HR0959 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0959 LRB102 29156 LAW 41098 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Sergeant Major Florencio Cruz-Santiago, U.S. Army (Ret), who passed away on September 28, 2022; and

WHEREAS, SGM Cruz-Santiago served his country gallantly as an infantry soldier for 30 years, including two and a half combat tours in the Republic of Vietnam; he retired honorably with the Combat Infantry Badge, the Drill Instructor Badge, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Commendations, and multiple overseas ribbons and awards; and

WHEREAS, In retirement, SGM Cruz-Santiago focused on his family, traveling to Puerto Rico, Panama, Aurora, Illinois, and Tampa, Florida; and

WHEREAS, SGM Cruz-Santiago was an ever-present husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend; he was known for being willing to do anything for someone in need; he was also generous to various churches with his time and resources; and

WHEREAS, SGM Cruz-Santiago's family has asked that he be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., an honor reserved for those who have served the United States with honor; and

WHEREAS, SGM Cruz-Santiago is survived by his wife, Carmela; his sons, Reynaldo (Monica) Cruz, Reinier (Terri) Cruz, and René (Silvia) Cruz; and his grandchildren, Christian (Ashley), Carissa, and Joshua; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Sergeant Major Florencio Cruz-Santiago, U.S. Army (Ret) and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of SGM Cruz as an expression of our deepest sympathy.