Veterans of Foreign Wars Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. This period is set aside for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the nation's achievements, culture, and history. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 622 recognizes their own Jose Soto-Rios for his loyalty, patriotism, selfless service, and sacrifices for our Nation. Jose Soto-Rios has worked tireless for 44 years as a Soldier and civil servant in support of America’s defense.

Today, Jose Soto-Rios continues to serve as an officer in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 622 where for over 104 years they have been serving and improving the Greater Petersburg Virginia community. The VFW is a nonprofit organization comprised of military veterans who participated in overseas wars or conflicts. The VFW posts serve veterans, the military, and communities. Soto-Rios plays a vital role serving veterans and the Petersburg community.

Soto-Rios made a life-changing decision in 1957 to join the Army Reserves. He was called to active
service in October 1959 and completed infantry training in New Jersey. Then, he was assigned to the 8th Cavalry Regiment in Korea with duties as a guardian of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

In 1965, as a staff sergeant (E-6), he was ordered to Vietnam to serve as an infantry advisor to a South Vietnamese Infantry Battalion. This was the first of two tours in Vietnam. During his second tour he was wounded during combat operations, resulting in the amputation of his right leg and other wounds. He was hospitalized for one year but requested to stay on active duty and it was granted.

He was retrained as a logistics specialty and continued to achieve. He completed several schools and graduated from the U. S. Army Sergeants Major Academy in 1978. In 1980, Sergeant Major Soto-Rios retired from the U. S. Army after an exceptional career where he received numerous awards including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge and Drill Sergeant Identification Badge. Upon retirement, Soto-Rios accepted a job in government civil service where he advanced through several leadership positions in Army logistics and training.

Soto-Rios’ journey of service continues today with the VFW. He is always ready to help people in need. When asked about his life of service, Soto-Rios shared “Reflecting back on my life of service, I must confess that it has not been easy considering many factors. I was called to make numerous sacrifices and lifetime adjustments, but I did it in service of my country.” After a brief pause, Soto-Rios proclaimed, “I would do it all over again. I have no regrets.”