(L–R) Hostos Office of Veteran Affairs Coordinator Ricardo García, NYS Senator Nathalia Fernandez, Inductee José A. Rivera Carrión, Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Inductee Julio Feliu, NYS Senator José M. Serrano, and Director of Governmental and External Affairs Eric Radezky, who served as moderator of the ceremony.

New York State Senator José M. Serrano organized the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony on July 9 in the Savoy Multipurpose Room at Hostos Community College. The event was filled with reverence and gratitude as it honored two distinguished Korean War veterans, Julio Feliu and José A. Rivera Carrión. This momentous occasion celebrated their extraordinary bravery and unwavering heroism, a testament to their sacrifices for the country. Typically, veterans are inducted into the NYS Senate Hall of Fame in Albany. However, given the College’s role in the community, Serrano chose to honor the Bronx veterans at Hostos. Senator Nathalia Fernandez joined Serrano to honor two Puerto Rican veterans, recognizing their exceptional service.

Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis welcomed attendees to the event, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the bravery of the honorees during their military service.

"I am honored to welcome you to our College, Julio Feliu and José A. Rivera Carrión. When they were called to serve their country, they did and distinguished themselves through their courage under fire," she said.

Feliu and Rivera Carrión served with the Borinqueneers, the 65th Infantry Regiment, composed primarily of Puerto Rican soldiers. The Borinqueneers are renowned for their exceptional heroism during the Korean War, earning numerous accolades for their service. In 2016, President Obama awarded the regiment the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing its extraordinary valor and contributions to the United States.

Senator José M. Serrano expressed his admiration for Feliu, stating, “I am honored to induct Julio Feliu into the Veterans Hall of Fame. Mr. Feliu served in active duty in the Korean War in 1951 and 1952 and attained the rank of Corporal. As part of the ‘Borinqueneers’ Company, Corporal Feliu earned a Bronze Star Medal and a Congressional Gold Medal for his bravery in administering first aid to wounded men and carrying and repairing damaged machine guns through the battle, all under heavy enemy fire,” he said. “It is an honor to have this distinguished veteran in my district, and my pleasure to honor him by inducting him into the Veterans Hall of Fame.”

(L–R) Honoree Julio Feliu receiving the induction proclamation from Senator José M. Serrano.

For her part, Senator Nathalia Fernandez inducted José A. Rivera Carrión, saying, “Mr. Rivera-Carrion's distinguished service during the Korean War is a testament to his courage and dedication, and we are incredibly proud to have such a remarkable individual residing in our Bronx community. His story of bravery and sacrifice serves as an inspiration to us all. As we celebrate his contributions, we extend our deepest gratitude to all veterans who have selflessly served our nation. Their unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms is something we will continue to honor and cherish.”

(L–R) Veteran José A. Rivera Carrión, 93, received his recognition from Senator Nathalia Fernandez.

On behalf of NYC Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner James Hendon, Hostos Office of Veteran Affairs Coordinator Ricardo García highlighted the significance of this recognition, “Julio Feliu’s and Jose A. Rivera-Carrion’s induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is a testament to their exemplary service. Their extraordinary bravery and unwavering dedication in the face of the enemy are powerful reminders of the spirit and resilience that define this great city and nation. We extend our deepest gratitude to these remarkable individuals for their commitment and sacrifice.”

(L–R) Brothers in arms, Feliu and Rivera Carrión, joyfully celebrated their achievement.

As the ceremony concluded, the room resonated with a profound sense of pride and respect for these heroes. Their legacy of courage and sacrifice will continue to inspire future generations.