This Hispanic Heritage Month, the Intrepid Museum proudly celebrates the contributions of Intrepid and Growler crew members with roots in Central and South America, Mexico, Spain, and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean. These sailors carried their rich cultures with them as they served, creating a vibrant and diverse community aboard the ship.
The Spanish-speaking world spans continents, blending traditions and stories that sailors who have roots or are from Puerto Rico, Mexico, Spain, Venezuela and beyond brought to life aboard Intrepid. Among this cultural tapestry, Spanish became a shared language, a familiar sound amid the hustle of ship life. Sailors would gather after long days to relax, swap stories, and connect in Spanish or “Spanglish,” bridging gaps and forging bonds that transcended borders.
Bilingual crew members played a vital role in navigating new waters—both literally and culturally. Whether docking in Spain, Panama, the Dominican Republic, or Puerto Rico, their language skills turned strangers into friends. By breaking down barriers and dispelling stereotypes, these sailors became ambassadors of goodwill, especially during the tense years of the Cold War. Their efforts showed that diplomacy wasn’t just for diplomats—it happened in the streets and markets of foreign ports, one conversation at a time.
Agustin Ramos Jr., who served on Intrepid from 1964 to 1966, recalls how his ability to speak Spanish helped him connect with locals in ways that made his time aboard even more meaningful. His story is a reminder of how language can unite people, even in the most unexpected places.
Today, Intrepid serves a new mission as a Museum in one of the world’s most linguistically and culturally diverse cities. With more than 1.8 million Spanish speakers in New York City and countless visitors from across the Spanish-speaking world, the Intrepid Museum continues to be a place where stories from all walks of life are shared, celebrated, and remembered.
Credit: Collection of the Intrepid Museum. Gift of Agustin Ramos Jr. P2013.161.19
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