The Eugene A. Obregon Medal of Honor Foundation

 

The Eugene A. Obregon Medal of Honor Foundation was co-founded on September 16, 1993, by three World War II combat veterans: William D. Lansford, Al Flores, and  Pete Valdez. as a charitable 501(c) (3) non-profit, tax-exempt Foundation (IRS # 95-4457163) dedicated to erecting a monument to Latino American recipients of  America's highest military award the Congressional Medal of Honor. (Dad & Al Pics)

As young men overseas fighting in the South Pacific with the legendary Carlson's Raiders at Guadalcanal, and in the battles of Bougainville and Iwo Jima, Bill and Al had witnessed first hand the courage and self sacrifice engendered by war. They envisioned a Monument in their hometown of Los Angeles that would be a source of pride for at risk youth in Los Angeles - just as they, themselves, had once been.

Their mission to promote brotherhood continues stronger than ever, as a new generation comes home from war, bringing with them amazing stories of gallantry and sacrifice.

Your contribution will help create this magnificent statue of Eugene Obregon, a lasting symbol of the heroism and sacrifice of our Latino American patriots. On the statue’s base will be inscribed the names of ll Latino Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, most of whom lost their lives for their comrades and their beloved country.

The Foundation's objectives are:

  1. To raise capital to plan, construct, install and maintain the Eugene A. Obregon/CMH monument.
  2. To bring to the general public awareness of the significant contributions Latinos have made to our American ideals by honoring Latino Americans who have received the Congressional Medal of Honor.
  3. To make Latino-American families and their children aware of their value to our country, thus instilling pride and motivation to future generations of Latino Americans. Also, to inform the general public of the Latino role in maintaining our freedom and ideals.
  4. To promote brotherhood among all Americans, whatever their origins.

Our mission has been publicized in many newspapers and other media. It has received the endorsement of many notable Americans, including former President Bill Clinton, members of Congress, State and local officials, and scores of military and veterans organizations. Its Board of Directors and Honorary Board represent a cross-section of the community and the Foundation enjoys the support of many celebrities in the field of entertainment.

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Frank Juarez - President
  • Ruth Lansford - Vice President
  • Bel Hernandez - Publisher & Editor, "Latin Heat"
  • Matthew Lansford - Media Director
  • Christopher J. Kinsman - Jose de la Fuente
  • Ray Delgado
  • Jim Proser
  • Keith Jeffreys
  • Diana M. Turnacliff

HONORARY BOARD

  • Hon. Xavier Becerra  - Congressman, 31st Dist. - CA
  • Hon. Lucille Roybal-Allard  - Congresswoman, 34th Dist. - CA
  • Hon. Loretta Sanchez - Congresswoman, 47th Dist. - CA
  • Hon. Mike Hernandez - Former Councilmember, Los Angeles
  • Cynthia Ruiz - Deputy Executive Director External Relations
    Port of Los Angeles
  • John Guerra - Sr. Regional Public Affairs Mgr.
    Southern California Gas Co.

ART COMMITTEE

  • Eddie Martinez - Monument Designer
  • Edrik Blome - Sculptor
  • Ken Bracken - Artist

 

TAX, ACCOUNTING & SYSTEMS

  • Premier Tax Service

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

  • Marvin Smith - Veterans Liaison  11th Airborne Assoc.
  • Michael V. Sedano
  • Daniel Cano
  • Gloria de Negochea

 

FOUNDERS IN MEMORIAM

  • William Douglas Lansford
  • Alexander Flores
  • Pete Valdez