A friend sent me the following announcement of a dedication in Socorro, May 1, 2004, for Spanish-Mexican Civil War Hero, Major Rafael Chacon.
             RAFAEL CHACON 1833-1925
        Large Window in a Dense Wall of Ignorance
History will come to life on Saturday, May 1st at 11:00 AM at Clarke Field in Socorro. In observance of New Mexico Preservation Month the BLM, in partnership with the City of Socorro will be dedicating a new sign about the life of Rafael Chacon. Rafael Chacon will be appearing in person, as
portrayed by Dr. Enrique Lamadrid in an appearance made possible by the New Mexico Endowment for the Humanities, National Endowment for the Humanities and the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. The sign base is being provided by the Socorro County Hispano Chamber of Commerce and Socorro Electric Coop.
Chacon was a witness of and participant in the entire US Territorial
Period. He was born in Santa Fe, which was then the northernmost province of Mexico.From commanding an artillery unit as a 13 year old cadet in the Mexican Army facing General Stephen Watts Kearney's invading US Army in 1846, to commanding US troops in the Indian Wars, and in the Civil War battles of Val Verde and Glorieta, Chacon's life was always full of danger and adventure. He had a distinguished military career and reached the rank of Major although he spoke only Spanish.Chacon wrote his memoirs,
providing first hand accounts of the most significant events in the
formation of what is now the State of New Mexico, as well as leaving for posterity an eloquent description of the day-to-day lives of Hispano New Mexicans. His memoirs have been described as "a large window in a dense wall of ignorance."
The May 1st event will feature music by Toby and Ermie Jaramillo, and an interactive presentation by Dr. Lamadrid as Chacon, including an opportunity for the audience to ask "Chacon" questions.
The Bureau of Land Management, Socorro Field Office, and the City of Socorro would like to extend a warm invitation for all to attend, meet Major Rafael Chacon in person and take pride in our history. In a time when heroes are getting harder to find, Chacon, known for his Legacy of Honor, serves as an inspiring role model.
     For more information call Brenda Wilkinson at 505-838-1276