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Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month: SFC Ignacio Ortiz Marrero Reflects on Cultural Identity and Duty to Country

By Colin BroadstoneOctober 11, 2023

(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor Hispanic culture and the contributions of Hispanic Americans. One of those individuals who makes a difference in the U.S. Army every day is Sergeant First Class (SFC) Ignacio Ortiz Marrero, a Chaplain's Assistant with the U.S. Army 7th Signal Command (Theater). SFC Ortiz credits his Hispanic heritage with instilling the values of respect and selfless service, which led him to a 20-year U.S. Army career.

SFC Ortiz fondly recalls growing up in Puerto Rico, where "the crowing of roosters and the aroma of brewing coffee" marked the start of each day on his family’s farm. He added that strong family bonds were too central to his identity. "Growing up with them was about learning how to treat people, how to be respectful."

On September 11, 2001, SFC Ortiz was working as a respiratory therapist in a hospital, but the events of that day ignited a profound sense of duty in him. He describes it as a "shock that led me to make the life-altering decision to enlist in the U.S. Army."

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With the guidance of his cousin, an Army recruiter, SFC Ortiz left his job and enlisted, marking the beginning of a new chapter. He intended to serve for just four years, but instead, he found his calling. He trained as a Religious Affairs Specialist (56M) and experienced many deployments, which taught him the true value of friendship and resilience—but the most important lesson was gratitude. "You learn not to take anything for granted," he stated.

As a Chaplain's Assistant, SFC Ortiz provides essential religious support to military units, working closely with chaplains. This unique role allows him to connect with soldiers from diverse backgrounds, promoting faith and spiritual readiness.

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SFC Ortiz takes pride in his Puerto Rican heritage and values the sense of connection it provides in the military. He highlights the significance of legendary Puerto Rican figures, such as baseball player Roberto Clemente, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. He called Clemente “a source of pride for all Puerto Ricans.”

SFC Ortiz encourages Hispanic Americans to seize the opportunities the military offers, even if language barriers initially seem daunting. "The doors of the Army are open for those willing to embrace the challenge," he remarked, adding that the Army imparts values and life skills that endure long after retirement.

SFC Ignacio Ortiz's journey from Puerto Rico to a distinguished military career exemplifies the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month—a celebration of heritage, service, and pride in one's roots. His story serves as an inspiration to all who seek to honor their heritage by contributing to the nation's defense.