DVIDS – News – Hispanic Heritage Month at NSA Souda Bay

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Sept 28, 2023) Members and personnel of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay held a National Hispanic Heritage Month commemoration at The Anchor Sept. 28, 2023.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a recognized cultural observance from September 15 to October 15 each year that provides an opportunity to showcase and honor the many contributions of Hispanic Americans to the Department of Defense and the nation.

The NSA Souda Bay Multicultural Committee coordinated the event, during which Sailors of Hispanic descent discussed their cultural heritage.
Command Chief Rafael P. Barney, NSA Souda Bay, recalled the accomplishments of his fellow Hispanic Americans, including Frank Rubio, who broke the record for the longest continuous spaceflight by an American, and General Angela Salinas , first Hispanic woman to become a Marine. Corps general.

“Why are we writing history?” Barney posed in front of the audience, made up mainly of sailors. “Because of the hard work our parents and grandparents put in to provide better opportunities for their offspring. This circle of life continues.

Chief Culinary Specialist Samuel Miro, NSA Souda Bay, of Miami, Florida, discussed the importance of his Cuban heritage.

“Being a Cuban Hispanic is a rich tapestry of culture, history and identity,” Miro said. “Rooted in the vibrant Caribbean island of Cuba, the heritage encompasses a fusion of Spanish, African and indigenous influences.”

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Wesley J. Riggs, NSA Souda Bay, spoke about his upbringing as a Mexican American.

“Being Mexican-American is a unique and multi-layered identity that carries a rich mix of cultures, histories and experiences,” Riggs said.

“It is an identity that bridges two worlds, offering both challenges and opportunities. At its core, being Mexican-American is a celebration of cultural diversity.

Logistics Specialist 1st Class Luis Murguia, NSA Souda Bay, shared his personal experience migrating from Lima, Peru, and his decision to enlist.
“I had the opportunity to immigrate to the United States about 17 years ago,” Murguia said. “I was working in New York, working my way through restaurants, when I decided to join the US Navy for a better future and better opportunities. The United States Navy has made me a stronger and better person.

The presentation ended with a cake cutting and the Minoan Taverna prepared a special menu in honor of this celebration.

NSA Souda Bay is a shore-based operational installation that enables and supports U.S., allied, coalition, and partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. For more information, visit us at www.cnic.navy.mil/SoudaBay or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NSASoudaBay.