Bill Clinton: “Lydia Mendoza's unique musical career spans most of the entire course of the 20th century. She recorded her first song…”

“Lydia Mendoza's unique musical career spans most of the entire course of the 20th century. She recorded her first song in a San Antonio hotel room in 1928. More than 70 years and a thousand songs later, her legacy is as wide and deep as the Rio Grande valley. Lydia learned much from the oral tradition of Mexican music that her mother and grandmother shared with her. In turn, she shared it with the world, becoming the first rural American woman performer to garner a large following throughout Latin America. With the artistry of her voice and the gift of her songs, she bridged the gap between generations and cultures. Lydia Mendoza is a true American pioneer, and she paved the way for a whole new generation of Latino performers, who today are making all Americans sing. Colonel, read the citation. [Lieutenant Colonel Everhart read the citation, and the President presented the medal.]”