"Each year, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the profound contributions Latinos have made to our country. This year's theme "Hispanics: Serving and Leading Our Nation with Pride and Honor" is a reminder that not only are Latinos the fastest growing community in the United States, but they have a long history of leadership and service to our great nation, and more yet to come. "This month is about honoring Latinos like those in our armed forces who sacrifice life and limb for the cause of our freedom and democracy. Latinos like Bill Lansford, a World War II veteran from East LA who became a successful writer and dedicated himself to ensuring that Latinos who served in our nation's wars were not forgotten. And Tony Zapata, a Navy veteran from Boyle Heights, who's continued leadership and service to his community and country recently earned him the recognition of Veteran of the Year in Los Angeles County. "We also honor Latinos who are working hard to achieve the American Dream. Latinos share the same hope, determination and optimism that all those in our country seek: an opportunity to succeed based on hard work, access to a better education, and an equal treatment under our laws. "There's no better example of that determination and aspiration than Maria Gomez, a DREAMer, the first in her family to go to college, and a UCLA graduate with a masters in architecture. "Please join me in celebrating a community whose hard work, achievements, and heritage will remain essential to our nation's progress in the 21st century. Let's celebrate together Hispanic Heritage Month. Felicidades!"

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