What does it mean to be a veteran?

New Mexico Valor has one question for veterans. It is: “What does it mean to be a veteran?”
No wrong answers. Just veterans reflecting about their service to our country.

New Mexico Veterans Reflect on Their Military Service


The state of New Mexico has a diverse population and the people who decided to serve in the military is no different. This video is a compilation of veterans from all eras talking about their service to the United States. It features World War II to current conflict veterans. We had the honor of meeting and hearing some pretty amazing stories. Visit Facebook.com/newmexicovalor for more content.

World War Veteran II Harry Williams

Marine Harry Williams was a machine gun squad leader in WWII and fought in many battles in the South Pacific. One of the most important battles to the United States was Iwo Jima. Mr. Williams speaks about the famous flag photo being raised.

Medal of Honor Recipient Hiroshi H. Miyamura

Medal of Honor recipient Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura talks about his service to the United States. He is US Army veteran who earned his Medal of Honor in the Korean War. His medal was top secret till he was released from a POW camp.

Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. Leroy Petry

This video interview was conducted in 2011 just a few weeks after Master Sgt. (RET) Leroy Petry was awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor in Afghanistan. You can read his citation by going to http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/petry/

Sister of PFC Juan Griego


Private First Class Juan Griego of the 17th Infantry Division was killed in action on September 27th, 1950. He stepped on a mine and was killed. His sister, Madeline Tapia talks about his sacrifice for his country.

Parents of Captain Tamara Long-Archuleta


On March 23, 2003, a pararescue crew, “Komodo 11″ took off and was enroute to rescue 2 Afghan children. The helicopter crashed and killed all 6 on board. Captain Tamara Long-Archuleta was on board as a co-pilot. Captain Long-Archuleta was from Belen, New Mexico. She was one of New Mexico’s brightest. She graduated high school at 16 and was in college soon after.She was a 3rd degree black belt and was involved in her community. She rose through the ranks to achieve her dream of becoming a combat rescue pilot.

Senseis Richard and Cindy Long talk about their daughter. They are holding one of the last photos of her and the flag that was used in her memorial service.

A scholarship fund has been established in her honor. Visit http://www.belengojuryu.com/scholarsh… for more information on the scholarship.

World War II Veteran Wishes We Thank the Fallen


World War II veteran Harry Williams reflects on his service in the Marine Corps and remembering the ones who did not make it back. Mr. Williams was on Iwo Jima and seen many of his brothers die on the battlefield. Find out more of his story by going to facebook.com/newmexicovalor