The Diplomat
The largest military base in the State of Texas, in the United States, has been renamed Fort Cavazos, in honor of the first Four Star general of Hispanic descent in the history of the country, Richard Edward Cavazos.
Located 110 kilometers north of Austin, the capital of Texas, it is one of the largest and most important military bases for the US Army. Its 880 square kilometers allow for the training and cantonment of up to two armed divisions. Known by the neighboring communities as “the Big Place,” this space admits 16 units and houses not only facilities for the preparation of new soldiers, but also important services for their continuing education, their health and that of their families.
As reported last Thursday by the Hispanic Council, an independent think tank that promotes relations between Spain and the United States, the base has changed its name from Fort Hood to Fort Cavazos “to highlight the historic contributions of Hispanics to the defense and protection of Army values”. The name change is a U.S. Government-sponsored initiative in response to the recommendations of a U.S. Congressional commission.
“General Cavazos, the son of Mexican parents and a native of Texas, fought with bravery and loyalty in the Korean and Vietnam wars,” the Hispanic Council recalled. His command of the Spanish language was key to organizing the 65th Infantry during the Korean conflict. Most of the soldiers in that division were Spanish speakers from Puerto Rico. As a result, Cavazos’ leadership, even as a platoon leader, helped resolve “confusion and chaos” during the battles.
That milestone triggered a series of heroic deeds that culminated in 1984 after 33 years of service. General Cavazos passed away in 2017. Hispanic soldiers remember him as “a mentor” who paved the way for their own careers in the military. That is why the base where he was stationed in the 1950s, which this year celebrates 81 years since its founding, is named after him.
