# Hispanic Heritage Month Employee Spotlight – Cindy Rodriguez

/ Published Sept. 19, 2023
RICHMOND, Va., 
***National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed yearly from September 15 to October 15. It is a time to celebrate the achievements, histories, traditions, and cultural diversity of Hispanic Americans whose heritage is rooted in 20 Latin American countries and territories.***

***In observance of 2023’s Hispanic Heritage Month, Defense Logistics Agency Aviation will feature employees of Hispanic heritage.***

**Name:** Cindy Rodriguez

**Job title:**Inventory Management Specialist

**Organization:**Planning and Support Division, DLA Aviation at Ogden

**How long have you worked for DLA?**6 years

**Please describe your job in a sentence or two.**I manage over one thousand parts in inventory for the Air Force’s F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and provide support for other aircraft parts to all branches of the military.

**How do you support the warfighter?**I support the warfighter by managing the inventory of on-hand assets needed to keep their jets flying. The Air Force has taught me the importance of mission accomplishment, and I follow this commitment whether on military duty or as a DLA employee.

**The theme for this Hispanic Heritage Month in 2023 is “Todos Somos, Somos Uno – We Are All, We Are One." In your words, briefly explain what this means to you?**For me, Todos Somos, Somos Uno, means each member of the Hispanic community is united as a whole to represent who we are with the power of one voice. Hispanics contribute politically, economically, and to the social growth in the United States. During this month of celebration, we are recognized for our efforts toward America’s future. 

**Tell us something unique about your heritage or country of origin.**Christopher Columbus discovered the island of Dominican Republic in 1492. Columbus, who was Catholic, introduced Catholicism to the people of the Dominican Republic and it continues to be one of the largest religions practiced by Dominicans. The Catholic church contributes largely to the economic success in the Dominican Republic and is known for being the largest humanitarian aid institution and provides funding to religious private schools. 

**What is one thing you'd like others to know about your heritage?**Dominicans are known for being welcoming and having a great sense of humor. They enjoy great food, dancing, baseball, and sharing with others. Dominicans are hard workers, but always allow time to enjoy life. Family and religion play an important role in Dominican culture and our strong family bonds are built on these foundations.

**Why is it important to you that we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?**Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me of the sacrifices my family made when they immigrated from the Dominican Republic to become legal citizens of the United States. My family made sure to preserve their culture with their children, so I have the best of both worlds. During this month I feel pride knowing I can enjoy different cultures while sharing mine.

Hispanic Heritage Month is also the time to celebrate Hispanic contributions to the United States. I am serving in the U.S. armed forces to protect the freedoms of a country that allows diversity and removes the barriers that hinder independence, peace, and economic success. Hispanic Heritage Month allows me to stand out as part of a country that provides for a healthy and happy life.