Latino Valor Series Honors Vietnam War Hero Jorge Otero Barreto

Herndon, VA — The latest episode of the Latino Valor video series honors Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto, one of the most highly decorated soldiers of the Vietnam War and a proud son of Puerto Rico whose courage under fire became legendary.

Born in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Otero Barreto joined the United States Army in 1959 and went on to serve five tours in Vietnam. Over the course of more than 200 combat missions, he repeatedly placed himself in harm’s way to protect his fellow soldiers, earning a reputation for extraordinary bravery and selfless leadership.

During his military career, Otero Barreto earned 38 military decorations, including multiple Silver Stars, Bronze Stars for Valor, Purple Hearts, and Air Medals. Wounded five times in combat, he continued to return to duty, embodying the Army’s highest ideals of service and sacrifice.

The newest Latino Valor episode tells the story of a soldier whose actions saved countless lives and whose humility never matched the magnitude of his accomplishments. Beyond his battlefield heroics, the video highlights his lifelong commitment to veterans and his enduring legacy as one of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated military heroes.

The episode also acknowledges the ongoing efforts by veterans organizations, civic leaders, and supporters who have advocated for a review of Otero Barreto’s record for possible consideration of the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for valor.

“Jorge Otero Barreto’s story is one of extraordinary courage, unwavering devotion to his fellow soldiers, and a lifetime of service,” said Danny Vargas, ALVA Chairman/CEO. “His legacy reminds us of the profound contributions that Latino Americans have made in defense of our nation.”

The Latino Valor series is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Latino service members whose courage, sacrifice, and leadership have helped shape American military history.

The episode honoring Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto is now available for viewing at the following link: – CLICK HERE

About Latino Valor
Latino Valor is a storytelling video series dedicated to honoring the courage, sacrifice, and service of Latino Americans in the United States Armed Forces, preserving their legacy for future generations and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.

ALVA Membership is free to all veterans (including guard and reserves), active-duty personnel, and their families, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, national origin, or disability status. We recognize that military service is not an individual exercise, but rather a family endeavor. Visit the website to join and become a member of ALVA today.

About American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA):
The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) is a registered 501c3 non-profit that exists to help American Latino veterans thrive after their military service, access the benefits they have earned, and enhance recognition of Latino contributions to our nation’s defense throughout its history. ALVA membership is free to all veterans, active duty, guard, reserves, and family members, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, national origin, or disability status. For more information on ALVA visit https://www.alvavets.org or follow us on our social media channels @alvavets.