Hispanic Marines, past and present remembered

9/22/2009 By Lance Cpl. Damien Gutierrez , Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton

In honor of the many contributions made by the Hispanic community to the United States, our nation along with Camp Pendleton, will observe Hispanic Heritage month from Sept.15 to Oct. 15.

Hispanic Heritage month originally began in September 1968, with former President Lyndon B. Johnsons’ approval from Congress to devote an entire week to the Hispanic community. It was not until former President Ronald Regan stepped into office to expand the national observance into an entire month with respect to the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries.

This year’s Hispanic Heritage month theme is “Embrace the Fierce Urgency of Now,” a phrase used once before in Dr. Martin Luther King’s speech “I have a Dream.”

The Hispanic community has aided in the development of our country in many ways but one of the more commendable contributions is by defending it as United States Marines. Thirteen Hispanics throughout our Corps history have been Medal of Honor recipients.

Private France Silva was the first Hispanic Marine to receive the Medal of Honor during his valiant efforts throughout the Boxer Rebellion.

The Boxer Rebellion was an anti-imperialism, anti-Christian movement by the “Righteous Fists of Harmony” better known as Boxers, between 1898 and 1901 in China. Less than 15 Marines and sailors gave their life during the war against more than 20,000 Chinese imperial soldiers.

Silva was involved in the defense of diplomatic missions against the Boxers. He volunteered to aid other Marines in defending the Tartar wall, a 60 foot high and 40 foot wide barrier separating U.S. forces from all foreigners, and as an outcome was critically injured. He had been shot through his left elbow that ricocheted the bullet into his sternum during its defense. Although Silva was barely able to summon the strength to carry his weapon, he remained on duty relieving fellow Marines until he was ordered by the commanding officer to go seek medical attention.

Through his courageous acts, Silva became an inspiration to future Hispanic Marines.

Since the start of the Global War on Terrorism, five Marines of Hispanic ethnicity have been awarded the Navy Cross. On Nov. 15, 2004, Sgt. Rafael Peralta was severely wounded while conducting a house clearing. Not wanting his fellow Marines to suffer the same fate, he dove to the floor and moved aside in order to allow Marines to return fire. As the fire fight continued, Peralta found himself along with two other Marines staring death in the face when an insurgent tossed a grenade in between them. Still conscious on the floor, Peralta reached out for the grenade and embraced it under his body, killing him instantly, but saving the lives of those who needed him the most.

Silva and Peralta are ideal examples of the considerable contributions made by Hispanic Marines. Hispanic Marines have and continue to serve and protect the American way of life.

During Hispanic Heritage month, Pendleton residents are encouraged to take time to observe and commemorate those Hispanics whose dedicated service aided in the development of our country.

Ellie