LATINO Magazine celebrated Veteran’s Day by recognizing Latino veterans in corporate America.  The third annual ESTRELLA Awards were presented during a luncheon at the Army and Navy Club in Washington, DC that included veterans, community leaders, stakeholders and representatives of IMPACT, Hilton, BP, Facebook and T-Mobile.

“We all owe a debt to the men and women who serve our country to provide them with good jobs,” said Publisher Alfredo Estrada, “and so does corporate America. But it’s also good business. With their unique leadership skills and training, Latino veterans have a tremendous economic contribution to make.”

Snow fell outside as the luncheon began with a welcome by Alejandra Castillo, CEO of the YWCA and former director of MBDA in the Obama Administration,  This was followed by a moving presentation by Dalia Almanza Smith of a flag that belonged to her father, a WWII veteran.

The first company recognized for its support of veterans was Facebook. The award was presented by David Orozco to Janet Sanchez, an Army wife and founder of Esposas Militres Hispanas USA, a nonprofit which supports Hispanic military families.. The second award was presented by Anais Carmona, T-Mobile, to Guillermo Aguilera. Kevin Hilton, CEO of IMPACT, recognized Al Dominguez, an ironworker veteran and entrepreneur. BP was represented by Sid Goodfriend, the Founder  and CEO of American Corporate Partners, a nationwide mentoring program dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian life.

Many thanks to Col. Lon Ratley USAF (Ret.) and all the friends of LATINO Magazine who attended the 2018 ESTRELLA Awards, including our partners Hilton, BP, Facebook, IMPACT, T-Mobile, the Carlos Rosario School, and Latino veterans everywhere. ¡Saludos!