Operational Test Command hosted a celebration in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month on Friday, offering up samples of cultural performances and food, as well as reflections on diversity in America.

“This country we live in is the gold standard for diversity,” said Col. Eduardo Gutierrez, director of the unit’s Aviation Test Directorate, welcoming everyone to the ceremony. “Look at our Army, it’s the most proficient Army in the world right now. Its strength comes from its diversity.”

Guests were treated to cultural singing and dancing from Killeen’s Multi-Educational Cross Cultural and Arts Association, before hearing from guest speaker Minerva Trujillo, retired Killeen Independent School District teacher and administrator. She is also a Fort Hood Good Neighbor and widow of retired Lt. Col. Arthur Trujillo.

“Have you ever wondered what or who a Hispanic is?” asked Trujillo to open her speech. “Who are these people and why are we celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month?”

She then gave the abridged version the history of Spain and how its people and culture spread across the world.

“We who are called Hispanic continue to speak the language, continue the customs and we continue to contribute to this wonderful culture of ours and the world,” Trujillo said.

After sharing some of the contributions of famous Hispanics, and one of particular importance to her family — her husband — she thanked the soldiers present for their service. Aside from her husband’s service in Vietnam, she has a son serving in the Air Force.

“The Army is in my heart, and the Air Force is in my heart. God bless you for what you do and your families who serve,” she said.

The celebration was to honor Hispanic Heritage Month, which began Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15.

“Today was a celebration of part of our heritage in this country,” said Col. Joseph Martin, commander. “You didn’t have to come, but you wanted to be part of something bigger than yourself and wanted to learn something.”