In 1944 a squadron of Mexican soldiers, thirty-six of them Airmen marched across the international bridge in Laredo bound for San Antonio. Their destination Randloph Army Airfield for training that would have them join the U.S. war efforts.
This is just one example of our neighbor to the south that has been Able and Ready to join the U.S. in their time of need. Not to mention helping build the Railroad system, working in the mines and to this day still in the agriculture industry.
So, it should not be a surprise to most when the recent floods on the Guadlupe River devasted Texas residents, Mexican citizens answered the call. They came as volunteers nobody asked them to come but they were just doing what any good neighbor should do. According to a published CNN report their founder said “Theres’ nothing that avoid us from helping another firefighter, another family. “No matter where we are in the world,” remarked Ismael Aldaba, founder of Fundacion 911.
Many groups, organizations, and individuals have provided support to fellow Texans in need. However, I felt it important to highlight the Mexican volunteer group for two reasons. First because their efforts lacked sufficient recognition. And second because while the current administration both at the federal and state often paint Mexico as the enemy. Or as drug dealers or even worse.
That did not stop Fundacion 911 from doing what they know is right. Which is something we all should do. Not just when we go to church on Sundays. Our prayers continue for all the affected families and all the First Responders and volunteers still on scene. By A. Govea goveaalberto215@yahoo.com