May 20 ,2026 – Humberto Solis Jurado, an 89-year-old Bay of Pigs veteran whose extraordinary journey included surviving the failed 1961 invasion of Cuba and escaping to safety, was recently honored with a heartfelt bedside recognition ceremony at Noelito Assisted Living in Miami. Organized by his VITAS Healthcare hospice team, the tribute celebrated Humberto’s military service, resilience and enduring legacy.
A member of Brigade 2506, Humberto was among the Cuban exiles who took part in the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion, an effort backed by the U.S. to liberate Cuba from Fidel Castro’s regime. After the mission failed and many were captured or killed, Humberto survived by hiding in Cuba’s mangroves before ultimately escaping to the United States.
Now living with advanced dementia, Humberto was recognized by his hospice care team after Chaplain Asdrúbal Forte Verea learned of his extraordinary story during a routine visit. Working alongside Nancy Auster, VITAS veteran liaison and admissions nurse, the team organized a personalized bedside tribute honoring Humberto’s courage and sacrifice.
The ceremony featured the Cuban flag, the Cuban national anthem and a certificate of appreciation recognizing Humberto’s bravery. He was also presented with a handmade American flag blanket, crocheted by a VITAS hospice volunteer, as a symbol of gratitude for his service and enduring strength. Humberto’s son attended the ceremony, witnessing a deeply meaningful moment of recognition decades after the events that shaped his father’s life.
For almost 50 years, VITAS has served the Cuban community in South Florida, building trust through cultural understanding and compassion. As one of the remaining members of Brigade 2506, Humberto represents a powerful and often overlooked chapter in history. His story reflects VITAS Healthcare’s commitment to seeing the whole person behind every plan of care and ensuring patients’ lives are honored with dignity.
