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U.S. Army Southern European Task
U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Elisban A. Bazan, maintenance manager, 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward (TSC-FWD), poses for a photo at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Sept. 25, 2024. The 79th TSC-FWD provides trained and ready logistics units for worldwide operations and deployment. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ashley Fletcher)
VICENZA, Italy - National Hispanic Heritage Month offers a time to celebrate the cultures, histories and achievements of Hispanic Americans across the United States and within the military. U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Elisban Bazan, a maintenance manager with the 79th Theater Sustainment Command-Forward, currenting assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), shares his story of immigrating to the United States and becoming a mentor in the Army.
Bazan’s story is one of resilience, adaptability and pride. Born in Lima, Peru, Bazan moved to the United States in the early 2000s. He found himself transitioning between two different cultures.
In 2004, he answered the Army’s call to serve after hearing radio advertisements.
His journey started with language barriers and cultural adjustments; however, Bazan remained committed. “I remember hearing on the radio, ‘Join the Army! We need you,’” Bazan recalled. “It was 2004, and with the war going on, the advertisements were everywhere. I said ‘I’ll do it,’ and I was all in.”
His early days in the Army were challenging, particularly with language barriers. His perseverance paid off when he graduated second in his class at advanced individual training (AIT), despite early struggles with pronunciation and language comprehension.
“I remember in AIT, reading was a struggle. But I told myself ‘I don’t care. I’m going to keep going.’”
Bazan continued. His unique perspective as an immigrant influenced his interactions with fellow Soldiers, especially those facing similar challenges. Bazan says he understands the struggles of others, whether they are Hispanic or from another background.
Inspired by the mentors who guided him, he dedicates himself to helping others overcome, offering them purpose and encouragement.
“I’ve had great leaders who inspire me, and now I try to do the same for others. Seeing soldiers I've mentored thrive years later is one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” he said.
Reflecting on his own career, Bazan offers words of encouragement to Hispanic Soldiers and future recruits.
“The opportunities in the Army are endless,” he emphasized. “I went to school, earned my degrees—all paid for by the military. For those thinking of joining, there’s so much to gain. Yes, it takes hard work, but the benefits are worth it.”
Currently serving within SETAF-AF, Bazan emphasizes the unit's inclusivity and diversity. He explains that the diversity creates a welcoming environment where everyone’s background is respected. This diversity makes the organization stronger, allowing different perspectives and backgrounds to come together for a common mission.
“SETAF-AF is one of the most diverse organizations I’ve been part of,” Bazan said. “In my section alone, we have Soldiers from all over - Mexico, Guam, Kentucky - and I even met another Soldier from Peru the other day.”
As National Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, Bazan’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions and resilience of hispanic Soldiers within the U.S. Army.
While Bazan is proud of his heritage, he is equally proud of his role in serving his adopted country, wearing both flags-American and Peruvian-with honor.
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