Hispanic Heritage Month observance set for Oct. 11

Our Nation recognizes National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. During this time, we honor the culture and contributions of persons who trace their origin or descent to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Central and South America, and other Spanish cultures.

People who identify their origin as Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish may be of any race. This year's theme is “Todos Somos, Somos Uno: We Are All, We Are One.”

I would ask that each of you take the time next Wednesday, Oct. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., to attend the special observance being held in the Professional Development Center Auditorium. WSMR is hosting Denise Chávez, a Las Cruces borderland author who has been awarded multiple prestigious literary awards, as the guest speaker. There will also be cultural food samples to partake in following the event.

For generations, Hispanic Americans have demonstrated allegiance to our Nation through military and public service. According to the DoD demographic data for 2022, over 8 percent of DoD civilian employees indicate Hispanic ethnicity and approximately 19 percent of active-duty military personnel identify as Hispanic or Latino.

They are a vital component of our Total Force and in accomplishing our mission. Leveraging the diverse talents, perspectives, and experiences of personnel with Hispanic heritage contributes to operational success. We value the past and present contributions of Service members and DoD civilian employees of Hispanic heritage.

As we celebrate the achievements of our Hispanic military and civilian employees, the Department of Defense recognizes the operational advantages this diverse and dynamic community provides to operations at home and abroad.

MSG Kristopher D. Norville

Equal Opportunity Advisor