Published by Public Affairs Officer Elizabeth Martinez Gonzalez, dept.pr.pr@gmail.com
Today, the veteran community received numerous messages via their phones or online platforms informing them of the passing of our beloved Rambo Boricua, who was a National Hero at age 87.
Retired Veteran SFC Jorge Otero-Berrios from Vega Baja had been battling several health issues and was undergoing for years treatment for exposure to Agent Orange during his time in Vietnam in service of his country.
Otero-Barreto possessed a remarkable ability to consistently make others feel valued. He was always there to assist our children and youth through their involvement in boxing and basketball. Following his passing, I came across numerous messages on social media indicating that his support in sports had paved the way for many of them to become professionals today. The overwhelming gratitude expressed towards him was a testament to how he had helped them become the best versions of themselves through his respect, love, honor, and determination. It became evident that this respected veteran was adored by all for introducing them to sports while also emphasizing the importance of treating others with respect, love, and perseverance. Additionally, he played a crucial role in helping veterans access their entitled benefits by assisting them with their paperwork. Furthermore, he was a dedicated advocate for veterans, actively supporting them through his involvement with the American Legion Post 14 in Vega Baja. His life was dedicated to aiding our veterans.
During his time in the military, he carried out over 200 missions with great professionalism, earning him the nickname Rambo Boricua. Despite being injured multiple times, he emerged as the most decorated veteran of the Vietnam War and remains the most decorated veteran in Puerto Rico to this day. He enlisted in the U.S. Army around 1959, completing his basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Jump School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Otero-Barreto carried out five tours and 200 missions in Vietnam between 1961 and 1970. He was awarded a total of 38 military decorations, comprising three Silver Stars, five Air Medals, four Army Commendation Medals, five Purple Hearts, and five Bronze Star Medals with Valor. Due to these accolades, he has been recognized as both "the most decorated soldier of the Vietnam War" and "the most decorated Puerto Rican Veteran."
The schedule for his service is as follows:
On Tuesday, 15 October 2024, it will take place at Fuente de Luz, Cementerio de Vega Baja from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
On Wednesday, 16 October 2024, it will be held at Cementerio Municipal Nuevo de Vega Baja at 1:00 p.m.
The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico, and the Vietnam Veterans of America stand together with the Otero-Barreto family during this time of loss, offering prayers for their comfort, peace, and resilience in this challenging moment with the loss of our Rambo Boricua. May he Rest in Peace.
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