From the Front Lines to the Front Row of History
My name is Miguel Alatorre, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.), combat veteran, and founder of Plaques for Warriors.
This project was born from a simple truth I learned both in uniform and in life:
Every warrior deserves to be honored—not just in memory, but in presence.
When my own plaque was placed on the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial—Wall DD, Side 1, Row 2, Plaque 37—I didn’t seek public recognition. But having my entire family there—my parents, my wife, children, and grandchildren—along with fellow veterans who served alongside me, and my community standing with me, filled me with a profound sense of pride, healing, and gratitude.
That moment showed me how important it is for veterans and their families to be honored while they are still here to feel it.
I realized that this kind of recognition brings healing not only to the veteran but also to the family—who have stood by them, sacrificed in silence, and carried the weight of service in their own way—and whose recognition is just as vital to the healing process.
I said to myself:
Every veteran needs to feel what I felt that day—the quiet strength of being surrounded by loved ones and my fellow veterans, knowing their sacrifice is seen and valued, even if they don’t seek the spotlight.
I’ve witnessed too many veterans, especially those from humble or overlooked communities, live their lives without this kind of acknowledgment. I’ve also felt and seen firsthand how a simple plaque—etched with a veteran’s name, face, and story—can transform lives, bring families together, and inspire communities.
Plaques for Warriors exists to give our veterans their moment.
Not after they’re gone, but while they’re still here to receive the gratitude they have earned.
This mission isn’t about politics or publicity. It’s about dignity, remembrance, and doing right by those who gave everything for this country. Whether they served in war or peace, on the front lines or behind the scenes—if they wore the uniform, their story matters.
With a proud military history behind me, and firsthand experience serving alongside heroes from all walks of life, I launched this initiative to ensure their stories are never forgotten. I carry this mission forward with the same dedication I brought to every deployment—driven by purpose, fueled by pride, and always centered on people.
Thank you for supporting this cause. Whether you donate, nominate, or simply spread the word—you are helping preserve the legacy of America’s warriors, one plaque at a time.
With gratitude,
Miguel “Commander” Alatorre
Founder, Plaques for Warriors
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army (Ret.)