"Honoring Yesterday, Appreciating Today, Inspiring Tomorrow" . . . . . . . the premier Mexican-American Veterans Association in America
Gallery of Events/Photos
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May 30th, 2016 - Memorial Day Celebration - at McCormick & Schmick:
UMAVA Group picture.
Nelida Yañez, US Army - UMAVA Color Guard Leader & Past UMAVA Commander & College Trustee
Francisco J. Barragán, Commander (US Marines & CA Army National Guard)
Ralph Colin, Vice-Commander (Vietnam combat veteran - US Army)
Sal Lujan, (Korea combat veteran - US Army)
posted by Carol Martinez
Memorial at McCormick & Schmidt
April 4, 2014 "Assemblyman Tom Daly recognition of the Youth Symphony on tour from Mexico"
UMAVA veterans and supporters joined with Assemblyman Tom Daly, representing the cities of Anaheim, Santa Ana, Garden Grove and Orange; to receive the Certificate of Recognition which Hon. Tom Daly was issuing to the "Sinfonica Juvenil de El Grullo, Jalisco, Mexico". UMAVA collaborated in bringing this 48 member Youth Symphony to play for free for the community at the "Santa Ana High School - Bill Medley Auditorium.
Nelida Yañez, US Army - UMAVA Color Guard Leader & Past UMAVA Commander & College Trustee
AnnaLisa Anunciacion, UMAVA member
Francisco J. Barragán, Commander (US Marines & CA Army National Guard)
Jan 31, 2013 - Courage To Remember (Holocaust Remembrance in Santa Ana, CA):
Pastor Frank Orzio gave a beautiful presentation at this traveling Holocaust Rembrance exhibit. Antonio Méndez, WWII Silver Star (and Nordhausen death camp liberator) was also present and met Elane Norych Geller, holocaust survivor and other dignitaries
UMAVA veterans speaking to thousands of students from over 18 high schools and at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum (founded in the memory of Captain Michael King Smith); and at community forums (this was UMAVA's third trip).
Antonio Méndez, WW II - US Army and Silver Star Recipient
Frank Ramírez, Korea - US Army and Silver Star Recipient
Ralph Colin, Vietnam - US Army and Bronze Star Recipient
Nelida Yañez, US Army - UMAVA Color Guard Leader & Past UMAVA Commander & College Trustee
Francisco J. Barragán, Commander (US Marines & CA Army National Guard)
Also, participating were the following WWII Tuskegee Airman: Col. Alex Jefferson, 90; Lt Col Eric Drummond, and Ben "Flaps" Berry; many other veterans of historical significance i.e.: Battaan Death March survivor; Pearl Harbor survivor; Native American Veterans from various tribal nations; and others
Oct 30, 2012: UMAVA Recognized Dick Butkus, NFL HOF 79; Dr Larry Santora, and Rina Santora RN for providing Free Heart Scans for Veterans:
Dick Bukus, who has been providing significant financial contributions for Free Heart scans for veterans in Orange County since Fall 2009, also served in the CA Army National Guard.
UMAVA members participating:
Commander Francisco Barragán
Frank Ramírez, Korea Combat Veteran - "Silver Star"
Ralph Colin, Vietnam / Sgt-at-Arms & UMAVA Board member
Pastor Francisco Parras Jr, Chaplain & UMAVA Board member
September 29, 2012: UMAVA participated with Olive St Reunion to Honor Fallen Heroes from Westminster: Please CLICK HERE for Newspaper Link. UMAVA is grateful to the Olive Street Reunion, neighborhood association for the opportunity to honor heroes from Westminster, especially to Frank Mendoza, US Navy (brother to Joe Mendoza, PFC Korean War- KIA; and uncle to Joe Mendoza jr, military veteran and UMAVA Secretary) UMAVA members participating:
Commander Barragán
Pastor Francisco Parras Jr, Chaplain
Antonio Méndez, WWII Silver Star & Elsie Méndez
Ralph Colin, Vietnam / Sgt-at-Arms
Pastor Frank Orzio, Vietnam / State Chaplain for the Military Order of the Purple Heart
July 21, 2012: UMAVA Recognizes Mayor Sharon Quirk-Silva (Fullerton): City of Fullerton Mayor Sharon Quirk-Silva was recognized by UMAVA with a "Certificate of Appreciation" for her strong community leadership, her support of our military veterans and families, and for her own family's military service.
UMAVA was also honored and privileged to have Fullerton Mayor Quirk-Silva perform the official induction of UMAVA's Board & Officers.
We are also grateful to Mayor Quirk-Silva for her own recognition of some of our UMAVA leaders for their advocacy efforts in our community including Francisco B. Parras Jr, UMAVA-Chaplain; and Commander Francisco J. Barragán.
We were also fortunate to have the Robert and Rosemary Calix join us, Rebeca Calix - their talented teenage daughter sang the Star-Spangled Banner for all of us.
Feb 19, 2012: Present the US Colors at Mexican Flag Day ceremony in Santa Ana: Commander Barragán led on the Pledge of Allegiance, and the SAHS NJROTC Presented the Colors led by US Navy Sr Chief Harry Oliver.
La Santanita also sang the Star Spangled Banner, and other songs in Spanish.
Commander Barragán also spoke on the opportunities created by the contributions and sacrifices by Active Duty troops and US military veterans, in particular Mexican-American Veterans.
Feb 15, 2012: Special Korea War Heroes medal by Korean Govt: Special medal was issued by S. Korean government in recognizing Korea War Veterans (Little Angels), in particular Mexican-American veterans. Sharing his experience at the special ceremony at the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center, was Robert Colin, Korea War veteran (one of five brothers who served in the US Military) posted by Commander Francisco J. Barragán
from L: Pacorro and Francisco J. Barragan, UMAVA Commander
Jan 18, 2012: UMAVA participates in Operation Military Kids in Santa Ana:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of OC (BBBS-OC) received a grant for Operation Military Kids (OMK). This grant will help provide special programs for children with a parent deployed within the last year. The OMK program will serve military kids ranging from 8-17 years old for an almost 2-year program.
Commander Barragán participated in the outreach planning sessions with other community leaders and organizations collaborating with BBBS-OC.
Commander Barragán was also recognized for serving the children of OC and his close to 4 years serving as a Big Brother and for his participation in BBBS-OC Latino Advisory Board, and OMK.
from L: Frank Ramirez; Francisco Barragan Commander, guest; Chaplain Fco. Parras Jr; and guest
Nov 17, 2011 - Veterans Appreciation Night with WWII Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient: UMAVA participated in "Veterans Appreciation Night" by Com Link a forum for neighborhood associations and community leaders.
WWII Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Walters Ehlers.
Commander Barragan's 9-yr old niece, Sara Ortiz, sang the National Anthem.
Pastor Frank Orzio delivered the Prayer
Commander Francisco Barragan shared UMAVA's values with guests
from Left: Mr David Lester, US-CIS Field Director; My wife Valeria-Associate Professor at Saddleback College; and Francisco J. Barragan, Commander-UMAVA
July 13th - UMAVA members in private reception with Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame (79):
USMC Cpl Alex Madrigal (provided Mr. Butkus with two small gifts - a wooden cross & "Support Our Troops" Flag.
Commander Barragan
Mr. Butkus & Dr Larry Santora, and Rina Santora RN (OC Vital Imaging) have been providing free heart scans for
veterans since December 2009, and which we have been communicating to
other veterans organizations Mr. Butkus also provided our UMAVA members with autographed books & autographed T-shirts with his #51.
Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame; Frank Ramirez, US Army-Korea Silver Star Recipient
July 9, 2011 - "Veterans Fair at Elks Lodge - Garden Grove:
Participating UMAVA Members:
Antonio Mendez (WWII - Silver Star), UMAVA Board Member; Elsie M.
Frank Ramirez (Korea - Silver Star); Alice R.
Dan Reyna (USMC - VN)
Pastor Frank Orzio (USMC - VN)
Ralph Colin (US Army - VN)
Maria T. Solis (ret. USAF); and Rufino Martinez (ret. USAF)
Francisco J. Barragan (USMC), Commander, UMAVA
Maria T. Solis-Martinez from the American G. I. Forum of the United
States, Rudy Escalante Chapter manned a table with material that was of
interest to the many Veterans and their families. Solis-Martinez was
eager to explain membership in the chapter.
Pastor Frank Orzio, a two time Purple Heart recipient, from the Santa
Ana based Wounded Warrior Ministry. Orzio is a Retired Marine
Sergeant,..a ''Two Time 'Purple Heart' Recipient" in the ''Viet-Nam''
War in 1968.
Sgt. Orzio was with the ''First Battalion, 7th.
Marine's, First Marine Division,...The ''106'' Recoilless Rifle Platoon,
attached to ''Suicide Charlie'' Company;
He Served with his Cousin Corporal George Waigandt, who is
now a ''Professor'' at the 'University of Columbia'' in Missouri;
Dr. Waigandt himself received Three ''Purple Hearts'' From Wounds
Received in Combat, and A Medal of ''Valor''..He Saved his Cousin Frank
after a ''Deadly Ambush' and Land-Mine Explosion;
Frank was ''Ordained'' in 2006,..Shortly after that He
Founded the Ministry that was to Change many Soldier's Life,..The
''Wounded Warrior Ministry''
When asked if They were ''Heroes'',..Both Cousins Look
at each other,..Eyes glistening with tears'' and Both agree with this
statement,..No,..We are not 'Heroes',...But We Served with a ''Bunch of
Them!'',...And The Real Heroes did not Come Home;
The ''Warrior's Ministry is a ''Non-Denomination''
Ministry,..We Do not Hold to any 'Religions',..We Hold only to The
''True Word of God'', as it is Written;
We Do-Not push 'Religion' on anyone,..You ''Bring Your
Faith'',.I Will Bring to you God's Word,...The Truth that is Taught in
The ''Book of Life''..The ''Bible''
Frank ministers with Sherrie His Wife and Co-Founder of
the ''Wounded Warrior's Ministry'', to Families of Soldiers who are
Serving in ''Harm's Way'' also visiting the ''Wounded'' at the Military
Hospitals.
March 26, 2011 - UMAVA members recognized by CA Senator Lou Correa & Assembly Member Jose Solorio at the Annual Cesar Chavez Celebration with individual Certificates of Recognition:
UMAVA also participated by:
Posting the Colors
Leading on Pledge of Allegiance by Ralph Colin, Sgt-at-Arms
Blessing by Pastor Francisco B. Parras Jr., Chaplain
Brief comments by Francisco Barragan, Commander - thanking SA Council Member Vince Sarmiento; and CA Senator Lou Correa, Chairman of Veterans Affairs and UMAVA Honorary Member;
Commander Barragan also gave special recognition by awarding:
"Lifetime of Service Award to Cesar E. Chavez" (delivered to representative of family);
"Certificate of Appreciation thanking and recognizing Assembly Member Jose Solorio"
We were also joined by Carlos Palomino, former World Boxing Champion, Army Veteran & UMAVA honorary member
February 19, 2011 - Celebrating & Honoring Eusebio Perez's memory with "Lifetime of Service Award":
Eusebio Perez would have been 95 on February 20, 2011. He was a Silver Star Recipient and served as a Tank Crew Member with General Patton's army in WWII. He passed to a better life on January 9, 2011. We were honored to be joined at our General Meeting by Eusebio's family, friends, and UMAVA members, as we shared our stories of Eusebio. CLICK Here for article "Veteran Honored" and pictures #2, #3 & #4 in the OC Register.
We
are grateful to Elks Lodge, and US Rep Loretta Sanchez for
hosting another successful Annual Veterans Fair at the Elks Lodge in Garden Grove. Other Dignitaries and veterans organizations and individuals were in attendance:
Spanning four decades, this presentation
and concert chronicled the rich musical history that helped shape and
characterize life in Mexican-American barrios and colonias. HISTORY of CHICANO MUSIC In
Southern California, 1940s through 1970s.
Reproducing the music of the past was the L.A. based band, The
Recessions. Additionally, an extensive photo collection of
the original history making artists was on display. 1940s - 1950s Era Attire was Encouraged.
This Event Educated, Entertained & Inspired
We
are grateful to OCMAHS and Harvey Reyes, President for hosting this great event, and for the open invitation. Harvey Reyes (former UMAVA Commander) also recognized UMAVA members present, and the work of all Veterans and military families.
July 4th, 2010 - "Independence Day Parade in Huntington Beach"
Happy 234th Birthday America! I arrived towards the end to this Huntington Beach Independence Day Parade, and happened to see Plantel Baja California.
Participating in this event honoring America's Independence were a Drum & Bugle Corps of teenagers from Mexicali, Mexico. They are CoBach, Colegio de Bachilleres del Estado de
Baja California, Plantel Baja California - LOBOS (Wolves) - similar to an ROTC . . . apparently they have been participating many years in various parades in several cities in Southern California in honor of America's Independence. PLEASE CLICK HERE for
Plantel Baja California - Video 1:
July 3rd, 2010 - "Independence Day Celebration in Santa Ana"
It was UMAVA's privilege to participate in celebrating America's Independence and 234th Birthday, and in honoring our military Veterans service to nation at the Santa Ana Public Library plaza.
We are grateful to Liberty House, Friends of the Santa Ana Public Library, Steve McGuigan-Master of Ceremonies, and all the other key participants and sponsors for hosting this great event. UMAVA contributed with a small donation.
Participating:
Presenting the Colors: Gabriel Vega, Sgt-at-Arms; and Fred Bella, Vice-Commander.
Special Prayer/Invocation: Pastor Frank Orzio, UMAVA Chaplain & decorated Vietnam veteran;
June 6th, 2010 - Remembering our Fallen Heroes at Huntington Beach
Desert Storm era veteran, Marine Cpl Alexander "Plumas" Madrigal, UMAVA Color Guard, periodically honors our Fallen Heroes at Huntington Beach from Sunrise to Sunset, work permitting, together alongside a local organization "Veterans for Peace". He takes 21-Steps from End-to-End. Cpl Madrigal has been honoring our Fallen, since Orange County's First Fallen Hero and our fellow brother-in-arms Marine Cpl Jose Angel Garibay's body was received by Mother Earth, and his spirit delivered to the Heavens.
June 6th, 2010 - Candlelight Vigil for Marine Cpl Jose Angel Garibay
Candlelight Vigil was led by Desert Storm era veteran, Marine Cpl
Alexander "Plumas" Madrigal, UMAVA Color Guard, who has been honoring Orange County's First Fallen Hero and our fellow brother-in-arms
Marine Cpl Jose Angel Garibay.
Participating on this vigil at Simona Garibay's home ("Gold Star" mom of Cpl Jose Angel Garibay):
UMAVA also participated and helped in the planning together with members of other veterans organizations. COL. David W. Sutherland, Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff - distinguished
Key-note Speaker.
Max Madrid, retired Navy Veteran & Special Assistant to CA Senator Lou Correa.
WWII 1st Lt. Hogencamp finally received his well deserved Silver Star for heroism during WWII.
Pictures by Commander Barragan
Image:
May 29, 2010 - "21st Annual Adelante Girls Conference by
MANA" "Adelante - means "Going Forward" in Spanish. UMAVA Board Member Nellie Kaniski, Executive
Director of MANA
de OC, and other Community partners hosted the all-day Saturday conference for the
benefit of young ladies, from Santa Ana high schools at Orange Coast College.
It was inspiring to hear these young, dynamic ladies ages from 12-17 express their plans and aspirations for the future, and how this conference hosted by MANA was key to their future. US Rep Loretta Sanchez- distinguished
Key-note Speaker.
May 8th, 2010 - "Young Men's Adelante Leadership Conference" "Adelante - means "Going Forward" in Spanish. UMAVA Board Member Nellie Kaniski, Executive Director of MANA de OC, and other Community partners hosted the all-day Saturday conference for the benefit of young men from four Santa Ana high schools.
Max Madrid, Special Military Assistant to CA Senator Lou Correa.
Luis Ortiz Jr. (CSUF student)
Jorge Zepeda, professional volunteer.
THEMES: Education; Opportunities with College, Ethics, Integrity, Team Building, Hard Work and Responsibility, and service to Nation in and out of the military.
Glenn Llopis picture provided by Nellie Kaniski. Pictures below
provided by Commander Francisco Barragan.
Glenn Llopis, Founder/CEO/Author/KeyNote Speaker - PLEASE CLICK ON PICTURE
Image:
April 30th, 2010: "Reflection on Black April - with the Vietnamese-American community" Friday April 30th, 2010 marked 35 years of the symbolic end of the Vietnam war and the contributions and sacrifices of the countless American veterans. The Vietnamese-American community refers to this Friday as "Black Friday" and that month as "Black April", to also reflect on the hardship and suffering of that time.
As we honor the service and contributions of our Veterans, and as we
join with our Vietnamese brothers and sisters to reflect on this day, it
is important to also remember the high price that the American Veteran
of Latino/Hispanic/Mexican-American descent paid in Vietnam.
In Vietnam Reconsidered,
a book published by Harper & Row in 1984 and edited by Pulitzer
Prize winning reporter Harrison Salisbury, Ruben Treviso wrote: "One
out of every two Hispanics who went to Vietnam served in a combat
unit.""One out of every five Hispanics who went to Vietnam was
killed in action."
The Latino Experience in
U.S. History, a book published for elementary schools by Globe
Fearon in 1994 and written by several University professors stated: "Latinos fighting in Vietnam had a 19 percent casualty rate compared to a
12 percent rate for U.S. soldiers as a whole."
Hispanics in America's
Defense, a book published in [1982] by the U.S. Department of
Defense, states: "In 1969, a study was released which examined Hispanics
participation in the war by analyzing casualty figures from two
periods: one from January 1961 to February 1967, and the other from
December 1967 to March 1969. The study revealed that for the two
periods, 8,016 men from the States of Arizona, California, Colorado, New
Mexico, and Texas had been killed. Of the number, over 19 percent had
Hispanic surnames."
3,741 names on the Vietnam Memorial in D.C., are Spanish surnames.
Therefore, 6.4% of our country's total casualties were Latinos. The
figure is likely higher as it does not count Latinos who did not have
Spanish surnames.
Therefore, the accurate number of Latino casualties during the
Vietnam War was approximately 7% of the total deaths. At that time
Latinos represented approximately 5% of the total population in the U.S.
Furthermore, there were Latino casualties were from every one of our 50
states.
5,572 soldiers from California died during the Vietnam War.
Listed in the National Archives and Records Administration (www.nara.gov/nara.electronic/cahrviet.html) are their full names,
home city, date of birth, date of death and if by hostile action. Of
those 5,572 names, 823 are Spanish surnamed. Therefore 15% of the
California casualties were Latino. At that time, Latinos represented
approximately 7% of California's population.
From Texas, 23% of the casualties were Latino. Jose Maria Herrera, a
doctoral candidate at Purdue University, wrote in his 1998 Master's
Thesis in the History Department of the University of Texas at El Paso,
that "of the 3,405 Texans killed in the Vietnam War, 784 were Latinos."
Furthermore, in New Mexico, Herrera found that "while Hispanics made
up 27 percent of that state's population, they accounted for 44 percent
of the deaths."
On April 22, 2000, Elaine Woo wrote in a Los Angeles Times article: "Latinos answered the call to combat in Vietnam in unprecedented numbers
and paid a heavy price: One in two Latinos who went to Vietnam served
in a combat unit, 1 in 3 were wounded in action, 1 in 5 we killed in
action."
Commander Barragan attended this event in Westminster in which many dignitaries were on hand.
Commander
Francisco J. Barragan spoke at the Board
of Trustees meeting of the Rancho Santiago Community College District
at Santa Ana College where students where also demonstrating in support
of education and in support of the Board of Trustees. Commander Barragan shared UMAVA's mission, the
various resources available at UMAVA's website or through his
professional contacts or UMAVA's members, for the benefit of the students, and in particular for
military veteran students. Commander Barragan also shared the
various activities UMAVA is engaged in with other community partners,
such as our "Veterans Coalition of OC" which is both beneficial to
military students and which also highlights their demonstrated
unsurpassed commitment, integrity and dedication in service to nation
which would also benefit any organization.
See in
particular Item 1.3 of the Board of Trustees Minutes. The Trustees
also recognized the SAC wrestling team.
March 16th, 2010 - Invocation "Welcome Back Home Vietnam Veterans Day" Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger designed March 30th, as the official day for California. March 30th marks the anniversary date of the completion in 1973 of the withdrawal of U.S. combat units and combat support units from the former South Vietnam.
Pastor Frank Orzio, UMAVA Chaplain (Vietnam Combat Veteran) read the special invocation he wrote for this special day, and on behalf of several Vietnam Veteran organizations he was representing.
Sherrie Orzio participated.
Alex Diaz, AGIF Chaplain took pictures.
Francisco "Paco" Barragan, Commander-UMAVA also participated.
This was a very special and emotional occasion for all present. City of Brea Mayor Ron Garcia (Vietnam Veteran) read the official resolution as he fought back tears and his emotions. It was a privilege to participate in a beautiful and emotional event.
Picture at Right was borrowed from VVA's website. Please Click on Logo to read Frank Orzio' beautiful invocation
Posted by Commander Francisco Barragan
Click on Picture to Read Pastor Frank Orzio's Special Invocation
March 5th, 2010: "Stolen Plaques Re-dedication at Santa Ana High School" Plaques honoring alumni from SAHS who served and died in various wars, were stolen. UMAVA made a small donation to the fund to replace these plaques as a result of Roman Reyna's, SAUSD Board Member, earlier presentation to UMAVA at our General Meeting.
Gabriel Vega, Korea War Veteran, and UMAVA's Sgt-at-Arms helped unveil the Korea Plaque, along with other Veterans, including Bob Thomas, Pearl Harbor Survivor.
This was a very special and emotional occasion for all present, and it was inspiring to have the SAHS Choir, Band and their JROTC Color Guard participating.
Pictures posted by Commander Francisco Barragan
Image:
February 13th, 2010 - TET Festival UMAVA participated on the
Vietnamese TET Parade at the invitation of CA State Senator Lou Correa.
Cpl
Alex Madrigal (US flag); and Dr.
Alfonso Alvarez and his daughter Emily & my nephew Eric visiting from San Jose (carrying the UMAVA
banner).
Also participating for the day Alex Diaz (photographer), Maria S. & Rufino Martinez (UMAVA members); Zeke Hernandez (UMAVA member & President of LULAC); Bob Mcdonald, Chairman of Black Chamber of Commerce (dressed I
believe in "Buffalo Soldier" uniform), and Max
Madrid and Arthur Sandoval from
Senator Correa's office.Also joining
for the day, Rocky Chavez (Col Ret. USMC), Undersecretary for CA Dept of VA.
We met several dignitaries,
and we had the opportunity to share UMAVA's Flyer.
Funny story (I think!) - we
were originally going to join Senator Correa's group; but then we were placed
with Vets First group;
However, the organizers told
Vets First to move up (they were in pick-up trucks), and they took off and left
us there:Alex Madrigal; Dr. Alfonso Alvarez
and daughter Emily, my nephew Eric and myself.We marched the whole parade (next to a dragon/musical group), but when
we came by the reviewing stand, the "judges"/Announcers looked at us - ALL
FIVE OF US . . . and were wondering who we were, because we did not have a number
because we got separated . . .
I "broke ranks" walked over
to the podium told them we were out of sequence, reached into my jacket's
pocket and gave them our UMAVA flyer.They read out for the benefit of the crowd . . . UMAVA and our Motto, in
English and in Vietnamese . . . what a save!!!!
December 10th, 2009 - Visiting a Wounded Marine for Christmas We met at CA Senator Lou Correa's office to carpool to Camp Pendleton to visit Cpl Marcus Gill, wounded US Marine, and to take a few small Christmas gifts for him and his family as a small token of our community's appreciation, and to let Cpl Gill know that he and his youn g family are on our thoughts and prayers as he recovers from his IED injuries. Sadly, his Marine buddy LCpl Justin Swanson lost his life in Afghanistan in this same attack.
Carpooling that day:
Commander Francisco Barragan
Max Madrid, US Navy (retired), Special Assistant to Senator Correa
Alex Diaz, OIF veteran and AGIF Chaplain
Maria T Solis, USAF (retired) and UMAVA member
Pictures
provided by Francisco Barragan
from L: Max Madrid; Maria T Solis; and Commander Francisco Barragan
November 11th, 2009 - Veterans Day Celebration Staff Sgt Manuel Diaz WWII Vet Recognized with a Bronze Star after over 50 years SSgt Diaz pictured with his family Los Alamitos Joint Training Base SSgt Diaz shared that from his unit (142nd Infantry Regiment; 36th Infantry Division) there were 3 Medal of Honor Recipients; however, per Francisco Barragan's research 4 were identified as follows: Bernard P. Bell; Edward C. Dahlgren; Emile R. Deleau Jr; and Silvestre S. Herrera.
Maj Gen. Harrel, US Rep Dana Rohrabacher from 46th Cong. District, and other dignitaries and guest were in attendance.
UMAVA members participating. Antonio & Elsie Mendez Francisco Barragan Fred Bella Jose Moreno Sam Trevino & Christene Carpenter
Pictures provided by Francisco Barragan
Image:
November 10th, 2009 - "OC Veterans Appreciation Week" UMAVA was recognized during Orange County's "Veterans Appreciation Week Nov. 9th - Nov. 13th". Recognition was issued by Janet Nguyen, OC Board of Supervisor (First District) Accepting on behalf of UMAVA, Fred Bella, Founder and Commander.
Other UMAVA Board members participating: Cecilia Aguinaga Christene Carpenter Sam Trevino
Picture provided by Cecilia Aguinaga.
BOS Janet Nguyen (1st District) - Fred Bella 2nd from Left
November 7th, 2009 - Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez Key-Note Speaker at "13th Annual Veterans Day Celebration - a Tribute to Mexican-American Veterans" at CSU-Fullerton. The families of Medal of Honor recipients; and the families of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service and devotion to country were present to honor the memory and service of their loved ones. Judge Fred Aguirre - President of Latino Advocates for Education together with his wife Linda Aguirre were the event sponsors. Welcoming Remarks by Dr. Milton Gordon, President of CSUF-event host. Gen Sanchez was recognized on behalf of US Rep Loretta Sanchez; and State Senator Lou Correa. Mexican Consul Carlos Rodriguez y Quezada was also present to pay tribute to those Hispanic/Mexican Americans who serve in the US Armed Forces.
UMAVA
Board and Members attended along with
other civic/veteran organizations leaders.
UMAVA members present:
Antonio & Elsie Mendez
Dr. Alfonso Alvarez, with his daughter Emily (handing out free patriotic pins)
Eusebio Perez, Ray Ybarra
Frank and Alice Ramirez
Francisco J. Barragan CPA, CIA
Fred Bella (UMAVA Founder)
Robert L. Colin
Maria T. S. Martinez; and her husband Rufino (both Veterans)
Zeke Hernandez
Antonio Mendez and Eusebio Perez, looked sharp wearing part of their WWII Uniform.
Ron Berenshot, Bagpipes - played "Amazing Grace" as a Tribute to Fallen Heroes.
And JROTC students from Santa Ana and Magnolia High Schools were also present to pay honor to the Veterans; in addition to CSUF ROTC Color Guard.
CSUF Marketing/PR students volunteering with UMAVA in compiling the profiles of UMAVA Veterans were also present (Lous Ortiz Jr; Veronica Pulcini; and Jessica Runtz; Lady Mcdesmond is also part of this team).
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
November 5th, 2009 - Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez Visited Santa Ana with his beautiful wife and Teacher - Maria Elena Lt. General Sanchez was the Guest of Honor and received Special Recognition for his long distinguished career and service to country. UMAVA Board and Members attended a Private reception/book signing, along with other civic/veteran organizations leaders at RSCCD. Judge Fred Aguirre - President of Latino Advocates for Education was the sponsor. Gen Sanchez was recognized by Councilmembers Michelle Martinez; and Claudia Alvarez, Mayor Pro Tem. Mexican Consul Carlos Rodriguez y Quezada; & Jess Araujo (Attorney & US Marines Veteran) were also present. US Marines were presented with an award for their "Toys for Tots" campaign. UMAVA members present:
Antonio & Elsie Mendez
Dr. Alfonso Alvarez
Eusebio Perez, Ray Ybarra
Frank and Alice Ramirez
Francisco J. Barragan CPA, CIA
Leonor Barajas; & Robert L. Colin
Cecilia Aguinaga
Maria T. S. Martinez
Zeke Hernandez
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
October 27, 2009 - State Senator Lou Correa
Paul Rodriguez (Comedian and Actor) as Key-Note Speaker.
UMAVA participated as Honored Guests of Senator Correa, in this event along with other
Veterans organizations and Civic Leaders, at Delhi Senior Center (505 East Central Avenue, East Santa Ana).
October 16, 2009 - OC Veterans Townhall with State
Senator Lou Correa, Vice-Chair of Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and UMAVA Honorary Board Member; &
Bobby McDonald, Chair of Veterans Affairs Committee for California Community College Board of Governors.
UMAVA Participated in this event along with other
Veterans organizations and Civic Leaders.
Senator Correa recognized the Veterans present, giving
special recognition to our UMAVA WWII Veterans; and to Carlos Palomino, former
World Boxing Champion and US Army Veteran.
Francisco Barragan spoke on behalf of Veterans issues,
and the need for greater awareness and funding for the following:
2.Treatment.
Greater recognition, awareness and funding support for the proper diagnosis,
identification and treatment of PTSD or other
physical injuries.
3.Workforce support. Greater
facilitation and assistance for Returning Veterans to help them reintegrate
into the workforce.
For example, many jobs require background checks and the completion of Live Scan for fingerprints etc.
Since Veterans have had background checks, either a sharing of the Live Scan,
background checks, or conducting the Live Scan for Free for Veterans.
4.Veterans
Court. Support for greater expansion of Veterans
Courts. Veterans Court helps handle "infractions" by Veterans
in a manner that decriminalizes their actions if it can be proven these are as
a result of their TBI or PTSD.
Since Veterans may at times turn to negative coping mechanisms, i.e. alcohol
etc. and it can have negative consequences, then the Veterans Court can
more appropriately deal with more proper treatment or coping mechanisms to
assist in the recovery.
5.Education.
·Support
for guaranteeing spots in the colleges and
universities for Veterans, or other vocational assistance.
·Financial.
Smoother financial process so that there are no delays in the Veterans
receiving their benefits. And also consideration of having TUITION or other FEES waived or, very
Nominal charges.
6.Internet Access:Funding for internet access for
Veterans.Many Veterans are older or
disabled with physical mobility issues or lack of readily accessible
transportation.Many are also not
internet savvy.However, many benefits
exist online.So state should consider
annual stipends for internet access and workshops tailored towards these so
that veterans can understand or access their services from home.
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
August 15th, 2009 - "Veterans Court Presentation" Ms. Laura Morfin
Ms. Laura Morfin presented to UMAVA members on OC's Veterans Court.
Ms. Morfin passion for assisting Veterans was clearly demonstrated.
UMAVA members received very useful info; and the members were grateful to Ms. Morfin.
Ms. Morfin was presented with an UMAVA Logo.
Additionally, Ray Ybarra was also presented with a framed UMAVA logo for his volunteer work with Relay-for-Life.
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
Powerpoint Presentation by Ms. Laura Morfin: Please click on image below.
August 14th, 2009 - "National Night-Out":
UMAVA
had a table manned by Cecilia Aguinaga
and Francisco Barragan at El
Salvador Park in Santa Ana. Present were:
State Senator Lou Correa (UMAVA Honorary Member) with his daughter Emilia;
Paul Walters, Chief of Police.
Joe
Yanez-UMAVA member; and husband to Nelida Yanez-Former UMAVA Commander.
Roman Reyna, SAUSD School Board member.
And many of our fine SAPD Officers, including (K-9: REX)
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
July 25th, 2009 - Veterans Fair:
UMAVA participated at the Veterans Fair sponsored by the Elks Lodge and US Rep. Loretta Sanchez (47 District), at 11551 Trask in Garden Grove.
We had a fun, and educational day. Many other organizations focused on serving and recognizing the American Veteran also participated.
UMAVA members and spouses present:
Fred Bella, Connie Bella, Antonio Mendez, Elsie Mendez, Eusebio Perez, Ray Ibarra, and Francisco Barragan.
We are grateful to US Rep Loretta Sanchez and the Elks Lodge leaders, trustees and volunteers for their hospitality and the awesome hamburgers and cheese burgers, that were served with a great smile!!!
Pictures below provided by Francisco Barragan.
Image:
October, 2007 - Celebrating Mendez vs Westminster Proclamation:
UMAVA members pictured Leonor Barajas USAF; Napoleon Barajas, US-Army (RIP); and Mimi Lozano, Publiser of Somos Primos.
The Westminster LULAC Council #3017 members and SHHAR, requested the
proclamation:
front row, from left Nora Barajas, Westminster City Commissioner on Aging,
Gonzalo Mendez, Jr. Lupe Fisher, Westminster City Cultural Arts
Commissioner
Mimi Lozano. Back row, Bea Dever, Napoleon Barajas.
Picture below appeared in Somos Primos, October 2007 issue.
Posted by Commander Francisco J. Barragan
Celebrating Mendez Vs Westminster Proclamation
January, 2007 - UMAVA General Meeting at Kidworks:
UMAVA's early days. Meeting at Kidworks in Santa Ana.
UMAVA members.
Back row from Left: Nick
Sandoval,Stuart Dickinson, Robert Colin, Sal Lujan, Frank Ramirez, Ralph
Cornejo.
Front row from Right: Mimi Lozano, Isidro
Gauna, Nelida Yanez, Human Relation Commissioner, Cecilia Aguinaga, Council
Member David Benavidez, and Harvey Reyes.
(Not
pictured: Ralph Colin, Ben De Leon,
Henry Hernandez, Alfonso Alvarez, Frank Luna, and Fred Bella.)
Pictures below appeared in Somos Primos, April 2007 issue.
Posted by Commander Francisco J. Barragan
Early UMAVA Days - at Kidworks
UMAVA is a registered Not-for-Profit. 501 c(19) - special type of military veterans organization Donations are Tax Deductible
