Hispanic history

Photo By Daniel Malta | Cpl. Vicente Martinez, Marine Attack Squadron 311 power line mechanic, is from Cameron, Texas, a small town with a little more than 8,000 inhabitants. His parents, who were originally illegal immigrants, came to this country to make something of themselves through hard work and dedication, which they have instilled in their son.  

YUMA, AZ, UNITED STATES

10.06.2011

Story by Sgt. Daniel Malta    

Marine Corps Air Station Yuma

YUMA, Ariz. - Understanding your past and respecting your ancestors is important; and one Mexican American here on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma describes this as being an integral part to Hispanic culture.

Cpl. Vicente Martinez, Marine Attack Squadron 311 power line mechanic, is from Cameron, Texas, a small town with a little more than 8,000 inhabitants.

His parents, who were originally illegal immigrants, came to this country to make something of themselves through hard work and dedication, which they have instilled in their son.

“Any time my father could, he would take me to work along side him,” said Martinez. “ And my mother would always be teaching me how to cook and clean.”

He had two brothers who he was always fighting with and one sister they all protected.

“That was our way of showing each other love,” said Martinez. “ It was the simplest form of communication.”

Martinez also held a deep respect for the elders in the family, which he said is synonymous with most Hispanic families.

“We take care of our elders,” said Martinez. “My grandma gives guidance to the whole family and pulls us all together.”

Traditions house the identity of many cultures and are something passed down generation to generation.

“It justifies your culture, it creates an active image of where you came from,” said Martinez.

These days immigration is a big issue, especially down closer to the border.

“I believe immigration can be good as long as people have good intentions,” said Martinez. “There are some who come over and do nothing but take up space and then there’s others who make a point to push themselves.”

Martinez believes it is important for immigrants to adapt to life here in America.

“They came here to get away from Mexico, so it makes no sense to come here and hold on to those same ways of living,” said Martinez.

Diversity is a common theme in American culture, which Martinez says is important to the Marine Corps, helping its image as well as unit cohesion.

“Different cultures are interesting, and the more questions we can ask each other the more we’ll be able to respect and understand,” said Martinez.

Even though he is not a first generation Mexican, Martinez is proud of his history and culture and encourages immigrants to push themselves and contribute to society.

According to President Barrack Obama, “Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their community. They are doctors and lawyers, activists and educators, entrepreneurs and public servants, and brave service members who defend our way of life at home and abroad.”

• Date Taken: 10.06.2011
• Date Posted: 12.19.2011 18:25
• Story ID: 81584
• Location: YUMA, AZ, US