 On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25th, 2026, as we pause to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, it's important to recognize the often-overlooked contributions of America's territories to our military history. The United States Virgin Islands, though small in size, has a proud tradition of military service that deserves recognition.
A Legacy of Service Since becoming a U.S. territory in 1917, Virgin Islanders have answered the call to serve in every major American conflict. From the trenches of World War I to the mountains of Afghanistan, Virgin Islanders have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their stateside counterparts, demonstrating courage and commitment despite being thousands of miles from the continental United States. Virgin Islanders have fought in:
Remarkable Service Rates The Virgin Islands consistently demonstrates one of the highest rates of military service per capita in the nation. According to historical data, the percentage of Virgin Islanders serving in the U.S. military has often exceeded that of many states:
Notable Contributions Virgin Islanders have made their mark in every branch of the military, earning countless medals for valor and service. The 65th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Borinqueneers," included many soldiers of Virgin Islander heritage who distinguished themselves during the Korean War. The territory has also contributed to national defense in other ways. During World War II, the Virgin Islands served as an important strategic outpost for the U.S. Navy, protecting Caribbean shipping lanes from German U-boats. This Memorial Day As we enjoy our Memorial Day weekend with family and friends, let's take a moment to remember the Virgin Islanders who have given their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice reminds us that patriotism knows no geographic boundaries and that the commitment to American ideals extends far beyond the continental shores of the USA. To the families of fallen Virgin Islander service members: we see your sacrifice, we honor your loved ones, and we thank you for the gift of their service. May we always remember that freedom is never free, and it has been paid for by brave men and women from all corners of our nation, including those beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Sincerely, Customer Relations Team Love City Car Ferries, Inc. Phone: 340-779-4000 Website: https://www.lovecitycarferries.com/ Email: [email protected] Comments are closed.
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