July 2022 Message

Being an ally to underrepresented, marginalized, or underprivileged people is challenging and demanding. It begins with engaging in self-work to understand the areas of privilege and particular elements that create our persona. Standing by those targeted by overt or covert forms of discrimination requires courage, discipline, and integrity.

Two of our sibling affinity organizations, the Sea Services Leadership Association (SSLA) and the National Naval Officers Association (NNOA), held yearly symposiums this month. These organizations promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the military, encourage mentoring and coaching, address issues of relevance among underrepresented groups, and invite military leaders to challenge the audience with their uplifting messages.

Celebrating with SSLA and NNOA this month is amplified by the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) Act and the 50th anniversary of the appointment of Rear Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr., the first African American to reach the flag rank in the U.S. Navy. These historical events are remarkable examples of the journey of inclusion and equity that brought diversity to our armed forces.

WAVES provided much-needed flexibility, creativity, and abilities to our Navy during World War II. Almost 100,000 females joined the enlisted and officer ranks and provided coverage in different areas around the Fleet. This temporary program became a permanent solution, providing new perspectives and optimal support during crucial times in our nation’s history. The women who served in the WAVES program paved the way for the female sailors of today and their ability to participate in all operational environments.

World War II U.S. NAVY WAVES Volunteers Recruitment Film

(Center) Receives the congratulations of other officers, following the ceremony marking his promotion to flag rank, on board USS Jouett (DLG-29) at San Diego, California, 2 June 1971. Prior to his promotion to Rear Admiral, Captain Gravely was Jouett's Commanding Officer. U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph. — Rear Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., USN (Center) Receives the congratulations of other officers, following the ceremony marking his promotion to flag rank, on board USS Jouett (DLG-29) at San Diego, California, 2 June 1971. Prior to his promotion to Rear Admiral, Captain Gravely was Jouett’s Commanding Officer. U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph.

Vice Adm. Gravely transitioned from Seaman to Admiral during decades of great turmoil. He became the first U.S. Navy African American to reach the ranks of commander, captain, rear admiral, and vice admiral. This Virginian, who served for 38 years, was a committed trailblazer and leader who made the best out of each opportunity that came his way. His KSA in communications kept expanding through the decades, even after he retired from active duty.

This month we celebrate with our SSLA and NNOA sisters and brothers as we renew our commitment to walking side by side with them. May the valuable example of the WAVES and leaders like Vice Adm. Gravely energize us to be allies to other underrepresented groups. After all, en familia, we suffer with those who suffer and celebrate with those who celebrate (see 1 Cor 12:26).

Happy 232nd Birthday, US Coast Guard!

We wish all our Coast Guard brothers and sisters a happy 232nd birthday! The article below was taken from GoCoastGuard.com, and the video from Channel 10 Tampa Bay.

Semper Paratus!

The Coast Guard: America’s Oldest Maritime Defenders

A 45 foot patrol boat along with an HH-65 helicopter training off the coast of Alaska.

The Coast Guard is one of the oldest organizations of the federal government. Established in 1790, the Coast Guard served as the nation’s only armed force on the sea until Congress launched the Navy Department eight years later. Since then, the Coast Guard has protected the United States throughout its long history and served proudly in every one of the nation’s conflicts.

The Coast Guard through History

4 August 1790 – President George Washington signs the Tariff Act that authorizes the construction of ten vessels, referred to as “cutters,” to enforce federal tariff and trade laws and to prevent smuggling. The Revenue Cutter Service expanded in size and responsibilities as the nation grew.

1915 – The Revenue Cutter Service merges with the U.S. Life-Saving Service, and is officially renamed the Coast Guard, making it the only maritime service dedicated to saving life at sea and enforcing the nation’s maritime laws.

1939 – President Franklin Roosevelt orders the transfer of the Lighthouse Service to the Coast Guard, putting it in charge of maritime navigation.

1946 – Congress permanently transfers the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation to the Coast Guard, putting merchant marine licensing and merchant vessel safety in its control.

1967 – The Coast Guard is transferred to Department of Transportation.

2003 – The Coast Guard is again transferred, this time to the Department of Homeland Security, where it currently serves.

The Coast Guard Today

The Coast Guard is both a federal law enforcement agency and a military force, and therefore is a faithful protector of the United States in peacetime and war. In times of peace, the Coast Guard operates as part of the Department of Homeland Security, enforcing the nation’s laws at sea, protecting the marine environment, guarding the nation’s vast coastline and ports, and performing vital life saving missions. In times of war, or at the direction of the President, the Coast Guard serves under the Department of the Navy, defending the nation against terrorism and foreign threats.

Statistics

The Coast Guard is the principal Federal agency responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship in U.S. ports and waterways. In this capacity, the Coast Guard protects and defends more than 100,000 miles of U.S. coastline and inland waterways, and safeguards an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) encompassing 4.5 million square miles stretching from North of the Arctic Circle to South of the equator, from Puerto Rico to Guam, encompassing nine time zones – the largest EEZ in the world. As one of the five Armed Services of the United States, the Coast Guard is the only military branch within the Department of Homeland Security. In addition to its role as an Armed Service, the Coast Guard is a first responder and humanitarian service that provides aid to people in distress or impacted by natural and man-made disasters whether at sea or ashore. The Coast Guard is a member of the Intelligence Community, and is a law enforcement and regulatory agency with broad legal authorities associated with maritime transportation, hazardous materials shipping, bridge administration, oil spill response, pilotage, and vessel construction and operation.

The over 56,000 members of the Coast Guard operate a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of 243 Cutters, 201 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, and over 1,600 boats. Operational control of surface and air assets is vested in two Coast Guard geographical Areas (Pacific and Atlantic), nine Coast Guard Districts, and 37 Sectors located at strategic ports throughout the country. Six Mission Support Logistics and Service Centers provide services for operational assets and shore facilities. Coast Guard program oversight, policy development, and personnel administration are carried out at Coast Guard Headquarters located on the St. Elizabeths campus in Washington, DC.

On an average day, the Coast Guard:

conducts 45 search and rescue cases;
saves 10 lives;
saves over $1.2M in property;
seizes 874 pounds of cocaine and 214 pounds of marijuana;
conducts 57 waterborne patrols of critical maritime infrastructure;
interdicts 17 illegal migrants;
escorts 5 high-capacity passenger vessels;
conducts 24 security boardings in and around U.S. ports;
screens 360 merchant vessels for potential security threats prior to arrival in U.S. ports;
conducts 14 fisheries conservation boardings;
services 82 buoys and fixed aids to navigation;
investigates 35 pollution incidents;
completes 26 safety examinations on foreign vessels;
conducts 105 marine inspections;
investigates 14 marine casualties involving commercial vessels;
facilitates movement of $8.7B worth of goods and commodities through the Nation’s Maritime Transportation System.

ALVA and ANSO Sign Cooperation Agreement to Support Latino Veterans

Herndon, VA – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) and the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) announce that they have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement to cooperate to support Latino service members and veterans.

Founded in 1981 by the first Secretary of the Navy of Hispanic descent, the Honorable Eduardo Hidalgo, the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) has long served as a mentoring and career development-focused organization. In addition to supporting outreach within America’s underserved communities, ANSO directly supports Hispanic/Latino(a) members in their decision to remain in their respective services and also helps those who separate or retire find outside employment through its extensive network.

The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) exists to help Latino veterans thrive and recognize their indispensable contributions throughout history. ALVA focuses on five key areas: Workforce development/job placement, Entrepreneurship and business growth, telling the stories of Latinos’ military contributions since the inception of our nation, Advocacy on policies that benefit veterans and Latinos, and a Repository of information on benefits/resources these veterans have earned.

“ANSO is proud to partner with and support ALVA. Together, we will continue to help our Hispanic, and Latino Service members thrive and be recognized for their exceptional contributions, not only while they serve, but also after separation or retirement.” CAPT Roy Love, President, ANSO.

“ALVA is so very excited to cement this relationship with ANSO and bolster the important work they have been doing for decades,” said Danny Vargas, Chairman/CEO of ALVA. “We share not only a common constituency, but also a common commitment to doing everything possible to Latino service members and veterans to have the access, the tools, and the resources needed to succeed.”

About Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO):

ANSO is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and promoting Hispanics and Latinos across all United States Sea Services ranks. To learn more about ANSO, visit: https://www.ansomil.org/ and follow us on:

https://www.facebook.com/ansomil
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ansomil
https://twitter.com/ansomil
https://www.instagram.com/ansomil/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqRhNSef_-Sg1i3KL3hmp_w

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:

https://www.facebook.com/alvavets
https://www.linkedin.com/company/alvavets/
https://twitter.com/alvavets
https://www.instagram.com/alvavets/
ALVA YouTube Channel

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June 2022 Message

Each person plays a role in groups, whether private or professional. These roles require constant adaptation and the use of a skill set – sometimes innate or learned from the environment – of which belonging and connection are a foundation. These roles, in many cases, become fundamental in the turn of historical events or in saving lives.

US Army Signals Intelligence Service cryptanalysts at Arlington Hall, Arlington, Virginia, United States, circa 1943. Source: WW2 Database

The role of Navy codebreakers during World War II, particularly in the Japanese naval force’s defeat during the Battle of Midway, was one of the most significant advantages for the allied forces. During the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the crucial win of the battle of Midway, the persistence, creativity, and hard work exercised by cryptanalysts to unlock the code used by the enemy forces in their radio communications continues to be recognized. The hard-working team worked out of a basement and dedicated long hours to this endeavor. Their role was pivotal to winning the war in the Pacific corridor.

Juneteenth celebrates the delivery of the news of the Emancipation Proclamation to the approximately 250,000 remaining slaves in Texas. This event took place nearly two and a half years after President Lincoln had released the proclamation nationwide and a few months after the end of the Civil War. What had been a local observance became a national holiday last year. One of the most remarkable aspects of this observance is the role played by U.S. Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger. Gen. Granger, who fought alongside Admiral David Glasgow Farragut during the Battle of Mobile Bay, issued General Order 3 to deliver the news about freedom to all slaves in the American Union. Gen. Granger became the instrument to share this transcendental news of hope and freedom.

General Order No. 3, issued by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, June 19, 1865. (Source: National Archives)

As we consider the roles of those who changed history, a question transpires about the role we play in groups as agents of connection and clear communication. How do we recognize that role? How intentional are we in understanding our place in these organizations? How do we know when a role is or could be of major impact?

One role available to all our ANSO leaders/members may be to share the most recent change to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Starting 16 July 2022, anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress can get assistance 24/7 by dialing 988 from any phone in the United States. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline provides information about resources available in the area. Services are confidential and free of charge. The change will not impact access to Veterans Crisis Line, which will still be available to Veterans and their loved ones. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in coordination with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is exploring the best way to get the word out to Veterans, service members, and their families about the 988 activation. To learn more about how 988 will affect the Veterans Crisis Line, click here. We can all play a role in suicide prevention, let’s get the word out.

Happy 4th of July 2022!!

As we celebrate and thank this country for all the blessings it provides, and salute her on her 246th birthday, we reflect on our origin stories and appreciate each other. Just like our forefathers, some of our members started their journey in foreign lands, while others were first in their family to be born in this great nation. Regardless of our origins, we are a family proud and honored to serve, or to have served, the United States in uniform. Today and every holiday, we should take the opportunity to get together with our service brothers and sisters to celebrate the different paths that brought us together. The quality time together off-duty helps to strengthen bonds that help us through good times and bad, and inviting friends for get-togethers is part of our American DNA. Enjoy your BBQs, stay safe, and take care of each other.

Happy 4th of July!!

Visit History.com for more about Independence Day.

Congratulations, Maj Orozco!

Congratulations to ANSO member, Major Ryan Orozco (USMC), on his retirement. Major Orozco held his retirement ceremony on 22 April 2022 at Cherry Point, NC, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. Our ANSO Marine Service Representative, LtCol Jose Montalvan (USMC), presided as his retiring officer.

Thank you Major Orozco for the over 20 yrs of honorable and faithful service to our nation. Fair winds and following seas.

Adelante con ANSO!!

Major Orozco Retirement Ceremony, Cherry Point, NC 22 April 2022

May 2022 Message

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15: 13 ESV).

Many who join the naval services believe in the intrinsic value of this statement. Sacrificing with honor is an ideal that provides a grounding, empowers the will, and gives meaning and purpose to those who wear the uniform and vow to protect and defend the Constitution. Reminding ourselves of this oath is a daily exercise that renews our commitment to the mission.

Military Spouses and Military Appreciation Days formalize the type of reminders described above. These observances highlight the generous contributions and meaningful sacrifices of military spouses and service members. Military spouses are clear examples of resilience, adaptability, and flexibility as they navigate the challenges of military life. As I write, my possible orders have changed three times, and with an expected move to take place in a few months, my spouse continues to embrace the challenges with a sense of calm, trust, and patience. Military spouses enable service members to live the values attached to the oath with confidence and a new perspective every day.

Memorial Day offered another opportunity to consider military values. Memorializing the honorable sacrifice of our fallen service members, recognizing their courage, and connecting with their legacies are some of the ways to keep them alive and maintain the mission still relevant. As the history of this observance began with the decoration of gravesites with flowers, flags, and other memorabilia, one of the most impactful messages about the occasion came from James A. Garfield in 1868 at Arlington National Cemetery. Garfield said, “We do not know one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke; but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens.” Garfield, a Union General, a Congressman, and the 20th president of the United States, emphasized in his tribute the contribution made through their sacrifice, “For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.”

Celebration of the fifth Decoration Day at Arlington Cemetery, May 30, 1873

Sacrifice and oaths have a special place among Latinos when considering the concept of familism (familismo). “Familismo, a Latino cultural value, refers to the importance of strong family loyalty, closeness, and getting along with and contributing to the wellbeing of the nuclear family, extended family, and kingship networks” (Ayon, Marsiglia, & Bermudez-Parsai, 2010). Close family ties require a commitment to the family in which emotional or physical sacrifices are expected. The narratives of those who first immigrated to the United States among Latino families exemplify the value of sacrifice in this context (…es por la familia!). Many scholars argue how familismo may be the key to recruiting more Latinos into military service.

The stunning news of another mass shooting in an elementary school was the background to see love in action by paying the ultimate sacrifice. Irma Garcia, one of the adults killed in this shooting and one of the teachers in a targeted classroom, understood it was too late for other measures and sheltered her students while getting shot multiple times. Mrs. Garcia, the mother of Pfc. Cristian Garcia, a Marine Corps Reservist, was proud of her son and his choice to join the Corps. She was married to the love of her life, and together they raised four children. Jose Garcia, her husband, died a couple of days later from a heart attack, which family members attribute to a broken heart.

Pfc. Cristian Garcia with parents, Irma and Jose Garcia (Source: BurnPits360 Facebook Page)

The meaning of sacrifice may be an antithesis for many, but not for most Latinos. Honorable military service translates into a generous gift of self for the good of others. Every time a young woman or man raises a hand to pledge the oath of enlistment or commissioning, the decision is clearly expressed for all to hear, “I, (state your name) do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic… So help me God.”

Ayon, C., Marsiglia, F. F., & Bermudez-Parsai, M. (2010). Latino Family Mental Health: Exploring the Role of Discrimination and Familismo. Journal of Community Psychology, 38(6), 742-756.

Memorial Day 2022

ANSO Familia, Memorial Day is a special time to honor, reflect, and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Today, as we gather with family and friends, let us also take some time to remember the fallen, and honor their service. Service is demanding, and many of us get to eventually return home and start new lives. The many who gave their lives so we could continue to enjoy freedom and democracy should never be forgotten.

Today, we remember them, and we honor them for their service and sacrifice.

April 2022 Message

April was a significant month for the ANSO familia. Our Atlantic Region Symposium (ARS) welcomed leaders, members, partners, volunteers, and participants from our naval forces to experience the power of connection, an intrinsic value among Latinos. Identifying with the stories shared, exchanging business cards, and establishing new mentoring relationships were just a few expressions of connectedness in action. The ARS was a celebration of connected leadership, assuring maritime superiority as a constant endeavor.

We build connectedness as we open spaces that foster belongingness, trust, and mutual respect. As we carefully and purposely cultivate these spaces, relationships become more meaningful, interdependence grows, and personal value intensifies. Connectedness creates environments for leadership to flourish and renew itself.

My first lessons in connectedness came from my mother. She had the gift to build connections almost anywhere she went. People knew about Doña Blanca, her humanitarian spirit, and compassionate care. Since my role was to be her companion, I had the privilege of seeing her build relationships with people at all levels with humility and confidence. Through those interactions, she conveyed a message of dependability and reliance. People knew they could trust her and call on her whenever there was a need in the community. She was generous with her time, talents, and limited resources.

The experience of connectedness reemerged as we received the invitation to remember and say “never again” at the end of April. Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, was an opportunity to stop and consider the systematic murder of Jews and other minorities by the Nazi regime during World War II. In a spirit of connectedness, we had the opportunity to grieve the loss of human lives during one of the most challenging times in recorded history and renew our commitment to uphold and defend human rights.

As we consider the value of connectedness, from the individual to the communal, from our ANSO chapters to the entire organization, let us recognize its relevance personally and professionally, as well as the value of connectedness in the full range of the human experience, from the times of joyful celebration to the grief that energizes change and transformation.

March 2022 Message

In March of 2020, our typical world drastically changed. Streets were almost empty, traffic jams got reduced as workers and students stayed home, and even a roll of toilet paper along with cleaning supplies turned into gold. The reality of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) intrusively took hold of our existence as a world pandemic (as declared by the World Health Organization on 11 March 2020) and a national emergency (13 March 2020). With COVID-19 came a wave of severe medical symptoms, the need for triaging patients who might receive further treatment, and ethical/moral decisions that stretched healthcare workers to the max. Uncertainty, fear, doubt, anger, and polarization abounded. Confirmed cases and deaths increased daily, and every new variant left us wondering about the future. At times, it seemed endless, with no practical resolution on sight.

To all these experiences, we add the challenges to mental health connected to isolation, social distancing, and masking. The experience of being away from our families during meaningful times and celebrations affected our core beliefs. Some experienced financial struggles as income declined, small businesses closed, and jobs changed value. A reidentification of spiritual toughness and connectedness became an implicit requirement to reengage with life. Creativity and intentionality turned out as the highest commodities to adaptation and resilient living.

As we come to this point in the “new normal” journey, take time to stop, go over the experiences lived through these two years of the pandemic, be thankful, and identify lessons learned about self, significant relationships, and values. We have grown in multiple areas and through challenging environments.

Above all, we have kept our hope alive.

ANSO 2022 Atlantic Region Symposium Registration Open

Registration is open for our 2022 Atlantic Region Symposium, which will be held 12 to 14 April 2022 onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. A virtual option will also be available.

This year’s theme is ”Leadership Excellence: Assuring Maritime Superiority.” We have an impressive line up of speakers and all all are invited to participate.

The event is open to ANSO members and sponsored participants. Military services are sponsoring a number of spots which include a one year membership. Details on how to obtain a sponsorship can be found in the service specific messages posted in our event page.

Full details and the agenda can be found on our event page.

February 2022 Message

My Colombian ancestors come from multiple shapes and colors. My father’s hair, skin, and facial features are those of a mulatto. His curly hair grew like an afro. My mother used to take care of haircuts every time. With no formal training, she knew how to make it work. The pictures of my great-grandmother reaffirm the fact that there is a large amount of Black in my family. The Afro-Latin blood is part of my heritage, even if the pigmentation of my skin doesn’t explicitly show it.

As we celebrate the contributions of Blacks to the sociocultural, political, scientific, and economic framework of America in the month of February, it’s also time to talk about the Afro-Latinos who have been a part of this process. The conversation about Afro-Latinos has been ongoing for years. One example comes from Roberto Angleró, a Puerto Rican artist. Satire and art aligned in 1979 with Angleró’s song “Si Dios fuera negro.” Recent years have brought a resurge in the multiracial dialogue in many countries in Latin America. These continue to raise awareness of the discrimination towards Blacks in such environments. There are still a lot of covert patterns of discrimination to address. The future of these conversations is promising.

While only 25% of Hispanics in the United States identify as Afro-Latinos according to a Pew Center report, Afro-Latino: A deeply rooted identity among U.S. Hispanics by Gustavo Lopez and Ana Gonzalez-Barrera, many of them live the experience of intersectionality as a byproduct of race and ethnicity in the shadows, buried in a limbo of disconnection. What are their family roots? Where do they belong? Still, through all these questions and experiences, many Afro-Latinos have shown resilience, overcame obstacles, and left a legacy that continues to transcend today.

Afro-Latinos like astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, historian Arturo Schomburg (founder of what is known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture), actress and dancer Sylvia del Villard, and television news anchor Gwen Ifill have been remarkable examples of the power of resilience and active engagement. Artists like Celia Cruz, “Machito” (born Frank Grillo), Mario Bauza, and Johnny Pacheco, among others, challenged the status quo and pushed the boundaries in the world of entertainment. In sports, some of the most significant examples of Afro-Latinos come from the world of baseball. Players like Estevan Bellan, Rafael Almeida, and Armando Marsans opened the door for waves of Afro-Latinos to make a difference on the diamond. These names only scratch the surface. There are many others we honor and emulate.

Considering my Afro-Latino heritage, Puerto Rican poet Julia de Burgos makes several strong points through the verses of “Ay, ay, ay de la Grifa Negra.” The lines and a reading of such a strong poem are available below. De Burgos masterfully carves the messages of resilience, identity, and strength.

Be proud of our Afro-Latino heritage!

Ay-ay-ay-de-la-Grifa-Negra-Translated-2 Download

January 2022 Message

Some people use the New Year to establish new goals, reset old ones, or identify a new vision for the future. Resolutions give us the chance to renew our vision boards and relaunch SMART personal and professional goals. This process is best accomplished when we keep these goals alive and new throughout the year.

Most of those who established any resolutions tend to forget them within weeks. Those who still remember them may find they are no longer applicable or relevant. Still, beginning with the end in mind is a practical way to prioritize our daily activities with a common goal.

Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. is a prime example of this kind of living. His vision of a new society is sometimes reduced to the “I Have a Dream” speech. However, his message goes well beyond that. Dr. King challenged systemic racism, poverty, and war. He brought his words and teachings to action. Participating in marches, mobilizing teams, and engaging in significant conversations with leaders, Dr. King acted and taught us the way of non-violence and perseverance to build justice at all levels in society.

As we consider this year in the light of Dr. King’s example, I invite you to activate your vision and get engaged. For the last six years, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) followed that path and established the National Day of Racial Healing. The Tuesday after the celebration of Dr. King’s birthday, people from all walks of life gather to witness the vision of racial healing becoming real in individuals, groups, and communities around our country. Dr. King’s actual vision and celebration inspire many others to build healing in local communities here and now.

Each of us, part of the ANSO familia, has the chance to join the march for racial healing. One way to do so is by getting involved in the mentoring opportunities available through The Hispanics Inspiring Students’ Performance and Achievement (HISPA). January is National Mentoring Month. HISPA continues to open spaces for Hispanic professionals to be role models to youth around the nation. Our ANSO president, CAPT Roy Love, received the INSPIRE award, Champion of the Year, for all the outstanding support to the organization. Join these efforts and inspire others by sharing your story.

Detroit poet Reyes performed side by side with John Legend with a rendition of Nina Simone’s “I Wish I Knew How It Felt To Be Free” and shared one of his transformational poems. Take a few minutes and remember this is #HowWeHeal.

Invitation to Surface Navy Association’s 34th National Symposium Virtual Panel

The Surface Navy Association (SNA) has extended an invitation to ANSO for a panel discussion on Thursday, 13 Jan, 1430 – 1630, which is part of the SNA’s 34th National Symposium in Washington, DC. Participation is virtual and FREE. Our President, CAPT Roy Love, USN (Ret), will be one of the panelists.

Registration to participate is not required. Simply click on the link below at 1430 EST on Thursday, 13 Jan.

https://www.snanational.com/ssla

A few notes:

*Unlike Zoom hosted sessions, the audience will be cameras off, and muted. However, participants can still submit questions by typing them in. There will be someone moderating the questions.

*Due to COVID precautions and travel restrictions, our panel members have adapted. As of right now, three panel members will be virtual (V) and three will be live in person (P), on stage with me and VADM (ret) Mary Jackson:

(V) RADM Yvette Davids, USN, COS, USSOCOM, former Commander, CSG11
(V) CAPT Rob Francis, USN: CDRE, DESRON 50, former CO (DDG 82), former RO (CVN 76)
(P) CAPT(ret) Roy Love, USN, President, Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO)
(P) CAPT Jean Marie Sullivan, USN, Division Chief, Joint Staff, Deputy Director Global Operations
(V) CDR Alexa Jenkins, USN: XO, USS Carney (DDG-64), former President SSLA
(P) CMDCM Jeanette Hafer, USN: NLEC, former CMC (DDG 51)

For more information on the full three day event, please visit https://www.navysnaevents.org/national-symposium/

December 2021 Message

2021 marks the 50th anniversary of a simple tune that has been the delight of many, young and old during the holiday season. It celebrates the magic of the season with a bilingual message. The song repeats six words in Spanish and 14 in English. It happens to be one of those songs that stick to the unconscious of anyone listening, echoing, again and again, this refrain: “Feliz Navidad; Feliz Navidad; Feliz Navidad, Prospero Año y Felicidad. I want to wish you a Merry Christmas; I want to wish you a Merry Christmas; I want to wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart.” This catchy beat is as new today as it was five decades ago.

It’s hard to believe that this meaningful holiday song was released two years after José Feliciano faced one of the most controversial moments in his professional career as he performed the Star-Spangled Banner during the 1968 World Series. His soulful interpretation was met by boos, yelling, and disapproval from some people in the crowd. Feliciano faced strong criticism outside the ballpark as well. Many people back then were not used to hearing different versions of the national anthem.

The Puerto Rican musician and composer didn’t let his career go sour. After all the mixed messages in response to this performance, he remained true to himself. Trusting his skills, he devoted himself to his mission as an entertainer. He maintained one foot grounded on his Latin roots and the other crossing over to the American market. Two years after so many had turned against his performance of the national anthem, he found a way to break through the ice of criticism, reopening the door to new opportunities to explore his creativity. Every stroke of his acoustic guitar brought the island spirit across people from different cultures.

Feliciano, visually impaired from birth, loved music since he was a child and didn’t let glaucoma become a label to hold him from reaching his highest potential.

Thinking about this journey, I wonder: what is our glaucoma? What is our ballpark or performance? What is our guitar? What is the new song that inspires new hearts every day?

May we continue to celebrate the New Year en familia.

For more of José Feliciano’s music check out his YouTube channel

Previous En Familia messages

November 2021 Message

Jennie Augusta Brownscombe, The First Thanksgiving,1914, Pilgrim Hall Museum, Plymouth, Massachusetts — Jennie Augusta Brownscombe, *The First Thanksgiving,* 1914, Pilgrim Hall Museum, Plymouth, MA, USA.

Cooking, traveling, cleaning, decorating, sharing, a little dancing, laughing. Perhaps, we participated in some of these activities in the last week as we celebrated Thanksgiving Day. I remember my first Thanksgiving Day after arriving in the United States in 1991. Some friends told me about the celebration. The portrait of pilgrims and natives enjoying a meal together was the picture-perfect image in my mind for years. Time and time again, I remember sharing this with friends and family. It was a tragic story with a happy ending.

Recently, I became aware of the National Thanksgiving Proclamation, the first of its kind, released by President George Washington. The idealistic image of the meal gained historical perspectives with this written document, a declaration signed in New York City, 26 November 1789, and calling for a public day of prayer and thanksgiving. Washington’s proclamation didn’t call for a permanent observance. It connected well with the sociopolitical environment of the time and was a voice in a chain of leaders who called for days of thanksgiving throughout the years. It wasn’t until President Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation in 1863 that the National Day of Thanksgiving became a permanent celebration.

Washington invited all citizens to join in thanksgiving and prayer (1) for the new government; (2) for God’s protection before and after the war; and (3) for the future of the nation. What are you thankful for today? What inspires your heart to gratefulness? As we embark on the holidays, express your thanksgiving and pray as you name your blessings this year, both personally and professionally.

President Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation reads as follows:

By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor– and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks–for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation–for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war–for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed–for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted–for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions– to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually–to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed–to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord–To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and us–and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Go: Washington

(From https://www.mountvernon.org/education/primary-sources-2/article/thanksgiving-proclamation-of-1789/)

ANSO Featured on NBC Nightly News Report

ANSO was featured in a Nightly News report that aired on November 10, 2021, which talked about Hispanic/Latino representation at the upper levels of our military services. Our President, CAPT Roy Love (USN ret), was interviewed and his comments are featured at the 2:44 mark.

As CAPT Love mentions in the interview, we/ANSO are blessed to have the support of, and access to, many senior leaders that make themselves available to our membership. Perfect example is our current Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, who has been an active ANSO member and who recently participated in our Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) and 40th Anniversary virtual celebration. His remarks at the event can be found in our new ANSO Lens page. Other highlights of the event can be seen on our YouTube Channel Playlist.

The NBC report is a great opportunity for ANSO to get national level visibility and we must build on the momentum by educating people on our organization, and continue our mission dedicated to the recruitment, retention, and promotion of Hispanics and Latinos across all ranks of the US Navy, US Marine Corps, US Coast Guard, and US Merchant Marine. To that end, we continue to actively work to provide opportunities for our members to obtain the career guidance, mentorship, and professional development necessary to prepare and successfully compete for those challenging assignments and opportunities. Nothing is impossible with the right attitude and support network.

Some of our new initiatives/features include:

As we continue to focus on the Lines of Effort (LOEs) outlined in our ANSO Strategic Plan 2021, we ask members to participate in our local chapters, consider taking on leadership roles at the chapter or national level, and take advantage of the opportunities made available. We will continue to provide updates via emails, our website, and our social media channels. Please contact us if you have any questions, comments, or recommendations. We are at your service, thank you for your continued support, and Adelante con ANSO!!

Happy Veterans Day 2021

We thank and wish all our brothers and sisters who have served, and who continue to serve, a happy Veterans Day 2021.

History

Veterans Day Poems

2021 National Veterans Day Poster Contest Winner

Happy 246th Birthday United States Marine Corps

Happy 246th Birthday to the United States Marine Corps and to all our ANSO Marines!

Since 10 Nov 1775, you have fought in every clime and place and consistently demonstrated to be one of the finest fighting forces in history!

And as President Reagan stated “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in this world. The Marines don’t have that problem.”

Semper Fi Marines and Happy Birthday!

New Professional Development Opportunity

ANSO members have been offered the opportunity to obtain the BlueDragon Hyper-Integrated Causal Analysis (HCA) Analyst Certification training, a value of over $1k, for FREE. Participants must be ANSO members in good standing for the duration of the course, and must commit to completing the training within the required time.

Course details and registration instructions can be found in the Professional Development section of our Resources page. Note that you must be logged in to our website to access the page. If you need help logging in to the site, please send an email to membership@ansomil.org.

Adelante con ANSO!

October 2021 Message

Our Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations gave us a framework of Esperanza, a sparkle to embrace new strategies to achieve our mission as ANSO family. As we heard from leaders, both from low and higher echelons in our naval services, much has been done in recruitment, promotion, and retention of Hispanics and minorities, and still, there is much more to do. ANSO familia, we have been and continue to be part of that answer. Let’s always remember that.

During the month of October, our country grieved the loss of General (Ret.) Colin Powell, a military leader and statesman, who served our country for many decades. General Powell came from humble beginnings. He knew well the challenges of migration, as his parents moved from Jamaica to New York City. From the South Bronx, Powell rose to serve our country as a four-star Army General, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the U.S. first Black Secretary of State. His legacy of dedicated and honorable service left us a set of 13 rules for leadership crafted in his memoir It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership. The following version comes from Share America (a website managed by the Bureau of Global Public Affairs within the U.S. Department of State):

It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning. Leaving the office at night with a winning attitude affects more than you alone; it also conveys that attitude to your followers.
Get mad, then get over it. Everyone gets mad. It’s a natural and healthy emotion. My experience is that staying mad isn’t useful.
Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it. Accept that your position was faulty, not your ego.
It can be done. Have a positive and enthusiastic approach to every task. Don’t surround yourself with instant skeptics.
Be careful what you choose: You may get it. You will have to live with your choices. Some bad choices can be corrected. Some you’ll be stuck with.
Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision. Superior leadership is often a matter of superb instinct. When faced with a tough decision, use the time available to gather information that will inform your instinct.
You can’t make someone else’s choices. You shouldn’t let someone else make yours. Make sure the choice is yours and you are not responding to the pressure and desire of others.
Check small things. Leaders have to have a feel for small things — a feel for what is going on in the depths of an organization where small things reside.
Share credit. People need recognition and a sense of worth as much as they need food and water.
Remain calm. Be kind. Few people make sound or sustainable decisions in an atmosphere of chaos.
Have a vision. Be demanding. Followers need to know where their leaders are taking them and for what purpose. Good leaders set vision, mission, and goals.
Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers. Those who do risk wasting their time and energy.
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. If you believe in the likelihood of success, your followers will too.

Childhood Photo From Back Cover of General Powell’s *My American Journey* Biography

ANSO President’s Monthly Message

ANSO Familia,

Saludos a todos! I hope everyone is well, and that you continue to be blessed. We are still in the midst of this Pandemic, and many have been affected by this and other things. These are tough times. If you need anything, please know that we are here for you. All you need to do is reach out and let us know how we can support you.

As I wrap up my second month as your President, I wanted to update you all on the wonderful things ANSO has done in the last two months, especially through Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) celebrations.

Some of the highlights:

1. ANSO New England held a wonderful HHM event on the 5th of October. I was able to fly to Boston and spend some time with Berto Perez and his chapter, eat some great food, drink some amazing Coquito, and say a few words about ANSO to all the CG personnel present. Over 200 people attended that event! See more details on the chapter page. A very well executed event.

2. On the 6th of October, we hosted the ANSO HHM and 40th Anniversary event online. The Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, The Commandant of the CG, Admiral Dennis Velez, and many others took part in our event. Overall we had about 60 participants online. Although most of the participants were not ANSO members, I think it was a great event. You can find the videos of the speakers on our new YouTube channel. We also ran a series called ANSO Members in the highlight. We have uploaded all those videos on our YT channel now. These are excellent interviews with some of our members. Please make some time to watch these 15-20 minute videos.

3. This month, we worked with Mr. Rob De La Espriella, owner of BlueDragon HCA. Mr. De La Espriella has offered ANSO access to an online course on critical thinking. This course, normally over $1000, is available to all ANSO members free of charge! This is in line with our Line of Effort (LOE) to increase benefits to all of our members, and helps us provide greater opportunities through learning courses. We will open registrations very soon, so keep an eye out on the Resources section of our website for the link to sign up! Courses like this help you while on active duty, but also will provide certification (through a post course process) for post military life. And its free right now!

4. Our efforts in supporting the Sea Services continue to bear fruits. In the last few weeks I have been working with the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Manpower and Reserve Affairs (ASN (M&RA)) Director for Diversity and Inclusion on several initiatives in support of Equity and Inclusion in the Navy. More to follow on this! Progress is being made!

5. On 4 October, I was invited to the US Naval Academy for a Diversity and Inclusion conference. It was great to see Admiral Velez, CAPT Then, LCDR Machado, and many others at the conference (see picture below). I also participated in one of the Panels and was able to talk about ANSO and the work we are doing. We are being invited to the table and asked to speak more and more. This is how we advance our LOE to bring greater visibility to our organization on behalf of all our members.

Pictured left to right, LCDR Machado, CAPT Love (ret), RDML Velez, and CAPT Then at the US Naval Academy Diversity and Inclusion Conference, 4 Oct 2021.

6. On 13 October, CDR Tico Valenzuela and I attended the Naval History and Heritage Command Navy birthday celebration with SECNAV. A great event highlighting Admiral Farragut and his legacy.

SECNAV cutting the cake at the Naval History and Heritage Command Navy birthday celebration, 13 October 2021.

7. Two days ago I was the guest speaker for an OPNAV N17 DE&I HHM series. It was another great opportunity to talk about ANSO.

8. Yesterday we had session two of two Hispanics Inspiring Students’ Performance and Achievement (HISPA) ANSO role model training events. We had four members sign up to mentor our youth as part of HISPA’s efforts to show young Hispanics and Latinos that we can do anything! We need more volunteers for this effort. It is inline with our recruiting LOE. HISPA is giving ANSO about 14 sessions starting in Dec-Feb to connect with different classrooms around the country. We need to take full advantage of this. Please contact me or Rolando Machado to find out how you can participate. Thanks to Karen Gonzalez, Diego Londoño, and Javy Medina for leading ANSO as our first volunteers for this. Would love to see some CG and Marines join this effort.

9. Today I am on my way to San Diego for the NAVAIRFOR DEI summit. I hope to see some of our ANSO West Coast members there! More to follow on the conference.

We are doing great things, but we can do more. Your participation is critical to our success. We need to resume in person meetings as soon as possible. Our online events are all being posted for all to see, but few attend and fewer go back and watch them after they are posted. Please get involved. Take advantage of the things we are offering, and help us make ANSO better. There is strength in unity, and we need everyone to help us succeed.

Feel free to contact me anytime.

Un abrazo,
Roy

CAPT Roy Love, USN (Ret)
Presidente, ANSO
president@ansomil.org

ANSO YouTube Channel is Live!

We have launched a brand new YouTube Channel where we will share content from around the organization. Subscribe, share, and stay tuned.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqRhNSef_-Sg1i3KL3hmp_w

September 2021 Message

The ANSO family celebrates with joy and enthusiasm Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 with the theme “ESPERANZA: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope.” Our celebration began with our ANSO Presidente’s powerful message. This was the first step leading to a series of interviews, available through our social media channels, sharing the meaning of ESPERANZA in their lives and through this observance.

As I consider ESPERANZA, the sound of Latin pop rings to the core of my being as a powerful song comes to my memory. Color ESPERANZA (The Color of Hope), a song popularized by Diego Torres a decade ago and recently released as a united collaboration of various Hispanic/Latinx artists, brings the message to heart (see lyrics and watch the video below). According to the song, we follow a cognitive process (to know that it is possible) of assurance and validation that leads us to a desire to make things happen (to want it to happen). Then, we must take time to identify our apprehensions and challenges and develop plans to deal with them (to get rid of our fears). After that, it is time to bring hope to the forefront. The song uses a powerful image: paint our faces with the color of hope. This image recalls the face painting used by some of our forces to cover their faces before missions or trainings. In this case, hope is what we are wearing for the world to see. Then, we step into the future with our hearts, with passion, ready to meet new horizons and believe in what we do.

ESPERANZA is a lifestyle, a way to face challenges in life, whether personal, with our families, our teams, or professional, taking steps with confidence and projecting hope. As we celebrate this observance, it is time to renew our ESPERANZA and challenge ourselves to be ESPERANZA for our teammates.

September is also a time to remember the many lives lost to suicide, as we renew our commitment to being there for anyone who struggles with mental health or depression. In some cases, we may have to recognize it is time for us to take a knee and rest. ESPERANZA speaks to that. Instead of considering the great fight against suicide and depression, I invite you to consider the personal opportunities to walk with one another, listen with the intent to understand, and respond when your brother or sister in uniform needs you the most. Be ESPERANZA.

If you have not heard the most recent release of Color ESPERANZA, take some time, and check it out below. The lyrics are great material for personal reflection or group discussion as we continue our Hispanic Heritage observance. Remember to join us for ANSO’s virtual celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and our 40th Anniversary on Wednesday, 6 October starting at 1300 (see more details on our events calendar).