly very well researched, and supplies plenty of information without being overwhelming. I was thoroughly impressed with the extras included, such as a military term glossary for those that might be unfamiliar with them, plenty of photos, and a timeline of events. Some history books can become a bit dry, and boring, but this was well-written and engaging, perfect for teen/young adult readers interested in military history.
March 12, 2024
3.5 stars
Puerto Rico was (and still is) a territory of the US during the Korean War and they had their own Army regiment there. It was a well trained and fully integrated unit. Their motto is honor and fidelity, which they lived up to despite the harsh tests that they have been subjected to in times of war and under racial discrimination. This was especially true during the Korean War where they were subjected to the most demanding combat situations and yet they somehow prevailed (much like the Japanese-American combat troops of WWII). This book gives lots of background information for clarity, including maps and charts, as well as detailed explanations of the overwhelming situations facing these brave soldiers including an account of an unfair court martial. Give this to your history buffs but also read it yourself, just to learn about a piece of forgotten but important American history.
Puerto Rico was (and still is) a territory of the US during the Korean War and they had their own Army regiment there. It was a well trained and fully integrated unit. Their motto is honor and fidelity, which they lived up to despite the harsh tests that they have been subjected to in times of war and under racial discrimination. This was especially true during the Korean War where they were subjected to the most demanding combat situations and yet they somehow prevailed (much like the Japanese-American combat troops of WWII). This book gives lots of background information for clarity, including maps and charts, as well as detailed explanations of the overwhelming situations facing these brave soldiers including an account of an unfair court martial. Give this to your history buffs but also read it yourself, just to learn about a piece of forgotten but important American history.
August 1, 2023
Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War describes in detail the history of the 65th Infantry Regiment, the only all Puerto Rican unit in the U.S. Army. The book begins in the 1800s, but focuses mainly on the regiment’s experiences during the Korean War. I think that this book did an excellent job highlighting a part of American military history which is unfortunately forgotten, and also draws attention to the relationship between Puerto Rico and the U.S. government. I thought that this book was very well written in general. The only thing which I wish was included is more background on the causes of the Korean War, as some of the book is slightly confusing without that context. Overall I really liked this book, its message, and this style of nonfiction writing overall.
--Teen volunteer, 11th grade
--Teen volunteer, 11th grade
May 14, 2023
In 1950 the 65th Infantry Regiment, a segregated unit made up of soldiers from across Puerto Rico, were sent to fight in Korea for several years. Aiken-Nuñez narrates the brave ways in which they conducted themselves in battle, their many medals of bravery, the prejudice they faced, and the admiration they gained from a grateful Nation. By the end of the war prejudice led to the court-martial of 91 of these soldiers for something caused by the failures of Army brass. Read more about this book on my blog: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress....
September 20, 2024
This is about the 65th military group in the army and their service during the Korean War. This is a fast moving historical fictional read about this particular Puerto Rican group. This was an interesting military read for fans of military and history of military groups as well.
The book brings forth the achievements of this particular group as they were sent to the war. This is an important group in military history as there was a problem with people of color joining the military in history and this was a good read for people like myself who don’t know anything about the military structure or pieces of the military or for young people who also want to learn.
The book brings forth the achievements of this particular group as they were sent to the war. This is an important group in military history as there was a problem with people of color joining the military in history and this was a good read for people like myself who don’t know anything about the military structure or pieces of the military or for young people who also want to learn.
January 13, 2023
A comprehensive and informative story about the Men of the 65th. This book shared the story of the Borinqueneers; their patriotism and amazing military work as well as the discrimination they faced because they were from Puerto Rico. Great details, photos, and further reading were provided. #ReadYourWorld this review is part of Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2023 (January 26), thank you to Lerner Publishing Group for access to the proof #gifted.
April 7, 2024
An excellent non-fiction deep dive into some US Militsry history that isn’t really mentioned or taught in most public school history classes (that I have been through or sat in on). This is also a great resource for Korean War primary sources; and, another perspective about the long history of racism in America.
November 9, 2023
A brief book about the Borinquenners. It might be a little too short. Some of the text included details and didn't explain them. It also would have benefited from a list of people.
Still. There's a lot to be said for a short read.
Read for Librarian Book Group
Still. There's a lot to be said for a short read.
Read for Librarian Book Group
March 12, 2023
An arc from NetGalley. An interesting topic that I’m glad to see available for young readers. However, it’s a bit tepid and lacks depth.
May 11, 2023
someone really should make a film about this group.
October 2, 2023
i enjoyed it! (said as someone who usually doesn't enjoy war related books) it even gave me some extra things i wrote down to do more research on. it definitely held my attention!
October 17, 2023
Learn about the highly decorated 65th Infantry Regiment, the only Puerto Rican unit in the United States Army.
November 29, 2023
Pair with Port Chicago 50, and other titles. Readers may think it’s a graphic novel nf because of the cover.
August 18, 2024
They were assigned the toughest tasks and outperformed the rest!
Men of the 65th: The Borinqueneers of the Korean War is the amazingly clear and well-presented history of this special group of brave and patriotic fighting men, whom most people have never heard of before. Organized and celebrated for over 100 years ago, the infantry regiment’s incredible and spotless record was besmirched during their long service in the Korean War. Only in recent years were they exonerated.
The 65th was a segregated all-Puerto Rican infantry regiment in the United States Army with a ferocious reputation. Many of the soldiers spoke Spanish, creating a communication problem with some of their English-only officers. There even existed a lot of prejudice against these men by their white officers. However, in the years the 65th fought in Korea, they were given some of the toughest, nastiest, and most hopeless assignments, and they still produced numerous examples of outstanding personal and regimental heroism. Still, near the end of the war, when the 65th was at the limits of its trained personnel and resources, they were tasked with the impossible and, perhaps, the ill-planned, and some of the men had had enough.As the author mentions, the Korean War is often called “The Forgotten War,” probably because it followed closely behind two world wars and preceded Vietnam. The study of this conflict barely got a mention in any U.S. history course I ever took, and I would go so far as to say most people’s knowledge of the Korean War is whatever they gleaned from the television show M*A*S*H.
The author’s writing style is easy to read, and the storytelling and research are compelling. While the book targets a young adult audience, I think even older readers will find it fascinating reading. I know I did.I recommend MEN OF THE 65TH: THE BORINQUENEERS OF THE KOREAN WAR to non-fiction readers interested in this little-known part of history.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews