From the Civil War to the conflicts of today, people with Hispanic Heritage roots have defended the United States and its way of life.

Robins will reflect on Hispanic Americans’ tradition, history and culture, as it celebrates this community’s achievements and contributions in history Sept. 15 – Oct. 15.

The celebration will begin with opening remarks from Col. Lyle Drew, 78th Air Base Wing commander, at the Base Exchange at noon, Sept. 15, with a Hispanic Heritage Display and free sampling of food from the culture. The kickoff will feature the 7-member dance group, the Sun Guadalajara, performing three dances: El Jarabe Tapatio, La Vikina, and Guadalajara.

Cake will also be served at the kickoff.

Ed Armijo, chairman of Robins’ Hispanic Heritage Committee, whose family shares a rich military history, said he encourages all who can to participate in the observance.

“Sharing such a beautiful culture is what I enjoy the most of Hispanic Heritage Month,” he said. “Houston County has so much talent from the diverse Latino community consisting of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican Republic and many more.”

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on Sept. 15 and ending on Oct. 15.

The observance was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.