Sgm Florencio Cruz-Santiago, Us Army, Retired

SGM Cruz was born in Lajas, Puerto Rico to Sergio Cruz Torres and Cruz Maria Santiago Baez on October 11, 1940. He went to Catholic primary and secondary schools in his hometown. He married Celia Carmela Camarena deCruz on June 23, 1961 in Balboa, Republic of Panama while stationed as a soldier in the Canal Zone. He briefly attended seminary and university to become ordained as a priest before he felt the call to enlist in the U.S. Army. He served as an Infantry soldier for 30 years. He was a veteran of 2.5 combat tours in the Republic of Vietnam and retired honorably with the Combat Infantry Badge, Drill Instructor Badge, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, 2-Meritorious, 2-Commendation; and multiple overseas ribbons and awards. In retirement, he focused on frequent travel, to spend quality with family in Puerto Rico; Republic of Panama; Aurora, IL; and Tampa, FL. He was an ever-present Husband, Brother, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and Friend physically and virtually. There was nothing he would not do for someone in need, and was very generous with his time and resource with churches.

SGM Cruz is survived by his wife, Carmela and three sons: Reynaldo Cruz (Monica), Reinier Cruz (Terri), and Rene’ Cruz (Silvia); and three Grandchildren, Christian (Ashley), Carissa, and Joshua.

SGM Cruz will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors on Friday March 31, 2023. Services will begin at the Fort Myer Chapel at 12:45 PM and continue at the graveside where honors will be rendered. A reception will follow in the Fort Myers Officer’s Club.