The Flagship 10.08.15 by Military News

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | OCT 8, 2015 | THE FLAGSHIP | A5

celebratingheritage

NECC OBSERVES NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

WPNSTA Yorktown celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH

By Mark O. Piggott Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Public Affairs

YORKTOWN

Naval Weapons Station (WPNSTA) Yorktown struck a chord with the theme “Energizing Our Nation’s Diversity” at a celebration for National Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 23, at Nelson Chapel. Hispanic Heritage Month begins on Sept. 15 and ends on Oct. 15, covering the anniversary of independence of several Latin American countries and Columbus Day. “Ever since John Adams established our Colonial Navy, Latinos, Hispanics, and Chicanos have served our country with distinction,” said MM2(SS) Gabriel Baltezar, master of ceremonies for the celebration. “It can be said, that the path to democracy in the United States was forged through the blood, sweat, and tears of our immigrant population who came to America with hopes of a better tomorrow.” According to the Navy History and Heritage Command, the Navy recognizes the service of nearly 70,000 Sailors and civilians of Hispanic heritage who comprise approximately 11 percent of our active, reserve, and civilian forces. National studies point out that in three decades, minority chil-

dren born today will constitute the majority in the U.S. “We all have a big responsibility to the new racial majority of Americans,” said Dr. Jorge Yinat, guest speaker at WPNSTA Yorktown’s Hispanic Heritage program. Yinat, a 28-year veteran of the Army, served in many overseas assignments and combat tours, including Operations Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is currently the president and CEO of James | Williams | York & Company, the only Hispanic business and management consulting ﬁrm in Hampton Roads. “The new waves of American minorities will need all of us to guide them, coach them, inspire them, and point them in the right direction,” he continued. “It is our time now to reach out to the new generation, because our efforts in the development of individuals coming from all walks of life will translate into the betterment of our American society as a whole.”

Thirty-nine Hispanics serving in the Navy were awarded the Medal of Honor, which is more than any other identifiable ethnic group. The story of the hard working immigrant family parallels the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. “Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service,” Baltezar said. “They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community.” “We are all Americans and we are in this journey of the American experience together,” Yinat concluded. “Immigrants, minorities, and foreigners will continue to greatly contribute to our nation, and our nation will become richer, more vibrant, and more economically successful because of our efforts and sacrifices.”

As Latin music played in the background and a variety of Hispanic themed dishes were being served, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) personnel gathered to attend a National Hispanic Heritage Month event at the Little Creek headquarters, Sept. 24. National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, is held to celebrate the contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. Chief Yeoman Karla Gonzalez, NECC staff member who attended the observance, appreciated the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich diversity of her Hispanic heritage. “These types of events help to break down barriers and stereotypes that may exist, but also provide context to our contributions to the Navy and nation, while showcasing our heritage and where we came from,” Gonzalez said.

Olga Torres, president of the Hampton Roads Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, served as guest speaker advising the attendees to get involved in their communities to increase the awareness of the Hispanic culture. “I enjoy giving back to the community and share our history and heritage with others, and as this observance comes around every year it provides more opportunities to learn about our culture,” said Torres. This year’s Presidential Proclamation, issued Sept. 14, spoke to the many faces of America’s Hispanic community and its role in shaping our nation. “Hispanics contribute to our Nation’s success in extraordinary ways – they serve in the military and government, attend schools across America, and strengthen the economy,” according to the proclamation. “Each day, we see the tremendous impact they have on our communities, and they reﬂect an enduring truth at the heart of our nation: no matter where you come from or where your roots are, with hard work and perseverance, you can make it in America.”

Mid-Atlantic region observes National Hispanic Heritage Month

MCC Nate Guimont Lt. Mario Amaro, a chaplain assigned to Naval Surface Force Atlantic, addresses Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic personnel during a National Hispanic Heritage Month observance.

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