Let's celebrate: HHM festivities held at Moody

by Airman 1st Class Ceaira Tinsley
23d Wing Public Affairs

10/3/2014 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Team Moody members mingled and tasted Hispanic inspired dishes during the Hispanic Heritage Month luncheon here Oct. 2.

The Hispanic Heritage Month committee hosted the luncheon and this year's theme was "Many Backgrounds, Many Stories ... One American Spirit."

"We gathered to celebrate the diversity and experience of our nation's Hispanic Americans ... they have served in today's Air Force and can trace their roots back to the United States Army Air Force," said U.S. Air Force Col. Andra Kniep, 23d Wing vice commander. "Hispanics, both men and women have reached the top ranks of our Air Force and served with both courage and honor."

The history of Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 when it was only a week long observation. President Ronald Reagan later expanded it to be recognized for a 30-day period from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

"Each year Americans observe the National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America," said Staff Sgt. Lionel Garcia, 23d Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter. "The day of 15 September is significant because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries."

Notably, the Hispanic population continues to grow with more than 157,000 Hispanics serving in the armed forces and approximately 134 serving at Moody.

"According to the 2010 Census 50.5 million people or 16 percent of the population are Hispanic or Latino origin," said Chief Master Sgt. Guillermo Castillo Jr., 74th Aircraft Maintenance Unit superintendent. "We are the No.1 growing population in America and will continue to positively impact the military, economics, politics, education and society for generations to come."

The luncheon featured a Hispanic inspired menu including: pernil (pork), yellow rice with pigeon peas, green salad and tres leches (milk cake).

Castillo also served as the luncheon's featured speaker emphasizing that America is made of many different heritages and highlighted a few Hispanics who have helped shape history and answered their nation's call.

"It is this diversity that has developed and defined America as a melting pot and a great world power," said Castillo. "It is this diversity that I have come to appreciate and celebrate."

Castillo left the guest in attendance with these final words: "United we stand, divided we fall and together we can make a difference. Together we are America's past, present and future with many backgrounds, many stories and one American spirit."