Univision salutes Hispanic American Heroes.

Univision Communications, Inc. announced the launch of a comprehensive initiative in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month to salute Hispanic American veterans and those serving in the armed forces. “Nuestros Heroes” (Our Heroes) features an extensive series of moving vignettes designed to recognize the valor and achievements of Hispanic men and women who have distinguished themselves in the U.S. Armed Forces throughout American history.

“Hispanics have a strong tradition of serving our country honorably,” said Joe Uva, chief executive officer, Univision Communications Inc. “This campaign provides a window into the tremendous contributions of the millions of Hispanic Americans who have served our country and is one small way that the Univision family is saying thank you.”

Hispanics have served in every war since the founding of America. Today, nearly 11 percent of soldiers serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are of Hispanic origin and according to the U.S. Census there are more than one million Hispanic veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that up to 500,000 Hispanics fought in World War II. Hispanics also served in unprecedented numbers during the Vietnam War, where one in two Hispanics who went to Vietnam served in a combat unit, one in three was wounded in action and one in five was killed.

Vignettes from the “Nuestros Heroes” campaign will premiere as program content on Univision’s popular morning program “Despierta America” (Wake Up America) and will immediately transition into stand alone capsules.

“Nuestros Heroes” will showcase a range of decorated soldiers, from the three surviving Hispanic recipients of the Medal of Honor, the highest award for valor in action against enemy forces which can be bestowed upon a soldier; to recipients of the Purple Heart, awarded to soldiers who are wounded or killed in battle. Univision produced and developed the vignettes which will air through the end of the year with support from the U.S. Army and Sears.