This is for John D. Nichols.

Thank you very much for all your information.  I have a clearer understanding of what my father may have done and your help is priceless.  I may have never met you, but I feel like you are family. Thank you once again and take care.

Sincerely,

Bernadette Marie Flores

This is for Bernadette Marie Flores;I may be your distant cousin, John D. Nichols son of James and Elma Nichols. I just finished 20 years in the Marines Corps and you asked if I had any knowledge of what a corporal is or does, as this was the rank of Willy in the Marine Corps. The rank of Corporal is the first rank of the non-commissioned officer ranks and comes with much respect and responsibility. Right below Sergeant, the Corporal is given responsibility over a team of four to five men, but traditionally in the Marine Corps because of its small-unit tactics, the Corporal is responsible for a squad, about twelve men. Willy would have been the Marine in charge and responsible for the well being of his men reporting anything to do with them to the next ranking non-commissioned rank, the Sergeant. Here's a piece of Marine Corps lore and tradition. The red stripe or "blood stripe" on the side of the trouser pant seam is given only to the non-commissioned officer starting with the rank of Corporal. This stripe was believed to be given in remembrance for all the blood shed from Marines in the Mexican-American War. Another thing is, at this starting rank, the Corporal rates what is called the legendary Non-Commissioned Officer or NCO Sword. This is the only weapon still used by a military branch, the Marines. It is used only in ceremonies, parades, and funeral services.
Bernadette, I hope this small piece of information helps paint the picture of what Willy was in serving his country. God Bless you, and I'll talk to you again soon.

John D. Nichols
USMC (retired)

My father William Flores at times misunderstood but will always be remembered for unique qualities as a son, father,and brother.  Many blessings Dad as you are able to rest in peace with our Heavenly Father.  Your dedication most importantly your calling a gift from God gave you so much pleasure to greet the Body of Christ with your Church. Thank you God for blessing you a gift to let go of yourself to model on how you embraced many families. YOU will be missed in many ways beyond your imagination to know true love while you here. As your child thank you for being my father, shepherding me to remember the sacrament of Baptismal and loving me in your own special way. God Bless.

I have very fond memories of Willie always with a smile.  He was always the friendly face when we arrived on sundays at church at Christ the King.  Years later when attending the Corpus Christi Cathedral he had moved he was there as well always greeting my mother and I.  We as a family (The Gonzalez, Perez & Rios families) will miss Willie dearly.  Our condolences go out to the Flores family.  Mrs. Flores and the girls were a part of our family as well.  Willie will be missed by all who loved him. May he rest in peace with the angels.

My deepest condolences to the family, which in a more distant sense, is my family too. My name is John David Nichols, son of James R. Nichols (Bob). My Mother Elma shared with me the sad news today. She tells me I met Willy many years ago when I was very young. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I too carry the Marine torch as Willy, his brothers, and my Father did. I serve as a Staff Sergeant finishing up my 20 years of service. I would've loved to be there with all of you to reconnect with a great and honorable family. I love you.
Staff Sergeant John D. Nichols
U.S. Marine Corps

OBITUARY

William Nichols Flores

February 9, 1931 – August 26, 2010

Funeraria del Angel - Memorial Holly

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