Tatyana Latimore to become 4th generation in family to serve country

HOUSTON – This Black History Month, a Kingwood family is celebrating more than a century of service in the United States military.

Ernest Latimore’s grandfather served in World War I and his father served in World War II. Latimore served 20 years in the Navy, which included time in Vietnam. During his time in the military he held several positions, including Navy commissioner, division officer, department head, recruiter and instructor.

This month, Latimore’s daughter, Tatyana, will become the fourth generation in the Latimore family to serve in the military, as well as the third generation and first female to serve in the Navy.

“I think it’s giving back. We live in a great place and I’m just doing my part,” Tatyana said.

“I am so happy. I am very proud,” said Ernest Latimore. 

The 20-year-old, who graduated at the top of her class at Porter High School, says the military has always been a big part of her life. “My dad always used to tell me stories, and my favorite movie is 'Top Gun,'" she said.

She admits she had some reservations about following in her family’s footsteps. At first, she was concerned about the physical training and she says she was also concerned she would have to cut her hair. But after doing some research, Tatyana says she is now ready to enlist and travel the globe. “I’d love to go to Spain, Japan, Italy, of course Hawaii,” Tatyana said.

After she gets sworn in, Tatyana will head to Illinois for nine weeks of boot camp. After that she heads to “A” school in Pensacola, Florida.

“It makes me very proud, number one, to be an American, African Americans, and I’m proud that my family has also contributed to the history of the United States,” Earnest Latimore said.