Congressman Dave Min Honors First Marine Corps Brigadier General of Mexican Descent
Congressman Dave Min recently honored retired Brig. Gen. Mike Aguilar during Hispanic Heritage Month. Aguilar is recognized as the first American of Mexican descent to achieve the rank of brigadier general in Marine Corps history, a milestone he reached over 25 years ago. Aguilar, a 76-year-old Los Angeles native, expressed gratitude for the recognition but emphasized that his achievement highlights the opportunities available in the United States for anyone with a dream, regardless of their background. He served in the military as a pilot and continued his service beyond retirement by leading efforts to establish a museum dedicated to Marine Corps aviation as president of the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation. Aguilar's father, a World War II veteran, had encouraged him to aim for the rank of major, a goal Aguilar surpassed significantly.
