My father (Ramon Merced) retired in 1971 after serving 31 years in the U.S. Infantry. He joined in 1938 and was part of the Borinqueneers from the time he joined. I know that he was in North Africa and France during the second world war as part of the 65th infantry. He served with them as well during the Korean conflict, but I am not sure if it was company C, D, or F. In the past he has not spoken much of his war experiences, He also served with the 1st Cavarlry during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Plei Ku. He retired in 1971. I have had brief conversations with him regarding his experiences, and I know that he mentions Colonel Harris fondly. My father has suffered various strokes but still seems to recall anything prior to 1988 very vividly, and I want to write down his memoirs regarding his experiences. He lives in Columbus, Georgia where he retired from Ft. Benning.
There is a heavy concentration of Puerto Rican Military retirees in Columbus, Georgia, and I know some of them served in the 65th Infantry along with my father. It would be enlightening to speak to all of these heroes and have their stories told. Several of them have died in the past few years, yet there is a wealth of stories that could be brought to light by these brave men. I wish I had the time to do this. I love my father very much, and I now realize how little I know of his experiences. In the past, he seemed reluctant to speak of them. I think it is time I try to document his life before it is too late.