Spencer Fordin

Tularosa native Tina Cordova brought New Mexico’s downwinders’ story to the United Nations, describing generations of cancer and loss linked to the 1945 Trinity nuclear test. As co-founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium, Cordova recounted her family’s medical history, advocated for federal compensation, and connected New Mexico’s experience to nuclear-affected communities worldwide.

Nearly 74 years after Sgt. Willie Estrada died saving his tank crew in Korea, his family continues seeking the Medal of Honor for Alamogordo’s war hero. Already awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously, Estrada’s legacy is preserved by his brother Pete, nephew Mario and the American Armed Forces Museum, which will honor him throughout September.