CHICAGO  –   The National Hockey League’s Chicago Blackhawks honored U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Alberto Vega, assigned to the 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, during their Hispanic Heritage Night home game versus the Florida Panthers, October 25, 2022.

The game honored Hispanic heritage and the service of Hispanic American Soldiers.

Vega was recognized on the jumbotron, with retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Frank Gutierrez, during the game, and rendered a salute, on the ice, during the playing of the National Anthem.

“The experience was surreal,” said Vega. “Feeling the love from everyone in the stadium was very impactful!”

Vega began serving as a Cannon Crew Member, 13B, and now currently serves as an Information Technology Specialist, 25B. Across his 10-year career, he has served on two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve.

In reflecting on his service, Vega credits the Army Reserve with meeting key goals in his life while developing valuable experiences.

“The Army Reserve has impacted my life and career tremendously,” said Vega. “The Army Reserve has not only allowed me to gain tremendous experience, but it also has helped me to obtain my personal life goals.”

Vega’s top awards include two Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, and the Navy Achievement Medal.

Vega also had a message for Hispanic Americans who are considering military service.

“I would like to let other Hispanic Americans who are thinking about joining the Army Reserve know to go ahead and do it,” said Vega. “The Army Reserve gives you great experiences, it’s very rewarding and it will give you the tools that you need to become successful in life.”