07/08/2025
BCGMCNC Obituary: Colonel Manuel Felix Siverio (Ret.)
March 31, 1921 – July 7, 2025
Colonel Manuel F. Siverio, U.S. Army (Ret.), passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 3:15 PM CST, surrounded by his loving family. He was 104 years old.
Born on March 31, 1921, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Manuel faced immense challenges from the very start. He became an orphan before the age of six, losing both of his parents to tuberculosis, which had become rampant in Puerto Rico following the U.S. occupation of 1898. In a time of limited opportunity and scarce healthcare, Manuel’s childhood was marked by hardship—but also by an early and enduring strength of character. From those humble and painful beginnings arose a man whose life would exemplify service, courage, and unwavering commitment to others.
Colonel Siverio began his distinguished military career by joining the United States Army and proudly served in the 65th Infantry Regiment, better known as the Borinqueneers—a segregated unit of Puerto Rican soldiers whose extraordinary valor and sacrifices helped shape American military history. During the Korean War, Manuel commanded Company E, leading his men through some of the fiercest fighting of the conflict.
On December 11–12, 1951, near Toyon-ni, Korea, then-Captain Siverio risked his life under intense enemy fire to rescue wounded soldiers and direct artillery strikes that silenced heavily fortified enemy positions. For his gallantry in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, a second Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart.
Over a nearly 24-year career, he rose to the rank of Colonel, earning the respect of all who served alongside him.
In 2016, Colonel Siverio and José Colón received the Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of the 65th Infantry Regiment known as the Borinqueneers to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the U.S. Congress, in recognition of the regiment’s historic service and heroism. He also spoke on behalf of the soldiers of the regiment.
During his military service Colonel Siverio was the State Director of the Selective Service for the island of Puerto Rico during the Vietnam War.
Yet Colonel Siverio’s legacy extended far beyond his military service. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—a quiet pillar of strength whose humility, kindness, and moral compass shaped the lives of those around him. He shared stories not to glorify war, but to pass down the lessons of leadership, loyalty, and perseverance.
He is survived by his current wife Rosa Siverio and beloved children: Maria Ileana, Manuel Jr., and Maria Isabel; his cherished grandchildren: Diana, Levy, and Nolan; and his treasured great-grandchildren: Alden and Talia.
Colonel Manuel F. Siverio lived a century of purpose and principle, rising from hardship to become a national hero and moral example. His final moments were spent peacefully, embraced by the love and gratitude of the family he built and the country he served.
A private memorial service will be in Pensacola, Florida before a full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery later this year.
Rest in peace, Colonel Siverio. Your courage shaped a generation, and your legacy will echo far beyond your lifetime. ¡Honor et Fidelita!
