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Leading with Legacy: How Heritage forged a U.S. Army Soldier

By Sgt. Ashley FletcherOctober 14, 2024

Hispanic Heritage: Sgt. First Class shares his journey.
U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Elisban A. Bazan, maintenance manager, 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward (TSC-FWD), poses for a photo at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Sept. 25, 2024. The 79th TSC-FWD provides trained and ready logistics units for worldwide operations and deployment. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ashley Fletcher) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL
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VICENZA, Italy - National Hispanic Heritage Month offers a time to celebrate the cultures, histories and achievements of Hispanic Americans across the United States and within the military. U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Elisban Bazan, a maintenance manager with the 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward, currently assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), shares his story of immigrating to the United States and becoming a mentor in the Army.

Bazan’s story is one of resilience, adaptability and pride. Born in Lima, Peru, Bazan moved to the United States in the early 2000s. He found himself transitioning between two different cultures. In 2004, he answered the Army’s call to serve after hearing radio advertisements. His journey started with language barriers and cultural adjustments; however, Bazan remained committed.

“I remember hearing on the radio, ‘Join the Army! We need you,’” Bazan recalled. “It was 2004, and with the war going on, the advertisements were everywhere. I said ‘I’ll do it,’ and I was all in”

His early days in the Army were challenging, particularly with language barriers. His perseverance paid off when he graduated second in his class at advanced individual training (AIT), despite early struggles with pronunciation and language comprehension.

“I remember in AIT, reading was a struggle. But I told myself ‘I don’t care. I’m going to keep going.’” Bazan continued.

His unique perspective as an immigrant influenced his interactions with fellow Soldiers, especially those facing similar challenges. Bazan says he understands the struggles of others, whether they are Hispanic or from another background. Inspired by the mentors who guided him, he dedicates himself to helping others overcome, offering them purpose and encouragement.

“I’ve had great leaders who inspire me, and now I try to do the same for others. Seeing soldiers I've mentored thrive years later is one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” he said.

Reflecting on his own career, Bazan offers words of encouragement to Hispanic Soldiers and future recruits.

“The opportunities in the Army are endless,” he emphasized. “I went to school, earned my degrees—all paid for by the military. For those thinking of joining, there’s so much to gain. Yes, it takes hard work, but the benefits are worth it.”

Currently serving within SETAF-AF, Bazan emphasizes the unit's inclusivity and diversity. He explains that the diversity creates a welcoming environment where everyone’s background is respected. This diversity makes the organization stronger, allowing different perspectives and backgrounds to come together for a common mission.

“SETAF-AF is one of the most diverse organizations I’ve been part of,” Bazan said. “In my section alone, we have Soldiers from all over–Mexico, Guam, Kentucky–and I even met another Soldier from Peru the other day.”

As National Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, Bazan’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions and resilience of hispanic Soldiers within the U.S. Army. While Bazan is proud of his heritage, he is equally proud of his role in serving his adopted country, wearing both flags–American and Peruvian–with honor.

About Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This mid-September start date is significant as it coincides with the independence days of several Latin American nations: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on Sept. 15, followed by Mexico on Sept. 16, Chile on Sept. 18, and Belize on Sept. 21. This month celebrates Hispanic heritage and recognizes the impact Hispanic people have had on the United States, including the Armed Services.

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we pause and reflect on our shared history as Americans and celebrate the rich mosaic of people and cultures who build and strengthen our Army and our nation. This year’s national theme — “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power and Progress in America” — captures that spirit as we observe the unique and storied history Hispanic Americans have in the Army — serving and fighting in almost every war since our nation’s birth. Learn more about Hispanic Americans in the U.S. Army at https://www.army.mil/hispanics/.

About 79th TSC

The 79th Theater Sustainment Command provides mission command and operational-level sustainment support to United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), United States Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) and Army, Joint, and Multinational Forces in support of unified land operations.

About SETAF-AF

SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe.

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