National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

Festive decorations are placed at the tables in the Fall Hall Community Center, Oct. 27, 2015, in celebration of this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Observance. Posters with information on historical figures and events were also placed throughout the hall in support of the event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Malcolm Mayfield)

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

A piñata welcomes people as they line up for food in the Fall Hall Community Center, Oct. 27, 2015, during this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Observance. Those in attendance were treated to a variety of Hispanic dishes as well as music in support of the culture. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Malcolm Mayfield)

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

Airman 1st Class Richard Sanchez, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron technician, speaks about his girlfriend’s grandfather’s experiences during the time of the Cuban Revolution in the Fall Hall Community Center, Oct. 27, 2015, during this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Observance. Sanchez read inserts pulled directly from a journal written during the time. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Malcolm Mayfield)

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

Published Oct. 28, 2015
By 1st Lieutenant Justin Smith
90th Comptrollers Squadron

F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Our Air Force is a strong reflection of the multiple cultures represented in our country today. The different ethnicities, races and backgrounds each Airman brings to the fight build on the common grounds of integrity, service and excellence.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time for me to share a piece of my background with others.

We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a look back at history as well as a look to future accomplishments still on the horizon. We also reflect on the inspirational and encouraging contributions made by Hispanic Americans to our military and country.

Men and women of Hispanic descent have helped set the path for many generations to come - such as the actions of Medal of Honor recipient Corporal Joseph H. De Castro of the Union Army at Gettysburg during the American Civil War and Olga Custodio, who was the first Latina to become a captain for American Airlines.

This year's celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month was observed Oct. 27 with traditional foods like tamales, pernil and arroz con gandules. Salsa and merengue rhythms kept the atmosphere light and cheerful as attendees enjoyed guest speaker Airman 1st Class Richard Sanchez's personal reflection on Cuban culture and way of life.

If you were unable to attend this event, I encourage you to take the time to learn more about the Hispanic culture and its impact on our Country. Recognizing the heritage each Airman represents not only pays respect to different cultures around the world but ultimately adds to our Air Force Heritage as well.

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National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2015