HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — The annual Hispanic Heritage Awareness luncheon took place Sept. 19, 2017, at the Hubbard Golf Course clubhouse here. The event was hosted by the Hispanic Heritage Committee and sponsored by the Team Hill Special Observance Council (THSOC).

This event is one of 10 Department of Defense special observances hosted by the THSOC. Sept. 15-Oct. 15 is designated as the month that commemorates and remembers the contributions of Hispanics to the United States.

Guest speaker for this year’s luncheon was retired Air Force Col. Kurt Gallegos, former commander of the Reserve 944th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB, Arizona. Gallegos, who was born and raised in Layton, Utah, told his personal story of service and the opportunities the Air Force provided him and others willing to work hard. He also spoke of being inspired to serve by the Hill AFB jets that flew above Layton during his youth.

Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community. Their efforts have also been reflected in this year’s theme, “Shaping the Bright Future of America.”

To learn more about the Hispanic Heritage Committee or other special observances celebrated and/or observed on Hill AFB, please email the THSOC at UDG_75ABW.EO_DiversityExecs@us.af.mil. Meetings are held every third Wednesday in bldg. 460, next to the base chapel, at 2 p.m.