Article:
Ferdinand Ramos-Mercado, 91, recognized by President Obama as an original Borinqueneer
October 11, 2017
WILMINGTON — Retired U.S. Army (82nd Airborne E-9) Command Sgt. Maj. Ferdinand Ramos-Mercado, 91, made his final jump into the arms of the angels Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017. He was born in Sabana Grande, P.R., June 5, 1926, to Baldomero Ramos and Angela Mercado.
A jumpmaster and highly decorated “Boots on the Ground” Korean War and Vietnam veteran, Command Sgt. Maj. Ramos-Mercado proudly served the U.S. Army for 30 years. Among his many medals and honors were the Congressional Gold Medal, three Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars, the Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Legion of Merit Medal, the Distinguished Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and four Army Commendation medals. He was recognized by President Obama as an original Borinqueneer, among the first men from Puerto Rico to volunteer to serve in the U.S. Army in Korea.
Command Sgt. Maj. Ramos-Mercado was preceded in death by his loving wife, Guillermina Nieves, and is survived by his three children, Maria, Luis and Ferdinand Jr.; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as four of his 12 siblings.
A memorial Mass will be held at noon Thursday, Oct. 12, at St. Therese Catholic Church, Wrightsville Beach. Command Sgt. Maj. Ramos-Mercado will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors in recognition of his exemplary service to the United States of America. His wit, charm and love of family and country will be missed by all who knew him.
Published in Port City Daily newspaper.