Carrying His Father’s Legacy: Rolando Montana’s Run to Remember

For Rolando Montana, remembrance has been part of his life for as long as he can remember.

Rolando is the son of SGT Rosendo Montana, a highly decorated United States Army Pathfinder  who was killed in action on 15 April 1970 during the Vietnam War. Rosendo was a husband to Mary and father to Rolando and his older brother, Rosendo Jr.

One of Rolando’s earliest memories is seeing his father’s picture and medals displayed on their bedroom wall.

More than five decades later, Rolando continues to carry his father’s legacy forward.

“I am able to help others to keep our losses alive & to include them in honoring their sacrifices,” he shares.

Rolando is a Vietnam-era Gold Star child and has remained deeply connected to communities dedicated to remembering those who served. Through Sons and Daughters In Touch (SDIT), the wear blue community, and other organizations, he has found opportunities to honor his father alongside others who understand the importance of remembering.

His connection with wear blue has grown over the years. He has participated in the DC Community Run, volunteered with the organization, and stood along the Marine Corps Marathon course holding flags with his children. One of his favorite memories is sharing that experience with his older brother, Rosendo Jr., and family members alongside the honor posters.

“Priceless,” he says.

Now, Rolando is taking on the Marine Corps Marathon through the Gold Star & Survivor Endurance Program.

For him, the program is another opportunity to say his father’s name, remember his service, and help ensure that the lives of fallen service members are not forgotten.

“If we do not then they are forgotten.”

Training also gives Rolando time to reflect. He describes running and physical activity as an opportunity to think about his father, what he experienced, and the decision he made to return to Vietnam.

“I always think of him & what he had to go through & his decision to go back to Nam. Try to uphold his strength.”

Today, Rolando is also thinking about what it means to pass remembrance on to his own children. He sees them as a driving force and wants to show them one way to honor the grandfather they never had the opportunity to know.

“My kids are a driving force so that I can continue to show them one way to honor their grandfather.”

Through his training and his continued involvement in the remembrance community, Rolando hopes to keep his father’s legacy present—not only for his own family, but for others who may never have known him.

For Rolando, being part of the wear blue community is simply “Life Changing.”

And when asked what message he would share with other Gold Star and Surviving family members, his answer is direct:

“To reach out. Many organizations are out there.”

Rolando will carry his father’s name with him to the Marine Corps Marathon finish line, continuing a commitment he has made for years: to remember, to honor, and to make sure those who gave their lives are never forgotten.

Honor and Remember with us, SGT Rosendo Montana, 15 April 1970.