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Veterans celebrated as focal point of Hispanic Heritage Month…Latino members of Congress gather in tribute at CHCI's week of events

WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) gathered Members of Congress and national leaders for its 30th anniversary Hispanic Heritage Month events, celebrating "Hispanic America: A Legacy of Honor," October 1 - 3, 2007.

Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients, WWII veterans of El Paso's Company E, and Latino veterans now serving in the U.S. Congress highlighted the week's events.

Company E of El Paso, TX (141st Army Infantry Regiment, 36th Division) were recognized during a Salute to Veterans at the Public Policy Conference. Company E was the only all-Chicano unit during World War II.

Despite their heroism in confronting German forces, they still faced discrimination at home. Company E members Ricardo Palacios, Sr., accompanied by his son, Ricardo Palacios, Jr., and David Navarrete, son of Company E member Captain Gabriel Navarrete, participated in the event.

Hispanic Members of Congress who have served in the military shared their stories, including Congressmen Joe Baca, Solomon Ortiz, Silvestre Reyes, and John Salazar.

Forty Members of Congress, an unprecedented number, united to honor Hispanic veterans at the 30th Annual Gala. This year's Chairman's Award, selected by CHCI Chairman, Hon. Joe Baca (CA-43), honored all Hispanic veterans who have served our country and pay tribute to three of five living Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients who were present, Alejandro Renteria Ruiz, Rodolfo Perez Hernandez, and Alfred Rascon.

In addition, Congressman Ciro Rodrigues will host a Summit on veterans as part of the Public Policy Conference.