FORT BLISS, Texas – Those who consider the military always have a reason for joining. Whether to continue a Family tradition of service, or to see the world, the decision is life changing.
“I remember growing up and seeing Nicaraguans killed, or jailed for protesting against the government. At that time it wasn’t a safe place to be,” said Staff Sgt. Orlando Alvarez, a parachute rigger assigned to the Group Support Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). “Deciding to leave was the toughest decision I’ve had to make in my life.”
Alvarez said he knew what he was leaving behind, he also knew leaving would provide him with something more.
“U.S. military provided me the opportunity my country could not,” he said. “If I had to do it again, I would do it in a heartbeat.”
When Alvarez left Nicaragua and inquired about joining the military, he was told joining would be near impossible, he said
“But, I didn’t give up,” Alvarez said.
Although he spoke little English, in 2013 he moved with his wife, Lucila, to the United States, and joined the Army.
Alvarez’s main reason for joining was to eventually be in a position to give back to the country that took him in as a refugee, while affording him the freedoms he and his Family enjoy today.
During his five years of service in the U.S. Army, Alvarez was promoted several times and attended a variety of military schools including the Special Operations Combative Program. He is now assigned to and since being assigned to 7th SFG.
Although he joined the Army later in life, his goal is to serve 20 years and retire.
“You cannot be afraid to follow your dreams,” Alvarez said. “If I had let what people said discourage me from joining the military and coming to America, I don’t know where I would be today. I don’t even know if I would be alive. But, I am thankful for what the Army has afforded me and I will continue to serve my country proudly.”
Alvarez’s journey from Nicaraguan refugee to U.S. Soldier is his American dream. He plans to continue his life of service while setting an example for his children.
“This country has provided my Family with many opportunities,” he said. “I am grateful for that, and I am willing to fight and protect it. One day, I hope my children will do the same.”