World War II Honoree

Santiago Gonzalez

Branch of Service

U.S. Navy

Hometown

Laredo, Texas

Honored By

Douglas M. Alford

He wanted to join the military and was sworn into the U. S. Navy at the military induction center at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas. He received his basic training at the Naval Recruitment Center San Diego, California. After basic training he was assigned to the Pacific fleet. He saw action in the following campaigns; Saipan, Leyte, Luzon and Formosa and the buildup of the invasion of Japan. After the surrender of Japan he was transferred back to San Diego and then to Fort Sam Houston where he was released with an Honorable Discharge. He received the following commendations: The Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations Medal, the Philippine Liberation Medal, THE Good Conduct Medal. He was fortunate to not been injured during his many tours.