veteran Archives - ALVA AMERICAN LATINO

Latest Episode of the Latino Valor Video Series Honors Medal of Honor Recipient Roy P. Benavidez in Recognition of Presidents Day

admin.alva — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:40:16 +0000

Herndon, VA — In recognition of Presidents Day, the latest episode of the Latino Valor video series has been released, honoring Master Sergeant Roy P. Benavidez, one of the most courageous soldiers in United States military history.

The episode tells the extraordinary true story of the Mexican-American Green Beret who, on May 2, 1968, voluntarily entered a deadly firefight in Vietnam to rescue a surrounded Special Forces team. Over the course of six harrowing hours, Benavidez saved the lives of multiple soldiers while sustaining more than forty wounds from bullets, shrapnel, and bayonets.

More than a decade later, in a historic White House ceremony, President Ronald Reagan awarded Benavidez the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration for valor. During the ceremony, President Reagan famously remarked that if Benavidez’s heroism were written as a movie script, it would be difficult to believe—yet every word was true.

This newest Latino Valor episode brings renewed attention to Benavidez’s life of service, resilience, and devotion to his fellow soldiers, while also highlighting the enduring importance of recognizing courage and sacrifice at the highest levels of national leadership.

“Presidents Day is a time to reflect not only on those who have led our nation, but also on the heroes whose valor they have honored,” said Danny Vargas, ALVA CEO. “Roy Benavidez’s story is a timeless reminder of duty, brotherhood, and the extraordinary courage found in ordinary Americans.”

The video is now available for public viewing – 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.

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ALVA Publishes 2025 Impact Report Highlighting National Reach, Groundbreaking Research, and Growing Impact

admin.alva — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:51:42 +0000

Washington, D.C. — The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) today released its 2025 Impact Report, detailing a year of national growth, measurable impact, and expanded advocacy on behalf of Latino veterans and their families.

The report highlights ALVA’s work across workforce development, entrepreneurship, benefits and well-being, advocacy, recognition, and research—serving a community of nearly 1.5 million Latino veterans nationwide and more than 240,000 Latinos currently serving on active duty.

Among the key highlights from 2025:

30+ expert speakers delivered nationwide, featuring topics on careers, benefits, mental health, and economic opportunity
10,000+ viewers reached through informational videos, webinars, podcasts, and Latino military history content
Release of the State of Latino Veterans 2025 Report, delivered to Congress and the Administration, offering new data-driven insights into the experiences, needs, and priorities of Latino veterans

“Latino veterans have served with honor since the founding of our nation, yet their contributions and challenges are too often overlooked,” said Danny Vargas, Chairman and CEO of ALVA. “This Impact Report reflects not only what we achieved in 2025, but why our work matters now more than ever—ensuring Latino veterans have access to opportunity, recognition, and the support they have earned.”

The State of Latino Veterans research revealed a highly educated and service-oriented population, while also documenting persistent barriers in access to benefits, economic mobility, and culturally competent care—underscoring the need for continued advocacy and policy engagement.

ALVA also expanded its storytelling and recognition efforts through the “Attention, ALVA” podcast, the “Latino Valor” video series, and ALVA Awards ceremonies held in San Diego and Washington, D.C., celebrating Latino military service from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

The full ALVA 2025 Impact Report, along with the State of Latino Veterans report and policy brief, is available at www.alvavets.org.

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ALVA Releases Landmark National Survey on Latino Veterans, Calls on Congress and Administration to Strengthen Support for Those Who Served

admin.alva — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:48:01 +0000

Washington, D.C. — The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) today released the State of Latino Veterans 2025 report, one of the most comprehensive national surveys ever conducted on the experiences, challenges, and contributions of Latino/Hispanic veterans in the United States. ALVA has formally transmitted the report — along with a focused Policy Brief for Congress — to congressional leaders, the Administration, and senior officials across the Department of Veterans Affairs.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT:
DOWNLOAD THE POLICY BRIEF:

The survey captures responses from 217 Latino veterans nationwide, representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and major eras of service. The findings highlight the enduring commitment of Latino service members, the vital role they play in America’s national defense, and the significant contributions they make to the U.S. economy as workers, leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.

“Latino veterans have served our nation proudly in every major conflict. Their experiences matter, their voices matter, and their continued success strengthens the United States,” said Danny Vargas, Chairman/CEO of ALVA. “This report provides data-driven insight into the real issues affecting Latino veterans — and clear recommendations that Congress and the Administration can act on today.”

Key findings include:

81% of respondents are enrolled in VA healthcare, with many reporting positive experiences but also frustrations with delays and complex processes.
More than half (54%) reported experiencing discrimination during their military service.
Over 57% served in a combat zone, and many expressed concerns about access to timely mental health and benefits support.
Entrepreneurship is a major strength: 27% of respondents already own a business and 35% are interested in starting one.
Housing and health challenges persist, with 10.6% of respondents reporting at least one episode of homelessness after service.
Three out of four Latino veterans would join a Latino veterans association, demonstrating the strong desire for connection, mentorship, and community.

ALVA’s accompanying policy brief outlines practical steps Congress and the Administration can take to improve outcomes for Latino veterans, including strengthening VA navigation support, streamlining benefits processes, expanding outreach to first-generation veterans, and building stronger pathways to small-business ownership and professional advancement.

“Latino veterans are an essential part of America’s military tradition and our workforce. When they thrive after service, our nation thrives,” said Vargas. “We look forward to working with Members of Congress, the VA, and the Administration to ensure that every veteran — regardless of background — has the tools, resources, and opportunities they earned in uniform.”

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American Latino Veterans Association & ALPFA DC Host Successful “Whole Veteran Wellness: Healing, Empowerment, and Progress” Event in Washington, DC

admin.alva — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 01:46:35 +0000

Washington, D.C. — The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA), in collaboration with ALPFA DC and with generous support from sponsors AT&T, PMI (Philip Morris International), JPMorgan Chase, T-Mobile, and Wells Fargo, hosted a highly successful day-long event and awards reception on November 12, 2025 at the AT&T Forum in Washington, DC. The event brought together leaders from government, business, public health, and the veteran community for a deep and solutions-driven discussion on the holistic well-being of Latino veterans.

Photos of the Panels: Click Here
Photos of the Awards: Click Here

Video of the Panels: Click Here
Video of the Awards: Click Here

Four major panel sessions anchored the afternoon:

Harm Reduction Panel: Moderated by Mazen Saleh (R Street), expert panelists Samuel Rogers (PMI), Ana Fitzgibbons (Diageo), and Alicia Denis (U.S. Secret Service) explored practical and culturally informed approaches to reducing harm related to tobacco, alcohol, and substance use.

Mental Health Panel: Moderated by Danny Vargas, panelists Victor Medina (TBI Warrior Foundation), Dr. Anna Makela, Jonathan Agudelo (U.S. DoT), and Jeanette Gilles (AWP) focused on PTSD, trauma, TBI, destigmatization, and improving access to culturally competent mental health care.

Economic Empowerment & Opportunity Panels (Parts 1 & 2): Moderated by Craig Dellorso (RSM) and Justin Velez-Hagan (NPRCC), these sessions featured speakers from the public and private sectors—including James Albino, Kevin Ward (Micron), Chibunna Chimezie (bETA), Raul Jurado (LFCA), and Anthony Hinojosa (USHCC)—discussing housing, employment, skills training, entrepreneurship, and capital access.

The evening’s ALVA Awards Reception, celebrated exceptional leaders in the Latino veteran community. Biographies of the honorees can be found HERE. Six awards were presented:

Veteran in Business Award – Honoree: Justin Velez-Hagan
Familia Award – Honoree: Marie Robles
Community Service Award – Honoree: Jeyben Castro
DC Veteran of ALPFA Award – Honoree: Eduardo Reyes Chávez
Military Service Award – Honoree: Roy Love
Role Model Award – Honoree: James Albino

“This event showcased the best of what can happen when the public, private, and nonprofit sectors come together with one shared goal—to support, empower, and honor our veteran community,” said ALVA Chair Danny Vargas. “From health and wellness to economic advancement, our community is stronger when we collaborate to ensure every veteran has the opportunity to thrive.”

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ALVA Launches New National Survey to Amplify Voices of Latino Veterans

admin.alva — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:31:59 +0000

Herndon, VA – A groundbreaking new initiative aimed at elevating the experiences of Latino and Hispanic veterans is now underway. The State of Latino Veterans Survey—launched today at [Organization Name]—seeks to gather critical insights on the military-to-civilian transition, access to VA benefits, and the challenges and opportunities facing Latino veterans across the country.

Latinos have served honorably in every U.S. conflict and continue to represent one of the fastest-growing veteran populations. Yet their unique voices are often underrepresented in data that shapes national veteran policy and services. This survey aims to close that gap.

Latino and Hispanic veterans are encouraged to participate at:
CLICK HERE TO BEGIN SURVEY

The confidential, 10-minute survey includes questions about:
• Military service history and post-service transition
• Experiences with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
• Physical and mental health challenges
• Employment, housing, financial stability, and entrepreneurship
• Interest in education, advocacy, and mentorship opportunities

Responses will inform the inaugural State of Latino Veterans Report, set for release later this year. The report will be shared with government agencies, veteran service organizations, policy leaders, and community advocates to strengthen programs and close equity gaps.

“This is more than just data—it’s about visibility, voice, and action,” said Danny Vargas, ALVA’s Chairman/CEO. “Latino veterans have earned the right to be seen, heard, valued, and supported. This survey is one step in ensuring that happens.”
Veterans, military family members, and organizations are encouraged to share the survey widely. For more information or to partner on outreach, please contact info@alvavets.org.

Please visit our website www.alvavets.org and follow us on social media @alvavets to learn more about our other programs and future events.

ALVA Membership is free to all veterans (including guard and reserves), active-duty personnel, and their families. 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 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 since before its inception. For more information on ALVA visit https://www.alvavets.org or follow us on our social media channels @alvavets.

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ALVA Celebrates Independence Day and Launches New Video Series

admin.alva — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 03:18:34 +0000

Herndon, VA – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) wishes everyone a very happy and safe Independence Day. As we share time with family and friends, and enjoy fireworks and barbecues, let us also remember those who have served and sacrificed to secure our liberties for the past 249 years. Freedom is not free. It is bought and paid for with the blood and commitment of those willing to wear our nation’s cloth.

It is fitting and appropriate that we choose this day to launch our new video series—Latino Valor. Latino Valor is a series of short videos that tell the stories of Latino and Hispanic contributions to our nation’s military and defense from the Revolutionary Way to today. Latinos have fought in every war we have ever had, and these videos will highlight the courage and patriotism of this vital community. The first episode features Spanish General Bernardo de Galvez who played a pivotal role in support the American Colonies fighting Great Britain and helped stem the advance of the British from the south, allowing General Washington to win the Revolutionary War.

Please subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch all our videos and keep and eye out for upcoming episodes of Latino Valor. Happy Fourth of July and may God bless America!

Please visit our website www.alvavets.org and follow us on social media @alvavets to learn more about our other programs and future events.

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ALVA San Diego Expo & Awards: A Great Success

admin.alva — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 02:42:26 +0000

San Diego, CA – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) held a successful expo and awards reception in the historic Liberty Station district in San Diego, California on Wednesday June 25th, 2025. This was ALVA’s first event in San Diego and it was a great success.

The event was sponsored by Wells Fargo (represented by Antonio Barbosa) and was hosted by World Wide Technology (represented by Bruce Rice) and NPower (represented by Chris Starling). The event included guest speaker Kate Monroe of VETCOMM. “We were honored to hold this important event in beautiful San Diego where so many have served in uniform and where so many veterans reside,” stated ALVA Founder/Chairman & CEO, Danny Vargas. He continued, “The panels were enlightening and valuable and the stories of the honorees were inspiring and moving. We greatly appreciate our sponsors, partners, supporters, and friends who made this event possible and those who believe in our mission to help Latino veterans thrive and recognize their indispensable contributions.”

The ALVA Award Honorees were:
– Veteran in Business Award: Jeffrey Rosales
– Community Service Award: Livier “Livy” Lazaro
– Military Service Award: Carlos Gomez Perez
– Role Model Award: Guillermo Diaz, Jr.
Profiles of the honorees can be found here: CLICK HERE FOR HONOREE PROFILES

The first panel, focused on Future Proofing Your Skills (AI and Technology Impact), was moderated by Guillermo Diaz, Jr. and the panelists were
– Bruce Rice
– Jeffrey Rosales
– Chris Starling
– Jeffrey Vargas
The second panel entitled “From Classroom to Courage to Career” was moderated by Danny Vargas and the panelists were:
– Efrain Apodaca
– Jorge E. Calixto
– Livier “Livy” Lazaro
– Rocio Perez
Profiles of the speakers can be found here: CLICK HERE FOR SPEAKER PROFILES

Photos from the events can be found here: CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS
Video from the events can be found here: CLICK HERE FOR VIDEOS

Please visit our website www.alvavets.org and follow us on social media @alvavets to learn more about our other programs and future events.

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Register Today for the 2025 ALVA San Diego Expo and Awards Reception – June 25

admin.alva — Thu, 29 May 2025 02:03:39 +0000

Please register today for the ALVA Expo and ALVA Awards Reception on June 25th in San Diego, California!

This event is exclusively sponsored by Wells Fargo.

There will be a Career Expo from 2:00pm – 5:00pm, including informative panels on careers in AI and STEM as well as entrepreneurship. (registration begins at 1:30pm).

There will be networking from 5:00pm to 6:00pm

The Awards Reception will follow from 6:00pm – 8:00pm

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR CAREER EXPO AND AWARDS RECEPTION

CLICK HERE TO VIEW HONOREES

The venue (provided by World Wide Technology and NPower) will be:

2305 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106

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ALVA Receives Community Impact Award

admin.alva — Thu, 01 May 2025 18:52:11 +0000

ALVA Receives Inaugural Community Impact Award from Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research (JBI)

Washington, D.C. – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) was honored with the Julian Bond Institute’s inaugural Community Impact Award in recognition of its outstanding commitment to empowering Latino veteran entrepreneurs and strengthening local economies through inclusive innovation and support.

Presented during a commemorative event celebrating the life and legacy of civil rights icon Julian Bond, the award highlights ALVA’s work in delivering impactful small business webinars, mentorship programs, and supplier matchmaking opportunities tailored to the needs of veteran Latino communities.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT

CLICK HERE TO WATCH A VIDEO FROM THE EVENT

“We are deeply honored to receive this award from an institution that shares our belief in community-led economic empowerment,” said Danny Vargas, ALVA Chairman/CEO. “Julian Bond’s legacy is one of justice, equality, and empowerment — and we’re proud to carry that spirit forward by supporting Latino veterans as they build generational wealth and resilient local businesses.”

Hosted at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C., the April 28th ceremony brought together grassroots leaders, academics, policymakers, and financial institutions to celebrate community innovation and highlight the importance of equity-driven financial research.

The Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research is an initiative of the The Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). JBI centers the lived experiences of diverse communities to inform financial markets and public policy. Its research priorities span six key areas: managing everyday expenses, small business capital and credit, paying for higher education, clean energy transition, housing affordability and ownership, and the responsible use of technology.

“ALVA’s hands-on work supporting veteran, Latino small business owners represents exactly the kind of community-driven leadership we believe should guide the financial systems of tomorrow,” said Mitria Spotser, President, Julian Bond Institute.

The Community Impact Award marks a new tradition for the Julian Bond Institute, recognizing organizations that make measurable, meaningful contributions to financial equity and economic opportunity across the country.

About Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research (JBI):
JBI’s mission is to conduct research that elevates the financial needs, challenges, and opportunities presented by our increasingly diverse nation to effectively design a financial market for the future.

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ALVA and AWP Announce Strategic Partnership

admin.alva — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 17:15:04 +0000

American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) and America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) Announce Strategic Partnership to Enhance Support for Latino Veterans

Herndon, VA – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) and America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) proudly announce a strategic partnership aimed at expanding and enhancing services for Latino veterans, their families, and caregivers. By working together, the two organizations will ensure that Latino veterans receive access to the necessary resources, services, and community support they need at every stage of their lives.

ALVA is dedicated to advocating for and empowering Latino veterans, ensuring they receive equitable access to benefits, healthcare, and career opportunities. AWP is a nationally recognized organization that connects local veteran-serving organizations with critical resources, partners, and services to bolster community-based support networks. Through this partnership, both organizations will collaborate to bridge gaps in service delivery and enhance outreach efforts to Latino veterans across the country.

The customized link to request these support services can be found via:
https://www.tfaforms.com/5174061

“This partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing the unique needs of Latino veterans,” said Danny Vargas, Chairman/CEO of ALVA. “By working with AWP, we can better connect our veterans and their families to the tailored resources and support they deserve.”

AWP’s President/CEO Jim Lorraine added, “America’s Warrior Partnership is committed to ensuring no veteran falls through the cracks. Our collaboration with ALVA will strengthen our ability to reach and support Latino veterans through community-driven solutions.”

The partnership will focus on several key initiatives, including:

Strengthening access to localized veteran support services tailored to Latino veterans’ needs.
Increasing awareness and utilization of existing veteran programs through outreach and education.
Facilitating collaboration between ALVA, AWP, and community-based veteran organizations nationwide.

Together, ALVA and AWP are committed to ensuring Latino veterans receive the recognition, services, and support they have earned through their service to the nation.

Please visit our website www.alvavets.org and follow us on social media @alvavets to learn more about our other programs and future events.

About America’s Warrior Partnership:
America’s Warrior Partnership is a tax-exempt 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with communities to prevent veteran suicide. They connect local veteran-serving organizations with the appropriate resources, services, and partners to support veterans, their families, and caregivers at every stage of life. Their goal is to improve veterans’ quality of life and end veteran suicide by empowering local communities to serve them proactively and holistically before a crisis occurs. Learn more at www.americaswarriorpartnership.or g or @AWPartnership.

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