Maxwell-Gunter holds Hispanic Heritage luncheon

Air War College international student, Lt. Col. Joel Guzman-Molina of the Mexican air force, talks to lunch guests about the heritage of Mexico and the importance of Hispanic members in the U.S. Air Force. Colonel Guzman-Molina was the guest speaker for this year's Hispanic Heritage Month lunch at the Maxwell Officers' Club Tuesday. (U.S. Air Force photo/Bennett Rock)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Maxwell-Gunter holds Hispanic Heritage luncheon

Published Oct. 16, 2009
By Carl Bergquist
Air University Public Affairs

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Celebrating Hispanic Heritage was the objective, and the Maxwell Officer's Club was the place for the 2009 Hispanic Heritage Month lunch, Tuesday.

The annual event was established during Lyndon Johnson's administration, and begins each year on Sept. 15 to honor the anniversary of five Latin American countries who gained their independence on that date. The countries are Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

"These [Hispanic Heritage Month] events can have a profound effect because they allow us to understand each other," said HHM chair, Maj. Claudine Wega. "For those of us born in other countries, these events are a reminder of the things in the United States that led to us to immigrate to the country."

Following introductory remarks and recognition of distinguished guest, Staff Sgt. Timothy Lyman, the lunch's master of ceremony, introduced the event's entertainment.

"Hispanic Heritage embraces many countries and cultures, and we are happy to have a team from the Fred Astaire Dancers to perform several Spanish dances for us," he said.

Jim Williams, lead dancer for the group, explained to the audience that Spanish music came first to the United States and was followed by the dances. He said they would perform a number of Hispanic dances to include the Mambo, Rumba and Tango, and he would explain the history behind each dance.

"My stepmother is Hispanic, and I learned from her that Spanish people are very sociable, and dancing is an extremely important part of Spanish life," he said. "Hispanic music is some of the most heartfelt, emotional and moving music in the world, and we [Americans] have made it a part of our society."

The guest speaker, Lt. Col. Joel Guzman-Molina of the Mexican air force, acquainted the audience with Mexican heritage, to include bullfighting, Mariachi bands, Hispanic costume, celebrations, festivals and Hispanic values. He talked about the importance of Hispanic members in the U.S. Air Force.

"Lt. Gen. Edward Quesada set the example for Hispanics in the Air Force by being the first Hispanic to reach the rank of general," he said. "Hispanic members have an impact on the [U.S.] Air Force, and the good relationship between the U.S. Air Force and the Mexican air force is part of that impact. Hispanic members are important because they help maintain the security of both the United States and Mexico."

He also talked about the importance of exchanging information between the U.S. Air Force and the Mexican air force.

"The exchange of information with Mexico comes through the Northern and Southern Commands, with the Southern Command coordinating the exchange through meetings held every six months," he said. "The exchange of information on a common frontier has led to increased exchange programs and training."

Col. Kris Beasley, 42nd Air Base Wing commander, closed the lunch by saying he appreciated Mr. Williams' dance histories, and he also appreciated the "great opportunity" the lunch provided.

"Seldom do we have such a good opportunity to discuss Spanish culture with a Hispanic guest speaker," he said. "This event has helped us recognize and appreciate the diversity of our military and country, and we thank Colonel Guzman-Molina for doing such a great job."