ALCOAST 303/19 - SEP 2019 NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

R 201102 SEP 19
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-00H//
TO ALCOAST
UNCLAS //N01650//
ALCOAST 303/19
COMDNOTE 1650
SUBJ:  NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
1. During National Hispanic Heritage Month (15 SEP – 15 OCT), we recognize the
contributions made by and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans
in the United States; we celebrate their heritage and culture. “Hispanic Americans:
A History of Serving Our Nation” is the theme for this year’s celebration. This theme
invites us to reflect on the many ways Hispanics have had a profound and positive
influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work,
and service.
2. Today, 57.5 million people (18 percent of the American population) are of Hispanic
or Latino origin. This represents a significant increase from 2000, which registered
the Hispanic population at 35.3 million or 13 percent. Hispanic individuals shine
across all areas and all aspects of American life; they serve as Civil Rights leaders,
politicians, military members, educators, entertainers, first responders, science
pioneers, sports champions, public servants, and throughout many other careers.
Among notable Hispanic Americans in history are: Cesar Chavez, labor leader;
Celia Cruz, singer; Roberto Clemente, baseball player, Luis Walter Alvarez, Nobel
Prize-winning physicist; Isabel Allende, author; Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice
of the United States Supreme Court; Dr. Ellen Ochoa, first Hispanic woman in space;
George Lopez, comedian; and Master Sergeant Raul Benavidez, United States Army (ret.),
Medal of Honor recipient.
3. This year, many Coast Guard members and employees were recognized by various
Hispanic Affinity Organizations for their outstanding achievements, contributions,
and exemplary service. Petty Officer Carlos Figueroa, Air Station Miami, Florida,
received the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Excellence in Service
Award. Latina Style conferred Meritorious Service Awards on CDR Blanca Rosas,
Sector Key West, Florida; Ms. Xiomara Torres, CG Exchange System, Aguadilla,
Puerto Rico; and Cadet 1st Class Christina Gonzales, Coast Guard Academy.
Additionally, PO Officer Luis Ortiz, USCGC PAUL CLARK (WPC-1106), Miami, Florida,
received the National Image Meritorious Service Award.
4. Throughout the month-long celebration, all personnel are encouraged to recognize
the accomplishments of Hispanic Americans in service to our Nation and the Coast Guard.
For more information, contact Mr. Juan Torres, (202) 372-4594 or Juan.L.Torres@uscg.mil.
5. Dr. Terri A. Dickerson, Director, Civil Rights Directorate, sends.
6. Internet release is authorized.