My father earned his citizenship by serving in the Army during World War II. He devoted his life to caring for our nations veterans at a VA hospital in Buffalo, New York. That desire to serve fellow Americans propelled my four siblings into medical careers, too.

Tom Perez’s quote reflects on the profound influence of his father’s life and career on his own and his siblings' paths. His father earned his citizenship by serving in the Army during World War II, which not only shaped his own identity but also instilled a strong sense of duty and service in the family. This connection to military service and the commitment to serve fellow Americans became a central theme in Perez’s upbringing, inspiring a legacy of service that extended into his siblings’ careers. His father’s dedication to caring for veterans at a VA hospital in Buffalo, New York exemplifies the selflessness and commitment to the well-being of others that deeply impacted Perez’s values.

The quote highlights how his father's work caring for veterans at the hospital became a model of public service and compassion for Perez and his siblings. This sense of service was not just about fulfilling a job but about making a meaningful contribution to the lives of others. Perez suggests that his father's influence was so strong that it motivated him and his four siblings to pursue medical careers, continuing the family’s dedication to healthcare and service.

The connection between his father’s military service and his later career in the medical field is crucial to understanding the core values Perez holds. His father’s example shows that sacrifice and service to others were more than just acts of duty; they were lifelong commitments that became central to the Perez family’s identity. For Perez, this desire to serve Americans, especially veterans, was a driving force behind his own career and his approach to public service.

Originating from Perez’s reflections on his family’s legacy and his own career in public office, this quote underscores the theme of service that has shaped his personal and professional life. It highlights the ways in which family values, particularly those rooted in military service and caring for others, can profoundly influence the decisions and paths of future generations.