BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- The 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade and Combined Joint Task Force-10 hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month observance here Oct. 10.
The celebration highlighted the achievements of Hispanics, both in and outside of the military.
The 82nd CAB brought a little bit of Hispanic America to Afghan-istan, taking minds off of the dangers lying just beyond the concrete barriers by providing cultural enlightenment through entertainment.
"We put on this celebration each year to bring awareness to the culture of Hispanics and their contributions within the military," said Sgt. 1st Class Shelly Kirk, brigade equal opportunity adviser, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade. "We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15."
For Col. Willie Rios III, commander of 10th Sustainment Bri-gade, 10th Mountain Division (LI), and a fourth-generation American who served as the guest speaker, this was an event that hit home.
"It's important to remind ourselves of the struggles and the service of many Hispanic Americans throughout our country," Rios said.
"I am honored to be a part of this celebration."
The celebration was highly decorated, showing pieces of multiple Hispanic cultures.
"The most challenging thing was trying to get everything here in theater in a timely manner," Kirk said. "All of the decorations took about a month to get in theater."
The celebration had more than a guest speaker; it included entertainment for the audience showcasing Hispanic culture.
"We had a series of performances," Rios said. "We had a team of salsa dancers, referred to as the 'Combat Salsa Team.' A Soldier also flew in from Kandahar to sing a Hispanic-themed song."
Rios concluded the ceremony with what the future may hold for Hispanics.
"Our future is bright, not only for Hispanics but for all minorities," Rios said. "(This celebration) reminds us of what a diverse country we have and the opportunities that are out there."
Social Sharing