The Hispanic Gallery Honors
Rockford Mexican-American Veterans
Sunday, November 3rd, 2024
2:00-4:00 pm
Free to the public, but donations are greatly appreciated.
2:00-4:00 pm
Free to the public, but donations are greatly appreciated.
Join the Hispanic Gallery as it hosts a special program and display honoring three generations of the Medina family; Vince Medina (grandfather), Larry Medina (son) and Cole McCarren (grandson). The Medina family is being honored for their outstanding service in the United States Armed Forces.
Vince Medina, Bronze Star recipient, served 25 years in the U.S. Air Force from 1949 – 1976. He now serves as the Ross Pearson VFW Commander and the State of Illinois 6th District Commander. He is a member of VietNow, a lifetime member of Knights of Columbus (4th degree Knight) and the Vice President of Mexican American Latin Organization.
Larry J. Medina (deceased) served in the U.S. Marine Corp for 13 years. He reached the rank of Staff Sergeant during the Persian Gulf War. Larry was the recipient of Combat Action Ribbon and the Parachute Jump Master Goldwing for executing over 200 jumps. Larry died in a tragic civilian parachute accident in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1994.
Cole McCarren, a Rockford native, served 2.5 years and was honorably discharged due to an injury. Before he was discharged, he had become a small weapons expert and sharpshooter. Golfing is Cole’s favorite hobby.
Vince Medina, Bronze Star recipient, served 25 years in the U.S. Air Force from 1949 – 1976. He now serves as the Ross Pearson VFW Commander and the State of Illinois 6th District Commander. He is a member of VietNow, a lifetime member of Knights of Columbus (4th degree Knight) and the Vice President of Mexican American Latin Organization.
Larry J. Medina (deceased) served in the U.S. Marine Corp for 13 years. He reached the rank of Staff Sergeant during the Persian Gulf War. Larry was the recipient of Combat Action Ribbon and the Parachute Jump Master Goldwing for executing over 200 jumps. Larry died in a tragic civilian parachute accident in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1994.
Cole McCarren, a Rockford native, served 2.5 years and was honorably discharged due to an injury. Before he was discharged, he had become a small weapons expert and sharpshooter. Golfing is Cole’s favorite hobby.
Vince, Larry, and Cole