Multi-National Corps Iraq Public Affairs

Courtesy Story

BAGHDAD - Approximately 200 service members and civilians gathered at the Al Faw Palace Friday night, Oct. 2, to recognize the accomplishments and successes of Hispanic Americans.

"'No dejes para manana lo que puedas hacer hoy' which means 'Don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today'" Lt. Col. America Planas, Task Force 14 Medical, Camp Cropper, told the audience.

"This popular Spanish quotation fit's this year's Hispanic Heritage Month national theme, embracing the fierce urgency of now!" Planas said.

She went on to share examples of Hispanics who have contributed to society through their resolve, determination and sense of purpose. Some of the stories she shared were Sonia Sotomayor, the third woman and first Hispanic to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, and Capt. Ivan Castro, a Soldier blinded from shrapnel wounds that became the only blind officer serving in the Special Forces.

"Persistence, determination and drive," Planas said. "Perhaps the quality that is responsible for the success of these famous Hispanics is the ability to stick with it longer than someone else."

In addition to the Planas speech the Victory Base Complex Latin Sensations and Raices Mexicanas performed a variety of contemporary and traditional dances.

"Growing up, dancing is a part of the culture," said Marine Cpl. Ticiane DeOliveira, Counter Improvised Explosive Device Operations and Integration Center, Multi-National Corps - Iraq.

DeOliveira, a member of the Latin Sensations, grew up in Brazil, where every weekend her family and friends gathered to eat and dance. One of the more common dances was the forro. She said the dance was popularized during World War II and literally means "for all."

"The Soldiers as well as the people would dance regardless of the war going on," she said. "It brought people together."

The Sensations moved smoothly from side to side in an eight-step dance called the bachata. Originating in the Dominican Republic, the dance emerged in the 60's. Poor, rural migrants cherished the dance for its original love ballads, lyrics and artistic guitar.

They also performed the Salsa, La Rueda and the Merengue. The Raices Mexicanas then performed a traditional dance called Folklorico. The men placed their black sombreros on the floor in a gesture of courtship. The women, clad in bright floral dresses and bloomers, accepted the offer after a dialogue of dance moves involving sharp footwork.

Applause and whistles filled the rotunda as the dancing and celebration drew to a close. Lt. Col. John M. Huey, 89th Military Police Brigade commander, presented certificates of achievements to all who helped pay honor to the accomplishments and culture of Hispanic Americans.

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