Spc. Clarisa Velazquez-Cruz, signal support systems specialist, Company C, 52nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, loads magazines with ammunition Sept. 21, 2016, prior to her first firing iteration during weapons zeroing for the 4th Infantry Division Best Signal Warrior Competition. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris)
By Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris
2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division
In today’s Army, as it has been for many years, there are a multitude of ethnic and racial backgrounds that make up the formations across the globe.
For one Soldier in particular, her heritage is not only something she is proud of but is a symbol of continued service to the nation.
Spc. Clarisa Velazquez-Cruz, signal support systems specialist, Company C, 52nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, says her Hispanic heritage plays a large role in her pride in service.
“Growing up, I was taught that being Hispanic is who we are,” Cruz said. “I’m proud of my heritage and being able to wear this uniform. Hispanic families are usually very tight-knit and I use that same mentality at work to bring our team together.”
Cruz added that many of her Family members had previously served in the military, some still serving, so the decision to enlist was that much easier.
“I was going to college before and it was tough,” she said. “My brothers are in the military, both of my parents served in the military and even my stepfather served. I just felt like this was something that would help round me out even more.”
Although she is away from her hometown, she still does what she can to support the Hispanic community in Westminster, Maryland.
“The people I grew up with, my mom and their moms, made a support group to ease some of the racial tensions we faced,” she said. “Any time I go back home, I help as much as I can, whether it’s helping families or helping specific individuals fill out citizenship applications.”
Cruz said being in the Army has helped her grow as a person and to have more pride in her heritage.
“My mom had this saying growing up — mejorando la raza — it means ‘to better the race.’ I always thought that meant just our race or our heritage,” Cruz said. “Joining the Army helped me understand that many people need help, and it doesn’t matter what their background is. I want to be the one to help.”