As we begin the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, a certain group has faded from the memory of most of the public. This organization was made up of veterans from World War 2 who simply wanted the benefits that had been promised to all returning veterans, but were in fact kept from most minority veterans.

While the G.I. Forum has faded from the memory of many, the work of one of its founders, Dr. Hector P. Garcia, needs to be brought back into the light for young Hispanics to emulate.

Dr. Garcia fled Mexico with his family during the Mexican Revolution. Hector, and five of his siblings, became medical doctors. Dr. Garcia received both his bachelor’s degree and M.D. from the University of Texas.

Just a few short years after that Dr Garcia joined the military, reaching the rank of Major and he was awarded the Bronze Star.

When he returned to Texas after the war he saw how returning Hispanic veterans were treated. In fact, he saw how all Hispanics were treated. He began to work to improve things. In 1949 the remains of a WW2 soldier were returned to Three Rivers, TX for burial, however the funeral home would not handle the arrangements. After complaining to the Senator from Texas, LBJ, Felix Longoria was interred in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

Thus began the legacy of the G.I. Forum which would continue to fight for improved health care, education, and fair labor practices for Hispanics. When I was growing up in Dallas I knew several veterans who were members of the organization and would travel to San Antonio for meetings. They were good men whose kids attended school with me. One was a cousin to Felix Longoria and that is why I know that story.

Dr. Garcia was called on by several Presidents to assist them. He was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Reagan.

I made a mistake in a paragraph above. Dr. Garcia’s life should not be emulated by young Hispanics. It should be emulated by us all.

September 19th is Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day in Texas.

John Droll