On the evening of April 5th, the Samuel Proctor Oral History Program, represented by Sonia San Juan, Antonio Sajid Lopez, and Deborah Hendrix, proudly presented “From Service to Story: Chronicles of Hispanic Veterans” at the Centro Asturiano in Tampa. This significant event, supported by the Honorary Consulate of Spain, marked the unveiling of a documentary that encapsulates the profound research conducted by Sonia under Antonio Sajid Lopez’s guidance. The film, now a part of The Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress, features six compelling interviews with Hispanic veterans, preserving their invaluable narratives for posterity.
The presentation was enriched by the participation of Mrs. Purificacion Garcia via Zoom from Miami. One of the narrators featured in the documentary, Garcia engaged in a fascinating discussion about women’s roles in the military and the contributions of Hispanic immigrants. Another distinguished guest, Judge Emiliano Jose (E.J.) Salcines, shared insights into the lives of the Vila brothers from Tampa, a family with a storied history of military service. Judge Salcines, a respected figure with a notable career in law and public service, has made significant contributions to the legal field and community outreach, reflecting the documentary’s spirit of honoring Hispanic veterans’ service and sacrifice.
This project not only pays tribute to the countless Hispanic veterans who have served the United States with distinction but also serves as a personal homage to Sonia’s husband, Juan José San Juan Pereira, who devoted over 30 years to the U.S. Navy. Their stories, emblematic of the courage and dedication that define our nation’s military personnel, are a vital part of our collective heritage.
“From Service to Story: Chronicles of Hispanic Veterans” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hispanic veterans, bridging history with the present and future, ensuring that their contributions are forever recognized and celebrated within our national identity.