Fort Campbell’s Lifeliners Observe Hispanic Heritage

Written by Sgt. Sinthia Rosario
101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs

Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan – Service members and civilians take time to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, hosted by Task Force Lifeliner, October 11th, 2013, at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

Over the years Americans have observed the National Hispanic Heritage month from September 15th to October 15th, it’s a month to honor, recognize and celebrate the culture and its achievements.

September 15th was chosen as the start date of the celebration to coincide with the Independence Day celebration of five Hispanic-American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. However, Mexico and Chile observe their Independence on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.

During this event, the audience learned of the background history of the Hispanic Americans. Members of the audience were treated to traditional Hispanic music, dances and food. Staff Sgt. Cybelle Rey, a human resources noncommissioned officer with Task Force Lifeliner, recited a famous Hispanic poem from the early 20th century. The poem known as “Yo misma fui mi ruta”, (I Was My Own Route) was written by Puerto Rican Julia De Burgos.

Col. Robert M. Villalobos, the 1st Sustainment Command (Theater) Chief of Staff and the guest speaker of the observance, highlighted the Hispanic American service members who have fought and served in ranks of the United States military, from its beginnings.

“Hispanic Americans continue the legacy of exceptional service established by previous generation,” stated Villalobos.

He added that they have always served in the Army from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War II, Vietnam, Iraq and today in Afghanistan.

Villalobos, explained, “Hispanic Americans have defended our nation and demonstrated their allegiance to America with their military service.”

Hispanics have learned to adapt to a new way of life, but still maintained their heritage, throughout the years.

“We left our language, families and traditions,” explained Rey, a native of San Antonio. “It’s good to be able to celebrate who we are at least once a year. It keeps us close to our roots.”

Although this is a way to keep up with their traditions, it is also a way to educate others.

“This event teaches others how similar we are on some areas like foods, religions practice etc.,” Rey said.

Celebrating Hispanic culture is imperative due to its continued and overwhelming role and influence on the American way of life.