Korean War Veteran is active volunteer at Hispanics United of Buffalo

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Commissioner of Senior Services Randy Hoak, members of the Senior Services department, and enthusiastic seniors last week at Hispanics United of Buffalo to honor Mr. Juan Negron as “Senior of the Month” for March 2016. Mr. Negron was awarded several honors for his service in the Korean War and in 2015 attended a special White House ceremony hosted by President Obama to honor the Borinqueneers, a U.S. Army Regiment comprised of Puerto Rican soldiers, with the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor to the Regiment.

“Mr. Negron is a great example of someone who served their country and now serves their community giving of himself to help others,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Erie County’s seniors are active, involved, and continue to contribute to making our community a better place.”

“Juan is a decorated veteran who is enjoying his retirement by helping others and being a part of the vibrant community at Hispanics United,” added Commissioner Hoak. “He’s truly a member of the greatest generation and we are proud to honor him as March’s Senior of the Month.”

Mr. Negron, a Puerto Rican native, began his service in Korea in June 1957 and went on to receive the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor along with numerous other awards during his outstanding wartime service. He married the love of his life, Juanita, in 1960 and together the Negron’s welcomed three children, daughters Vivian and Janet and son Edwin. Following Mrs. Negron’s passing in 2007, Juan immersed himself in life at Hispanics United of Buffalo. He works with and supports causes such as the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Vets First Honor Guard, and Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Town and is a regular volunteer at the Center who assists in driving members to doctors’ visits and other appointments.