Review: The Men of the 65th

 “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.