" My grandfather was born in Mexico. And when he was a young man, he crossed the Rio Grande. After that, he served in our military and became a U.S. citizen. He ended up in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and that’s where my father was born. That was the beginning of my Mexican-American family, where they settled in Las Vegas in the early 1940s. "
- Catherine Cortez-Masto

The quote paints a vivid picture of the journey of Catherine Cortez-Masto's grandfather as he moved from Mexico across the Rio Grande into the United States, where he served his new country in the military and became an American citizen. His relocation to Las Cruces, New Mexico, marked a significant milestone for his family, leading to the birth of Catherine’s father there. This narrative encapsulates the generational transition within her Mexican-American heritage.

Beyond its surface-level details, this quote reflects broader themes of immigration, cultural assimilation, and loyalty to one's adopted country. It illustrates how an immigrant can contribute significantly to their new nation through military service and by pledging allegiance as a citizen. The story also highlights the importance of place in family history and identity, emphasizing how physical locations like Las Cruces and Las Vegas become integral parts of familial roots and personal heritage.

Catherine Cortez-Masto, a notable public figure, is the current U.S. Senator from Nevada. This quote comes from her background as a Mexican-American who traces her ancestry back to an immigrant grandfather who embraced America fully through military service and citizenship. Her narrative underscores the rich tapestry of American identity, which includes numerous stories like hers that span generations and continents.