People from Brooks County served the United States, and some sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf War during Operation Desert Storm while preserving and protecting the ideals of a free nation. Those named are 2LT Jerry J Johnson, who died on May 15, 1966; SSgt. Oscar Garcia, who died on Oct. 28, 1966; Sgt. Ernesto Cantu of Encino, who died on Nov 20, 1967; Sgt. Vitalio Vela Jr., who died on Feb 14, 1968; Sgt. Patricio Maldonado Jr, who died on Feb 28, 1968; and Pvt. Domingo Rodriguez Jr., who died on Mar 6, 1968. Americanism is defined as an unfailing love of country, loyalty to its institutions and ideals, eagerness to defend it against all enemies, undivided allegiance to the flag, and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and posterity.