He attended Osage City Public Schools and graduated from Osage City H.S., where he played varsity High school basketball and track; he was also pitcher for the Osage City Negro baseball team. He worked as a farmer before enlisting in the 8th Army Air Force in 1942 and became an aircraft mechanic/electrician and aerial gunner on a B-17 in the 303BG; in 1943, the plane was shot down and he evaded capture for 8 months. Upon discharge in 1945, he worked as a Santa Fe Railroad electrician in Topeka, Kansas until 1951 when he was recalled to duty in the newly created US Air Force and retired from regular duty as a SMSGT at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma in 1972. He entered the Civil Service and retired as an instructor at TAFB after twenty years of service.
On November 27, 1948, he married Mary Concepción Hernandez. They had four children Phil, Marie, Clarissa, and Celeste. Salvador was devoted to being with his family. His favorite expression was “Family is everything--La Familia” and especially enjoyed working with the GI’s under his charge. He enjoyed squadron activities, hunting, fishing and esp. visiting family in Kansas with his family.
After many years of study during his 29 years in the Air Force he graduated with an associates degree from Rose State College, Midwest City and a B.A. from UCO, in Edmond, OK; He took many self improvement courses e.g. auto mechanics to aid in one of his many past times of helping people. He was also very dedicated to hobbies in the areas of art, gardening and fishing and hunting. He was an avid reader, poet and writer.
He received many Awards and Citations during his military career; for the Normandy Air Offensive Campaign: American Theater Ribbon, 2 Bronze Stars, Good Conduct medal, Distinguished Unit Badge, Air Medal with Victory Medal and National Defense ribbon.
He is preceded in death by wife Mary, his parents and 5 brothers and 3 sisters. He is survived by sister Emilia, his 4 children, 11 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren, relatives and friends.
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