LULAC VETERAN'S DAY MESSAGE 2024: HONORING LATINO MILITARY SERVICEMEMBERS AND THEIR COMMITMENT TO AMERICA

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Champions Men and Women From Many Backgrounds United in Service to Our Country

Washington, DC - Today, on this Veteran's Day, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) expresses its profound gratitude and recognition of the Latino men and women who have served proudly, loyally, and honorably in the United States military. Their service has shaped the fabric of our nation and Puerto Rico, building a legacy of strength, sacrifice, and enduring patriotism.

Roman Palomares, LULAC National President, Chairman of the Board, and Vietnam-era veteran, shares, "LULAC is proud of America's veterans because they have been the backbone of our country throughout its history—not only defending it on battlefields far from home but now in our communities as our neighbors, friends, and family members who deserve our respect for their courage and continued example of what it is to be an American. LULAC is committed to supporting its veterans and to repatriating its heroes who have been deported."

Throughout the history of the United States, Hispanic service members have stepped forward to defend freedom and uphold the ideals of democracy. They are pillars within our communities whose commitment to this country continues beyond their time in uniform. From the decorated war heroes of past generations to those returning from service today, their stories remind us that America's spirit is strengthened by diversity and resilience.

One month past her 17th birthday, Livier J. Lazaro was fresh out of El Monte High School in the San Gabriel Valley of Southern California when she enlisted in the U.S. Army to become a combat medic. The daughter of immigrant parents who were farmworkers, her mother's words echoed in her mind, 'the most respected person in this country is a veteran.' Twenty years later, following two tours in Iraq, Lazaro, Retired SFC, Army, says she truly realized the high price many veterans pay to serve their country.

Another courageous veteran is Manny Valenzuela of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is one of five brothers who proudly served in the U.S. military. Despite his honorable service, Manny faced an uncertain future with years of battling the threat of deportation. His story exemplifies many veterans' challenges after serving a country that remains indebted to them. Manny fought in court with the same valor he displayed on the battlefield—a testament to the unyielding dedication of veterans.

In Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Luis Pardo is a beacon of inspiration. Serving 20 years in the National Guard, Luis defended his homeland and harnessed skills that led him to a successful career as an industrial engineer. His leadership and example encourage the youth in Puerto Rico to view military service as a pathway to personal and professional growth. His dedication to self-improvement and community upliftment embodies the best of what service can offer.

The story of Danitza "Dee" James is one we proudly share this Veterans Day. She arrived in the United States from Sonora, Mexico, at 16 and settled in Yuma, Arizona. Just before that fateful day of 9/11 in 2001, she enlisted in the U.S. Army, where she served for six years on active duty, including two combat tours in Iraq. She distinguished herself as a heavy-wheeled vehicle operator and convoy security team leader in dangerous missions through the Zuni triangle in Iraq.

However, not all stories are met with resolution at home. Ricardo Muñoz, a deported veteran now living in Juárez, Mexico, represents one of thousands of non-citizen service members who answered the call of duty only to face exile. These veterans await the fulfillment of a promise to repatriate those who served this nation with honor, a cause that LULAC is fervently dedicated to supporting.

The tale of Anthony Noriega, a Vietnam veteran who has committed his post-service life to aid other veterans in navigating complex V.A. systems, further illustrates the quiet battles many veterans face daily. Many suffer from conditions like PTSD, unrecognized during their time of service, and struggle alone for years before understanding the source of their hardships. Anthony's tireless work has provided relief and a voice to those who deserve acknowledgment and care.

Lawrence Romo, LULAC National Vice President for Veterans Affairs, echoes this sentiment: "The stories of brave veterans are many. Yet today, we may often walk by them in our daily lives and not even be aware that they are served in uniform. Let us hope that when we do meet a veteran, we will thank them and extend a hand of gratitude and appreciation. They were there for us, and now we must be here for them."

This Veteran's Day, LULAC calls upon all Americans to reflect on the contributions of our veterans and to commit to supporting those who have given so much for our freedom. Their stories—of bravery, struggle, and hope—are woven into the fabric of this nation, reminding us that unity and compassion are the paths forward. Let us honor their service with words and action, ensuring that no veteran is forgotten or left behind.

LULAC stands proudly in its mission to celebrate, uplift, and fight for the rights of all veterans, ensuring they find their rightful place at home in the nation they defended.

###

About League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit https://lulac.org/.