HERNAN Jose AMEZCUA

From a community that instills strength, purpose, and pride comes the story of one of our own,

Hernan Amezcua, who stepped forward to serve when his nation needed him most.

Born in Chicago and raised in San Diego, Hernan carried a sense of purpose from a young age. At 20 years old, inspired by the events of September 11 and a lifelong desire to serve, he enlisted in the United States Army, leaving for Fort Knox just weeks later.

He served with the 3rd Infantry Division, 3rd Squadron, 7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment (Crazyhorse) as a Mechanic and Specialist (E-4), deploying twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

During the 2003 invasion, Hernan and his unit crossed into Iraq under darkness, guided only by night vision and the red lights of vehicles ahead. After days without sleep and enduring severe dust storms, they fought near the Euphrates River in one of the largest engagements of the invasion, standing alongside tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles as the battlefield erupted around them, the ground shaking beneath them with every blast and the sky lit with fire and steel.

Through it all, he built a brotherhood that remains unbreakable.

After his service, Hernan faced the challenges of transitioning home, later working as an Army recruiter and earning his degree in Healthcare Administration.

He met his wife, Mirna, and together for 18 years they have built a life rooted in love, strength, and resilience. She has stood beside him through the unseen wounds of war, carrying that weight with him. Through it all, she has been the foundation of their love and the strength behind their journey forward. Together, they are the proud parents of Itzel, Jared, and Gael.

His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Combat Action Badge, Presidential Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.

Today, we honor not just a soldier, but a husband, a father, and a proud member of our community. A man who answered the call, carried the weight, and returned home with a story of service, sacrifice, and strength that will live on for generations.

Welcome home.

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