U.S. Army Lt. Col. Omayra Ramirez, Commander of the 101st Troop Command, Puerto Rico Army National Guard, poses with the 1st place team with the overall victors of the MWR day at Camp Santiago Joint Training Center, Salinas, Puerto Rico, 2024. The Morale, Welfare and Recreation program is crucial for enhancing Soldiers' quality of life, boosting morale and promoting overall well-being, which contributes to a more resilient force. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Eliezer Melendez)
The 101st Troop Command of the Puerto Rico Army National Guard conducts annual training 2024 at Camp Santiago Joint Training Center, Salinas, Puerto Rico and Camp Gilbert C. Grafton, North Dakota, from July 13 to 27, 2024. For two weeks, Soldiers trained on their job specialties, ensuring they can complete any mission tasked to them, and remain proficient in warrior tasks and battle drills. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Spc. Felix Ortiz)
SALINAS, Puerto Rico – The Army speaks of strength through diversity and overcoming challenges, but few examples show drive and motivation as much as this Soldier.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Héctor Ortiz Marrero, a bridge crewmember assigned to the 892nd Multi Role Bridge Company, 101st Troop Command, Puerto Rico Army National Guard has had a life of challenges. At the age of six, he was separated from his family. His mother, whom is deaf, had her ability to raise children called into question and thus removed from his home and separated from his mother, and sister, placed in the Puerto Rico Department of the Family foster care system for 11 years.
Living in 11 foster homes, being bounced from home to home across the island made it...
