Polly's Pies Fundraising on behalf of Antonio Méndez, WW II combat veteran- US Army (Silver Star recipient): Antonio Méndez served in the 9th Infantry Division; fought in the Battle of the Bulge; Shot down a German plane with his machine gun; helped liberate Nazi Holocaust death camp in Nordhausen Germany; and was recognized by the Belgian government with a special military recogntion the Belgian Fourragère.
Antonio will turn 92 years old on April 1st, 2014.
Polly's Pies (Santa Ana, CA) will DONATE 20% of proceeds for people who DINE-IN at Polly's Pies on TUESDAY April 1st from 5:30pm - 8:30pm. Must present this Flyer.
Veterans Business Workshop and Networking Mixer Attended CA Senator Lou Correa's (past Chairman of Veterans Affairs Committee for CA State Senate) Veterans Business Workshop and Networking Mixer, on Thursday 3/20/2014, 5pm-8:30pm. Great to see leaders of other veterans organizations, our veterans and supporters. posted by UMAVA Commander Francisco J. Barragan March 20, 2014.
Antonio Méndez, WW II combat veteran- US Army (Silver Star recipient): Antonio Méndez served in the 9th Infantry Division; fought in the Battle of the Bulge; Shot down a German plane with his machine gun; helped liberate Nazi Holocaust death camp in Nordhausen Germany; and was recognized by the Belgian government with a special military recogntion the Belgian Fourragère.
ORAL History - interviewed by Martin S. Madert, of "Witness to History" a not-for-profit, while 10 UMAVA members were at the Evergreen Aviation Space Museum speaking to thousands of students from 18 different highs school, in Oregon.
Please share with other veterans and students with an interest for history and eye-witness testimony. See the 3-part interview and share.
Frank Ramírez, Korea combat medic- US Army (Silver Star recipient): Frank Ramírez served in the 2nd Infantry Division ("the Indian Head" division); became a combat medic because of war-time necessity; served in the battle of Heartbreak Ridge and others.
ORAL History - interviewed by Martin S. Madert, of "Witness to History" a not-for-profit, while 10 UMAVA members were at the Evergreen Aviation Space Museum speaking to thousands of students from 18 different highs school, in Oregon.
Please share with other veterans and students with an interest for history and eye-witness testimony. See the 2-part interview and share.
Reception - Nelida Yañez, Trustee RSCCD: Nelida Yañey, Trustee for Rancho Santiago Community College District, US Army Veteran and Past UMAVA Commander will be hosting a reception. Where: Avocado Grill 2525 N. Grand Ave, Santa Ana, CA. When: October 24, 2013 / 5:30pm-7:30pm. Appetizers & Refreshments will be offered. Please RSVP to :
World War II pilot, Roberto Ruiz, lived through 35 missions: Roberto Ruiz of Dana Point, the son of Mexican immigrants, flew B-24 bombers over Europe, as an Army Air Force pilot.
Roberto Ruiz, WWII, B-24 Liberator Bomber Pilot (pic by Leonard Ortiz OCR)
Three brothers served in WWII: Hispanic Heritage Month: Erica L. Ruedas writes of two great-uncles who returned from World War II, while a third was killed in combat.
Victor - the eldest: A 2nd Lieutenant in the 96th Infantry Division and served in the Leyte, Philippine Island Campaign and in Okinawa, where he was killed in a gallant attempt to rescue three wounded soldiers from another company.
John- the second oldest: was next to enter the service, also in 1943, as a Marine with the 5th Marine Division. He fought in the battle of Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima, where he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart.
Frank -followed in 1944 and served in the Navy with the occupation forces in Japan, shortly after the atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Alex, the youngest: was the last to serve, missing World War II by six years when he entered the army in 1951. He spent two years in the Army during the Korean War, and did his training at Fort Ord in Monterey.
Victor Armendariz entered the service in 1943. He attended officers' training and became a second lieutenant. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star, and is buried at the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii
TV AZTECA Channel 54 with Patricia Arbulú: Antonio Méndez, WWII & Sal Lujan, Korea Combat veterans and Commander Francisco J. Barragán, shared their military experiences and reflections on this well known program "Entre Nos" conducted in Spanish on Monday April 8, 2013 from 10am-11am.
from Left: Francisco J. Barragán; Antonio Méndez, Patricia Arbulú; Sal Lujan
New Santa Ana College Veterans Upward Bound Program: Academic preparation and career guidance. Services included are:
Basic Skills Training (i.e. Computer Skills, Resume Development etc
Personal & Professional Development Workshops
Access to Santa Ana College Veteran's Resource Center
Financial Aid Counseling (including guidance on GI Bill and other benefits)
Academic Planning and Counseling
Course Advisement
Career Exploration & Guidance
College and University Campus Tours
Psychological and Mental Health Referrals
...and much more.
Also able to take part in the Veteran’s Summer Bridge to College Program. Veterans who participate in the bridge program will go through a four week “academic boot camp” where you will receive instruction in areas you may need to strengthen; i.e. Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and or Social Sciences. This accelerated program is designed to prepare veterans for the college placement exam and enrollment into the college or university of your choice. Services also included over the summer will be:
Group and Individual Tutoring
Veteran to Veteran Mentoring
ACT / SAT and or GED Preparation (For diploma or GED completion)
If you are interested in learning more about the program and to see if you are eligible please visit our website (by clicking here) and or contact us at 714.564.6288 or by email at veteransub@sac.edu. You can also download and complete our application (by clicking here) and return it to our office with the supporting documentation. Please act fast, as space will be limited.
Veterans Oral History Program at Rancho Cucamonga HS: Richard Garza, US Army, Vietnam Combat veteran and others, shared their stories at King High Schoo, in Riverside.
There will also be an Annual Rancho Cucamonga High School Remembers, Veterans Oral History Program.
This will take place on May 1st, 2013 at 9am, at 11801 Lark Drive Rancho Cucamonga, CA. To participate please Contact:
Courage To Remember (Holocaust Remembrance in Santa Ana): 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 at several high schools and at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum (founded in the memory of Captain Michael King Smith); and at community forums during Monday November 5 through Friday November 9th.
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
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 highest ranking Mexican-American General and others
UMAVA & Santa Ana High School NJROTC Color Guard at the 11th Annual GAWAD Awards in Hollywood:
UMAVA / SAHS NJROTC Color Guard will again be Presenting the Colors at the 11th Annual GAWAD Amerika Awards, with the Filipino-American community at the Celebrity Centre International, Hollywood, CA. There are many distinguished guests and dignitaries.
Last year Miss Philippines a runner-up in the Miss Universe 2011 was in attendance. This year Manny Pacquiao will be a guest VIP.
Invocation/Prayer - Francisco B. Parras Jr, UMAVA Chaplain & ordained pastor.
Pledge of Allegiance, playing the Bugle & introducing the singer for the Star Spangled Banner - Commander Francisco Barragán.
Presenting the Colors - Santa Ana High School NJROTC Color Guard.
UMAVA's key liasion for both years has been Chaplain Parras Jr.
UMAVA Color Guard at Big Brothers Big Sisters of OC (BBBS-OC) fundraiser Annual Gala Dinner:
Commander Barragán has been a Big Brother for 2 Little Brothers, has been an Advisory Board member for BBBS-OC, and has been a key planner for Operation Military Kids (OMK) - during the last 4 years. BBBS-OC received a grant to service kids of deployed parents aged 9 - 16 yrs old.
UMAVA recognized Dick Butkus-NFL HOF 79, Dr Larry Santora and Rina Santora RN for providing Free Heart for Veterans since Fall 2009:
On behalf of UMAVA Commander Barragán recognized: Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame 1979 for his significant financial contributions to provide Free Heart Scans for Veterans; and for Dick Butkus's own military service in the CA Army National Guard. Dr Larry Santora and Rina Santora RN.
1st Enterprise Bank Joins Habitat for Humanity & CalVet to Build Habitat for Heroes Homes for Veterans:
Marco Arcadia, UMAVA Vice-Commander and Vice-President with 1st Enterprise Bank proudly shared his company's collaboration to build dignified and affordable homes for low-income veterans.
UMAVA Resolution Advocating for Veterans Cemetery in OC:
UMAVA Membership present voted unanimously (100%) in support of a Resolution advocating for a feasibility study to determine need for a National Veterans Cemetery in OC, which is severely needed, benefitting the families of our Fallen Heroes.
Presentation to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (US-CIS/DHS), in Santa Ana as part of US Hispanic Heritage Month:
As part of US Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 - Oct 15), US-CIS/DHS holds an annual celebration in Santa Ana, CA.
Commander Barragán was again invited to speak and present this year at US-CIS.
Reading of Presidential Proclamation by Mr. David Lester, Field Office Director.
Commander Barragán spoke on Sacrifice and Devotion to the cause of Freedom; Leadership; Keeping-Faith in our coutry and our values even in the most trying of circumstances; and Hope by using examples of military service and other community leaders.
The presentation's title, "Mamá Yo siento que No Regreso" - (Mom I feel I will not be Coming Back) - perhaps the words or sentiment of millions of our troops as they head of to war, and yet even in the face of uncertainty and fear, their commitment to the cause of freedom never wavered.
Commander Barragán was the guest of Mr. David Lester, Field Office Director; and Mr. Cesar Baldemor, US-CIS Immigration Services Officer.
UMAVA participates in "Annual Olive Street Reunion - Honoring Westminster Heroes":
Hon. Margie Rice, Mayor of Westminster
UMAVA's Color Guard & members participating, including:
Francisco J. Barragán, Commander
Francisco B. Parras, Jr - Chaplain
Ralph Colin, Sgt-at-Arms
Antonio Méndez, WWII Silver Star;
Sal Lujan, Korea War
Pastor Frank Orzio, Vietnam ("The Price of Freedom")
UMAVA presented "Appreciation Certificates" to each of the six Families of each of our Honored and Fallen Westminster Heroes; additionally, we read the names of 63 other Mexican-American veterans serving from Westminster and its Mexican-American barrios.
UMAVA recognized several leaders at its "Ben De Leon Scholarship" Fundraiser party: Key leaders recognized:
Ken Buckles, President & Founder and Malinda Buckles of "Remembering America's Heroes USA". Ken & Malinda bring hundreds of veterans from across the nation to Portland, Oregon to inspire high school students to succeed. UMAVA's members have twice been flown to Portland (April 2012 & Nov 2011 for several days) to speak to thousands of students. Five UMAVA members will again travel to Portland for to speak to thousands of students for 5 days. Ken & Malinda were hosted by UMAVA for 3 days here in Orange County.
Gus Guzman, US Marines Korea combat veteran, President & Founder of "The Path of Hope Foundation" - helping needy Children & Families for over 40 years in Orange County with support from local sponsors and volunteers.
UMAVA also received close to $1,000 in donations towards our Ben De Leon Scholarship Fund from:
Maria T. Solis, US Air Force (ret); and
Representatives from the Serafines de Orange County (Angels of Orange County) which was established in the early 1950s to fund scholarships for Latino youth by Manuel Esqueda, WWII US Navy combat veteranand four of his friends. Los Serafines was originally known as the Gemini Club and in the 1980s, the effort gained corporate sponsors and was renamed to Los Serafines.
UMAVA's Color Guard participated with "Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge": UMAVA's Color Guard "Presented the Colors" at Freedom Foundation's at Valley Forge Luncheon at the Costa Mesa Golf Course. Participating:
Commander Barragán shared UMAVA's Values & Motto, and active advocacy of our active duty troops and our veterans.
Nelida Yañez, Color Guard leader (US Army) & Past UMAVA Commander led the Color Guard in Presenting the Colors.
Francisco B. Parras Jr., UMAVA-Chaplain - led on the Prayer/Invocation.
Sgt Sal Lujan, US Army - Korea War veteran - part of Color Guard.
UMAVA donated and volunteered at "Second Annual Veterans Stand-down" to help homeless veterans in Orange County: Commander Barragán participated in the planning meetings with other leaders and veteran focused organizations, led by Veterans First of OC, which has been helping homeless veterans for over 40 years in Orange County.
This was a 3-day/2-Night event.
The goal was to process and transition homeless veterans to the various services available to them throught the various governmental and not-for-profit organizations.
This year's event was held at the Costa Mesa Reserve Center.
Last year's 2-day event was held at Santa Ana College.
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 Calix Family join us, and their talented teenage daughter sang the Star-Spangled Banner for all of us.
UMAVA recognized OC Excélsior (Spanish paper) at their 20th Anniversary in Santa Ana, CA for their support and advocacy of our Veterans and UMAVA's activities: Commander Barragán presented the "Certificate of Appreciation - Thanking and Recognizing OC Excélsior"
OC Excélsior has been informing and educating our community;
OC Excélsior has also been helping UMAVA raise greater awareness of the contribuitions and sacrifices of our active duty troops; our veterans and Our Fallen Heroes.
UMAVA Commander was the Keynote Speaker for Foster Youth from the New Alternatives Program: Commander Barragán was the Keynote Speaker for the graduating Foster Youth of New Alternatives Program of Orange County.
Guest of Irene Ascencio, program coordinator & MANA de OC member.
Commander Barragán shared with the young graduates techniques on how to overcome obstacles and ensure success relying on Personal Values & Personal Compass.
Santa Ana artist honors Santa Ana's WWII veterans: "I’m just honoring the type of men it takes to lay down everything for the benefit of the country", says Santa Ana artist Carlos Aguilar.
Residents of the Logan Street neighborhood have been bringing photos of their veterans for Aguilar to paint into the mural . . . The faces in the mural will not be fictitious soldiers; they will be the faces of real Santa Ana WWII veterans.
Sammy Montoya, who owns La Chiquita Mexican Food (906 E. Washington, Santa Ana, CA) donated the wall space and is paying Carlos Aguilar a small stipend.
UMAVA Commander was the Keynote Speaker at ITT-Tech Graduation : Commander Barragán was the Keynote Speaker at ITT Tech's Graduation of June 26, 2012, at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, La Mirada, CA.
Commander Barragán also led on the Pledge of Allegiance; and the Presenting of the Colors by the Santa Ana High School NJROTC Color Guard (commanded by Commander Tom Osseck, and Sr Chief Harry Oliver).
Guest of Mr. Fred Poblete; and Mr. Tony Ruiz (US Army)
About 1,000 guests were present including the graduates and their family and friends.
UMAVA provided "Ben De Leon Scholarship" Funds at Santa Ana High School: UMAVA was proud to provide scholarship funds at Santa Ana High School Scholarship Awards ceremony. Present: Antonio & Elsie Méndez, Dan Reyna, Ray Ybarra, and Commander Barragán who spoke on behalf of UMAVA.
UMAVA Vice-Commander competes in Ironman Triathlon and raises thousands for Wounded Warriors:
Marco Arcadia, a US Marine and UMAVA Vice-Commander trained for and competed in the "Ironman for Wounded Warriors" triathlon at St. George, UT. He exceeded his goal by raising close to $4,000 for Wounded Warriors.
We spoke to thousands of students at several high schools and at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum (founded in the memory of Captain Michael King Smith); and at community forums.
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
UMAVA Commander Performed the Invocation for the "Annual Cesar Chávez Celebration at Jerome Park in Santa Ana, CA": Commander Barragán was again invited to perform the Invocation at this year's Annual Cesar Chávez Celebration" on behalf of UMAVA.
Commander Barragán also led on the Pledge of Allegiance; and the Presenting of the Colors by the Santa Ana High School NJROTC Color Guard (commanded by Commander Tom Osseck, and Sr Chief Harry Oliver).
Radio Interview - Advocating for our Veterans at KLAA (Angels of Anaheim station):
Francisco Barragán, Commander advocated for the needs of our veterans and highlighted the unique contributions of our US military veterans. Radio interview was led by Tammy Trujillo at the Angels Stadium radio station.
UMAVA kicked-off its "Ben De Leon Scholarship Fund" Fundraiser party: UMAVA held a very successful Fundraiser/"Tardeada" fundraiser party at the American Legion for its scholarships for high school students.
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.
UMAVA Commander highlighted and advocated for homeless veterans at an Univision TV interview (in Spanish) in Santa Ana.
Commander Barragán invited Unision to perform the interview near the "Walk Honor" at Downtown Santa Ana established by Ben De Leon (RIP - April 2011), WWII US Army Veteran and former Veterans Service Officer for Orange County for 35 years.
We also invited some homeless veterans to participate in the interview, and also the faith-based group who has been feeding the homeless in downtown Santa Ana - and they also participated.
We need to collaborate and focus our efforts to help our returnig veterans as we advocate for our veterans, in particular in the areas of homelessness; job training, better healthcare assessments and services.
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
Francisco Barragan, Commander did a live interview advocating for our veterans on issues such as:
Homelessness;
Unemployment of our Veterans (e.e. 18-24 yrs old have a 27% unemployment rate), especially since they have been fighting wars for several years;
Need for greater TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury); and PTSD care;
Veterans Courts to decriminalize behavior which was as a result of military service;
Deportation of permanent immigrant military veterans, who got in trouble with the law, sometimes as a result of their military service, in spite of swearing permanent allegiance to the USA and having risked their lives or lost limbs for the USA.
Also touched on the meaning of being a Veteran...someone who gave 100% of themselves, with some paying the ultimate sacrifice.
I am grateful to Francisco "Pacorro" Mendoza, W Radio 690AM (La Voz del Pueblo) for this opportunity to share with listeners and advocate for our veterans. Interviewed on Monday November 14 at 9PM at the studio in Burbank, CA. Please see interview below (in Spanish).
"Strength & Honor, Mexican-Americans in the Vietnam War" by (LAE)
"Red Tail Captured, Red Tail Free - The Memoirs of a Tuskegee Airman and POW" by LT. Col Alexander Jefferson USAF Ret. Pioneer African-American pilots from WWII. Their motto: "Heroes in Time and Space".
In the pic from Right: Philip Coon, Bataan Death March Survivor WWII, son Mike Coon, veteran, and their grandson serving in Iraq. From a tribe in Oklahoma.
UMAVA's Color Guard participated in the 10th Annual Native Americans Veterans Association (NAVA) Veterans Appreciation weekend Gathering, and Presented the Colors for both days :
Q&A with a US Marine, "Adapting, Overcoming and Reintegrating after Combat - Traits for Success":
Miguel Vazquez, CPL. US Marines served two combat tours in Iraq. Interview by Commander Francisco J. Barragan. Interview appeared on CayPen (an on-line Entrepreneurial magazine pages 54-57 Volume 7).
We spoke at Gervais H.S. and at Reynolds H.S. as part of a "Living History" program.
Antonio Mendez, WW II - US Army and Silver Star Recipient
Frank Ramirez, Korea - US Army and Silver Star Recipient,
Ralph Colin, Vietnam - US Army and Bronze Star Recipient
Francisco J. Barragan, Commander
Also, participating Col. Alex Jefferson, 89 (Tuskegee Airman from Alabama); Philip Coon, US-Army Battan Death March survivor and his son Mike Coon (US Army Veteran) from an Oklahoma tribe, a USS Indianapolis Survivor; a Pearl Harbor Survivor; and military veterans from other tribes (Montana; and Washington ).
UMAVA members participated in Veterans Day celebration at CSUF: This was the 15th Annual Veterans Day celebration at CSU-Fullerton hosted by Judge Fred Aguirre, Latino Advocates for Education. It took place on Saturday November 5th.
CLICK HERE for OC Register story. Frank Ramirez, Korea - US Army Silver Star Recipient and his wife Alice are on the feature photograph.
USMC Cpl Alex Madrigal (provided Mr. Butkus with two small gifts - a wooden cross & "Support Our Troops" Flag.
Commander Barragan
Mr. Butkus & Dr Santora (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.
Please Click here for the article "Young Men Look at Future Pathways" at the OC Register. Commander Francisco Barragan, presented again and helped coordinate this annual event at SAC, which was chaired by Nellie Kaniski, MANA Executive Director, UMAVA Board Member, former Counselor at SAC, and who served and retired from the US Marines.
Recognition in the US Congressional Record of UMAVA member & USAF MSgt Maria T Solis-Martinez:
We are proud of Maria, and her extensive community involvement.
Additionally, previously she was named as "Women of the Year" by CA Senator Lou Correa, after I nominated her in my official capacity of UMAVA Commander.
SHARI FREIDENRICH'S SWEARING-IN CEREMONY FOR OC TREASURER/TAX COLLECTOR - INVOCATION BY COMMANDER BARRAGAN
Hon. Bill Campbell, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors presided over the ceremony, and asked for copy of invocation to add in his Newsletter.
Francisco Barragan, Commander performed the Invocation for Shari Freidenrich.
Top Elected and Appointed Orange County officials were present.
Pastor Francisco B. Paras Jr., UMAVA Chaplain was present.
UMAVA in Chicago Sun-Times paper - FREE Heart Scans for Veterans: Provided by Dr. Lawrence J. Santora, MD FACC
(distinguished OC Cardiologist) &Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame.
Commander Francisco Barragan interviewed by Mr. Sean Jensen, Reporter for Chicago Sun-Times on December 28, 2010 as part of his article on Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame.
"California Bilingual Constitution - reenactment & History comes alive at Heritage Museum of OC"
"The (day) reminds us that at one time the constitution was bilingual,
and we've always been a part of the culture," said Francisco Barragan of
the United Mexican-American Veterans Association, which works to bring
acknowledgement of the role Mexican-American and Latino veterans have
played in defending their country." quoted in OC Register article by Jessica Terrell. CLICK HERE FOR OC REGISTER Article & Pictures.
UMAVA's Honor Guard - Please click at Picture for Article and pictures
"Radio Interview at KPFK 90.7 FM by Commander Francisco Barragan- in Spanish - Veterans Day"
We
are grateful for the opportunity to talk about UMAVA's advocacy for all veterans, especially the issue of PTSD; TBI; Veterans Court; Veterans homelessness, Veteran Service Officer assistance; our Veterans Coalition; and Deportation of non-US citizen veterans.
Interview was conducted by:
Ruben Tapia, Radio Host of Enfoque Latino
Luis Alvarez, US Marine from San Diego was also on the air.
Interview arranged by Enrique Brito, "El Pintor Cosmico" from Santa Ana
Click on Picture of Commander Francisco Barragan to hear Interview - Starts at 40min but Commander at 42 minutes of 1 hour recording
California Heritage Day, "The Signing of the First Bilingual Constitution of California": Posting of Colors begins at 10am by UMAVA's Honor Guard.
A DAY-LONG CELEBRATION FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Sunday November 14, 2010 10am-4pm. Heritage Museum of OC 3101 West Harvard Street, Santa Ana, CA(714) 540-0404 Click Here for More Details posted
by Commander
Francisco Barragan November 12, 2010
14th Annual Veterans Day Celebration - Special Tribute to "Gold Star Families" of Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, at CSU - Fullerton: This event is on Saturday November and goes from 9am-3pm. Posting of Colors begins at 10am. This annual event is sponsored by Judge Fred Aguirre of Latino Advocates for Education, Inc, and CSU-Fullerton in collaboration with other veterans organizations and community leaders. Special Films will be shown starting at 12:30:
David Farragut - first admiral for US - 3mins
"Japanese Surrender on USMissouri" - 9/2/1945
"A Soldier's Vigil: Rolling Thunder" 5/31/2010 - (about 10,000 motorcyclists in DC)
"The Longoria Affair - Felix Longoria WWII veteran" refusal to
be buried because they "do not bury Mexicans" at Three Rivers Texas. LBJ buried him with honors at Arlington
National Cemetery. 1 hour.
Military Veterans and Disproportionate Asbestos Exposure, Mesothelioma Cancer & Resources: The United States Armed Forces has a long history of asbestos use.The health of military veterans from all divisions is at risk due to their service-related asbestos exposure. Please follow the link below for Resources.
Star Spangled Banner Project: Opportunity to Give your input as
to what the United States National Anthem and Flag mean to you with Aperture Films in Newport Beach, CA.
Aperture Films will
incorporate video clips of Americans sharing their thoughts about the
National Anthem edited together in a film that will play in the National
Park Service museum at Fort McHenry in Baltimore.
National Wedding Gown Give-away to Qualifying Military Brides: Bridal salons are uniting across America to donate and give
away wedding gowns to qualified military brides.
FREE Heart Scans for Veterans: Provided by Dr. Lawrence J. Santora, MD FACC
(distinguished OC Cardiologist) &Dick Butkus, NFL Hall of Fame. To qualify for the FREE Heart Scan: Must be a
military veteran, between the age of 40-60 years, and no history of
heart problems
"Radio Interview by Commander Francisco Barragan- in Spanish" at LatinoCalifornia. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase UMAVA, our values, goals, and patriotic/civic participation and collaboration with other organizations. This was the historic launch of LatinoCalifornia as a web based News Service "AKA - ChubiNews"
LatinoCalifornia's Motto: "Periodismo Alternativo con Compromiso Social" "Alternative Journalism with Social Responsibility!"
Maria Luisa Arredondo (she has done 2 articles about UMAVA and our veterans' needs in La Opinion - the largest Spanish newspaper in the US)
These high-caliber professionals have more than 30 years in print, radio, and television in both the US and Mexico They also have Jorge Luis Macias a highly regarded sports commentator.
This was my first Radio interview, so I was a little nervous. I mentioned:
Click on Picture of Commander Francisco Barragan to hear Interview
"Community Partners Championing Education" "Voluntarios comunitarios Pelean por la Educacion" Members of UMAVA have been volunteering and championing education in OC high schools through the all volunteer, Youth Motivation Task Force (YMTF); and have joined volunteers from other top companies.
Carlos
Palomino, former World Boxing Champion, US Army Vet & UMAVA Honorary
Board Member
Francisco Barragan, Commander & Former President of ALPFA-OC
Maria Solis T.Martinez, UMAVA & AGIF member. Also recognized as "Woman of the Year 2010" by State Senator Lou Correa
Cecilia Aguinaga, UMAVA
Aura McClain, President-YMTF
Ramon Diaz (AGIF/LULAC/VICS - long-term leader/volunteer with YMTF.)
Louie Olivos Jr. - Director/Playwright
Boeing
IBM
Northop Grumman
State Farm
In OC
Excelsior (in Spanish) submitted by Francisco Barragan Friday April 2, 2010
From L.: Commander Francisco Barragan; Carlos Palomino World Boxing Champ; Maria Solis-"Woman of The Year 2010"; CLICK on Picture for article in Spanish
See article in ENGLISH at right. "Community Partners Championing Education"
Translated by Francisco Barragan, Commander of UMAVA and Former President of ALPFA-OC.
At Left: Francisco Barragan, Commander; Center Carlos Palomino, surrounded by Cecilia Aguinaga, Sharon Mayer, Aura McClain; CLICk on PICTURE for ENGLISH Article
CA Senator Lou Correa Recognizes "Women Making a Difference"
I submitted the nominations for several outstanding women veterans who are making a difference and they were recognized by CA State Lou Correa as part of the "101 Women Making a Difference" on March 18th.
Maria T. Solis Martinez was selected as "The Woman of The Year 2010" by Senator Correa.
please CLICK on the PICTURE at the RIGHT for details (Maria at a recent YMTF event with Carlos Palomino, World Boxing Champ).
posted by Commander Francisco Barragan Monday March 15, 2010
Maria T. Solis Martinez "Women of the Year 2010"; and Carlos Palomino Former World Boxing Champ; CLICK ON PICTURE
USMC Cpl Madrigal Poem shared with UMAVA members "Scars & Stripes - Here is a Marine" Gulf War combat veteran
Cpl Madrigal has been UMAVA's Sgt-at-Arms & volunteers to pay tribute to our fallen at their burial ceremonies.
posted by Commander Francisco Barragan Friday February 8, 2010
click on Picture for Poem
Celebrate- March is "Women's History
Month" A special thanks to all of our Women Veterans Making a Difference In Particular our "Rosita "Riveters!
We are also grateful to CA Senator Lou Correa for recognizing our Women veterans, and their service to our community! http://newsantaana.com/2010/03/11/senator-lou-correa-honoring-101-women-making-a-difference-on-march-18/
Happy Birthday Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr. and Thank
You! (January 15th - National Holiday)
"I have been to the Mountaintop"
Part I
Part I I
"Thank your Military" Forwarded by Dan Reyna, UMAVA Board Member US Marines Vietnam Combat veteran
Check the part where the Marine in Dress Blues drops to one knee to extend his hand to the little girl!
posted by Commander Francisco Barragan Friday January 22, 2010
"Thank your Military" - click on picture for Video
"Wounds without obvious Scars" (Heridas Que No Cicatrizan) article currently in Spanish only Miguel Vazquez US Army Vietnam Combat Vet PTSD presentation to UMAVA members
La Opinion - January 21, 2010 Largest Spanish paper in US
by Maria Luisa Arredondo Posted by Francisco Barragan
click on Picture of Maria Luisa for News Article
"Promoting Contributions by Hispanic Vets" UMAVA's Values & Distinguished members Quoted or mentioned in article:
Antonio "Tony" Mendez "Honor a Quien Honor Merece" "Honoring He Who Deserves Honor"
from Left: Fred Bella, UMAVA Founder-Korea War Veteran; and Tony Mendez, W W II Hero & Silver Star Recipient
Miniondas Spanish Article - January 7, 2010 (page 3) by Francisco Barragan, Commander
"A French
Infantryman's View of American Soldiers" A tribute to American Soldiers and their warrior spirit - a must read!
Received from Mimi Lozano. Posted by Francisco J. Barragan, Commander-UMAVA 12/31/2009
"Touching Lives with Hope" "Tocando Vidas con Esperanza" Kidworks fundraiser & Toy Drive with Mike Scioscia, Angels Manager as Key-note Speaker. Commander Barragan introduced UMAVA to several participants including: Mike Scioscia, Angels Manager; Ava Steaffens-Exec Director for Kidworks, Dean Glitteson-Entrepreneur; Reuben Franco, Chairman of the Hispanic Chamber Foundation and whose father was a WWII Veteran; and Kevin Raineriwhose grandfather John was a medical Sergeant in WWII. Other grandfatherClaude was in the Navy in WWII and was part of the Sea Bee's in the South Pacific. Step-grandfather's father was General Lorenzo Rosalez, right hand man for Pancho Villa during the Mexican Revolution. Commander Barragan also delivered Toys to Kidworks in official capacity as past President of ALPFA-OC (2007-2009); and with Tony Gonzalez, President of ALPFA-OC (whose father was in US Army during Vietnam). (Association of Latino Professionals in Finance & Accounting). Commander Barragan also serves on the Advisory Board for Kidworks. Published by Miniondas (in Spanish) with collaboration with Francisco J. Barragan, Commander-UMAVA Wednesday 12/30/2009
"UMAVA Swears in New Leaders" Commander Francisco Barragan and Fred Bella, Vice-Commander are mentioned in article. Also, UMAVA's website is listed. and Commander Barragan provided responses to online comments about "hyphenated" organizations.
OC Register submitted by Ron Gonzalez Pictures provided by Commander Francisco Barragan Monday December 28, 2009
"Mendez, et al v Westminster School District of Orange County" - OC's famous Desegregation case gets its historical due - will be included in California's textbooks
The landmark 1946 case, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, by Gonzalo Mendez, Thomas Estrada, William Guzman, Frank Palomillo, and Lorenzo Ramirez, respectively sued the Westminster, Santa Ana, Garden Grove and El Modena school districts for discriminating against Mexican elementary-school students.
Thurgood Marshall who argued Brown v. Board of Education
and became the first African-American justice of the Supreme
Court - filed an amicus curiae brief on behalf of the families when the
school districts unsuccessfully appealed the case to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in 1947. That year, California Governor Earl Warren - the future chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court who presided over Brown - cited Mendez v. Westminster when he signed a law outlawing segregation at all California schools.
Click on image at right, of 2007 US Postal Service Commemorative Stamp, of 60th anniversary of the "Mendez et al" appeals court decision, for article by CRF (Community Rights Foundation)
Click on Stamp "Mendez, et al, v Westminster" for article
"LULAC National Veterans Summit" FREE Summit in Los Angeles, CA December 3rd - 5th
Job Fair
Health Fair
Business Opportunities
Info & Benefits Seminar
Educational & Training Assistance
See more details at Flyer on the right.
submitted by Francisco Barragan Monday November 23, 2009
"Mexican Born Veterans Earn US Medal of Honor" Two recipients from WWII & Two from Viet Nam published by MiniOndas in Spanish Summary at Frontpage Complete Article at page 2 English version also posted.
submitted by Francisco Barragan Thursday November 12, 2009
Staff Sgt Manuel Diaz WWII Vet Veterans Day Celebration Recognized after over 50 years with a Bronze Star Los Alamitos Joint Training Base SSgt Diaz shared that from his unit there were 3 Medal of Honor Recipients
OC Register - Jaimee L. Fletcher November 11, 2009
Senator Lou Correa's Taste of OC fundraiser was a big success!
UMAVA members felt very privileged to be Honored Guests of Senator Correa and for the special recognition that Senator Correa gave our UMAVA Veterans. Thank you Senator Correa!
See Francisco Barragan's comments. October 27, 2009
"Somos Primos - by Mimi Lozano" Mimi is a long-term UMAVA member, and she publishes "Somos Primos" which has a wide and diverse online audience.
Please see the October edition of Somos Primos, and search for the following terms: 1) "Astronaut takes rare flag" 2) "Adapting back on Earth" 3) "UMAVA" - read results of 2nd and 3rd try
NAMI OC Veterans Front Line Conference Kaiser Permanentes Sand Canyon Hospital in Irvine A collaborative effort to provide Education and Resources to Veterans and our families
Event participation by former Commander Nelida Yanez, Sal Lujan, and Francisco Barragan
Please Click here for the article, "A Day to Remember - Memorial Day" by the OC Register. Featuring Frank Ramirez, US Army - Korea Silver Star Recipient; plus Isidro "Sid" Gauna, US Marines-Vietnam.
WWII service of Henry Romo Martínez comes to life through painting, memorabilia: Artwork portrays war service of Raquel Lomeli's father (Henry Martínez, who was born in Jalisco, Mexico; enlisted in the US Army in December 8, 1942, and became a US Citizen on the ship that was taking him to war.) Please Click here for the OC Register article.
Manuel Esqueda, WWII US Navy veteran - "A Lesson in Elementary Philanthropy" from Santa Ana barrio-raised life-long community leader:
"During the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944, a Japanese plane dropped a 500-pound bomb on the carrier's flight deck. Esqueda was thrown into the ocean and clung to ship debris as the Princeton sank. "I started praying because I could see the arms and legs and heads of my buddies that had been killed," he said. "I told the man upstairs if he spared my life, I would dedicate my life to helping mankind. I've done that. I've kept my promise." When Santa Ana's newest elementary school bearing his name was opened in the fall of 2005, it was the latest mark that Manuel Esqueda left on his community. From the funding of hundreds of scholarships to donating tens of thousands of dollars worth of artwork to a local community center and spearheading literacy efforts, Esqueda's legacy echoes in Santa Ana, CA.
