It was our honor to be present at the book signing of “The Borinqueneers” by author Noemi Figueroa Soulet, who had a very successful book signing at the Perth Amboy Public Library on October 28th. We were also honored to be in the presence of Ervin Machado, who was one of the Borinqueneers.
After the slideshow presentation which included a narrative of some of the photos in the book, Noemi Soulet asked Mr. Machado to come sit next to her for a question and answer period. After that segment, a long line formed to purchase her book. There were two things that they did not anticipate: the large number of books sold that night, which would leave them short of books for her next book signing in Newark the following evening. The second pleasant surprise was the number of people who asked Mr. Machado to also sign the book.
I don’t know who was more excited – Mr. Machado or the people who requested his signature. One of Mr. Machado’s relatives remarked that any time she takes him somewhere, he is always recognized. Sometimes a short trip to the Supermarket turns into a trip much longer than anticipated.
Noemi also mentioned that even though she is from New York, it is the New Jersey people who show her the most love and support. She acknowledged Sam Delgado who is the one who helped get the word out on the importance of her book. I will refer to Sam Delgado as Noemi’s “Wingman.” You can tell by how emotional she was that she appreciated all of his help.
Also, in her book, she had listed other states that had parks honoring the Borinqueneers and was thrilled that Perth Amboy will be the latest to honor them. So, for the upcoming Veteran’s Day it was fitting that we have a member of the 65th Puerto Rican Regiment in our presence and we urge all to get a copy of that book.
It was reported that there was one young man with tears in his eyes and so proud to hear of the accomplishments and achievements of the men who proudly fought in the US Army that made him so proud of his heritage.
Photos are worth a thousand words. C.M.
