TSgt Israel del Toro - Our first Military Mirror

"Israel Del Toro gets an apology after being refused entry".

Israel Del Toro", when I see, hear, or read Mr. Del Toro's name; it always triggers me.

Recently an older post on Facebook popped up on my timeline reading a COVID-19-related headline from July 2, 2020, based on an article on the Military Times website; Mr. Del Toro's name came to my attention.

Although it was an "old" article, I was upset reading this story because Mr. Del Toro is a true American hero who never should have been treated this way, not even during the 2020 lockdowns. Reading his name reminded me of how honored I was with our first official Military order to honor this remarkable person.

As I wrote in my first blog, all mirrors we make have a unique story. So for this second blog, I like to share this remarkable story with you.

Screenshot: Military Times Website

Our first Military Mirror

On March 20, 2012, we received a phone call from Mr. Craig Sard, based at Tyndall Airbase in Florida. Mr. Craig was in charge of a project to rededicate the Airey NCO Academy class 12-3 to Purple Heart Medal recipient TSgt. Israel Del Toro Jr.

Mr. Craig was looking for a 20-inch round, laser-engraved mirror with the U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party Crest. Surrounding the crest are Mr. Del Toro's famous words:

"I'm still an NCO in the Air Force. I've still got a job to do. Just because I got hurt, if I use that as an excuse not to do my job, I think that's a cop-out."

Of course, we could do that! To be honest, it was an absolute honor to serve him!

UFAF TACP crest in Mirror to honor Tech Sgt Israel Del Toro Jr.

UFAF TACP crest Laser Engraved into a Mirror,
to honor Tech Sgt Israel Del Toro Jr.

Who is Tech. Sgt Israel Del Toro?

Although I never heard from Mr. Israel Del Toro, his words made me curious, so Mr. Craig explained to me;

"TSgt Del Toro was severely burned on more than 80 percent of his body when an improvised explosive device struck his Humvee. He was on a mission with the Army in Afghanistan, attempting to ambush Afghan insurgents. Google him, and you will find his remarkable story on the internet".

That made me even more curious, so I Googled Mr. Del Toro's name, and the story blew me away. I was touched, it made me cry, and although I've never met TSgt Israel Del Toro in person, he will be in my heart forever.

Even after so many years, I'm proud, honored, and humbled to share this story with you. So I will never forget our first military mirror.

A BIG HUG to all of you, and please STAY SAFE
Debbie

Documentary: Enlisted Character Development Series
MSgt Israel Del Toro - A History of Resilience