ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – A new exhibit at the Rockford Ethnic Heritage Museum focuses on the Medina family’s legacy in the U.S. military.

More than 50 people attended the opening presentation of the new exhibit about this Hispanic family who served in the U.S. military for three generations.

“My grandfather, my uncle and my twin brother are all here, honored with pictures and medals, so you can see their accomplishments and what they actually accomplished,” Kyle McCarren said.

Rockford native Cole McCarren served for two and a half years before being honorably discharged due to injury.

Cole’s grandfather, Vince Medina, is a Bronze Star recipient and served in the United States Air Force for 25 years, beginning in 1949.

And Cole’s uncle, Larry Medina, served in the United States Marine Corps for 13 years before a tragic accident in Hawaii took his life in 1994.

“There was so much I didn’t know about my uncle, and it was gratifying to learn what a hero he is and an example to young Hispanics who settle and grow up in this community of what we can do when we stand up as patriots and serve our countries,” said Cole’s cousin John Guevara.

The public was invited today to hear stories about veterans told by relatives and others close to the Medina family.

Photos, medals and other artifacts were also on display to provide a clearer picture of veterans’ time in service and civilian life.

“It’s great to see Latino heritage celebrated for its patriotism and, yes, it feels good to be part of this family,” McCarren said.

Memorabilia from the exhibition will be on display throughout the month of November in the museum’s Hispanic Gallery, available to all visitors.

The Ethnic Heritage Museum features five other ethnic galleries: African American, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian and Polish. All are also open to visitors.

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