MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. — The Hispanic Allies Council at Minot Air Force Base has founded a translation team in July 2024 to support the diverse community of service members and their families.
The initiative aims to provide crucial support for individuals facing language barriers, whether it’s navigating military paperwork, engaging with the local community or simply communicating with others. The team, made up of volunteers from the HAC, is available to help both military personnel and their families who may not be fluent in English.
According to Airman 1st Class Diego Colon-Santos, an HAC member assigned to the 5th Logistics Readiness Squadron, this initiative was born out of both the need for better inclusion and accessibility and a desire from the volunteers to give a community to those that might be far from home, thus ensuring that all members, regardless of language proficiency, can fully participate in the military and local community.
“As I got better at the English language, I was able to help transfer students back in high school,” said Colon-Santos. “I related to their situation and it sparked a flame in me in terms of being dedicated to helping people.”
Tech. Sgt. Ashley Villegas-Miller, the community relations officer of the HAC, mentioned how it’s also a vital tool for fostering a sense of community among Hispanic families, many of whom may be stationed far from home and unfamiliar with their new surroundings.
In addition to paperwork and official communication, the translation team also provides support in more informal settings, such as helping families connect with local organizations, understanding base services and participating in social and community events.
“As the HAC itself was coming together, it was crucial for us to make a team for the purpose of translating,” said Colon-Santos. “We knew that it is one of the most important parts of what we are, a way to communicate and connect with others.”
The initiative has not only helped improve the daily lives of non-English speaking service members and their families, but has also fostered greater understanding and cooperation across cultures within the base. As the program continues to grow, it is expected to serve as a model for other military bases with similarly diverse populations.
For Minot AFB, the translation team represents a key effort in building a more inclusive, supportive and connected base where every member can thrive.
