Tito Puente, the legendary Latin music icon, not only introduced Latin rhythms to mainstream America but also served his country with distinction during World War II.
Tito Puente, the "Mambo King," was a musical pioneer who bridged cultures through his infectious rhythms. Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Puente became a global sensation, spreading Latin music far and wide. However, behind his stage persona of joy and exuberance lay a hidden chapter of wartime bravery.
At the outbreak of World War II, teenage Puente joined the U.S. Navy and embarked on nine perilous battle missions aboard the escort carrier USS Santee. Despite being a shipboard musician and bugler, he was trained to fight at sea.
Tito Puente: The American Who "Mambo'd" 'America'
During the Battle of Leyte Gulf on St. Crispin's Day 1944, a Japanese kamikaze plane crashed into the Santee, killing four of his shipmates. Puente witnessed the horrors of war firsthand, leaving scars on his face and his soul.
After the war, Puente returned home as a decorated veteran but kept his wartime experiences a secret. He found solace in music, honing his skills at the prestigious Juilliard School. By the 1950s, he had emerged as a hitmaker, fusing Latin rhythms with jazz and other genres.
Tito Puente: The American Who "Mambo'd" 'America'
Puente's signature song, "Oye Como Va," became a global smash and a crossover hit in 1962. It later gained even greater fame when Carlos Santana recorded it in 1970, introducing Puente's music to a new generation of fans.
Puente's talent and creativity earned him numerous awards, including six Grammys. He received the National Medal of Arts from President Clinton and was recognized as a "living legend" by the Library of Congress.
Tito Puente: The American Who "Mambo'd" 'America'
Despite his global fame, Puente never forgot his roots. His childhood home in Spanish Harlem has been renamed Tito Puente Way, and a vibrant mural adorns the corner of the street.
Puente's legacy extends beyond his music. He was a proud American who served his country honorably. His son, Tito Puente Jr., was honored with a Purple Heart commendation in his father's honor in 2018.
Tito Puente: The American Who "Mambo'd" 'America'
Tito Puente's story is an extraordinary tale of bridging cultures, navigating adversity, and triumphing through music. His contributions to Latin music and his unwavering patriotism continue to inspire generations of Americans.
