Welcome to the Latino Lorain Veterans Story Walk. This story walk was created by the Latino Lorain History Project—a collaboration of the Lorain Historical Society, El Centro, Oberlin College, and community members. Special thanks go to the Lorain Veterans who contributed their oral histories, shared their memories and photographs, and gave feedback on the development of this project. 

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The citizens of Lorain are proud and grateful for the service of ALL our veterans. The purpose of the Latino Lorain Veterans Story Walk is to shed a greater light on the military experience for those who have not served in the military – whether they are family members of veterans or are considering joining the military themselves. It is intended to help the wider community have a better understanding of the military experience from the perspective of those who have served. This story walk uses interviews conducted in 2022 and 2023 with Latino Veterans to help make the “unknown known” about their military service.  

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Latinos have served in the United States military since the American Revolution. Motivations for serving in the military are complex. Some sought equality by “proving” equal status as American citizens. Others were motivated by patriotism for the country or a desire to continue the family legacy of military service. Some enlisted out of necessity, and others sought the benefits of education and economic opportunity. Some enlisted by choice, while others were drafted.