Ferdinand C. Santiago passed away on August 2, 2020 at the age of 83 in San Antonio, Texas. Born in Humacao, Puerto Rico on April 7, 1937, he is preceded in death by his parents, Benito Santiago and Carmen Gonzalez Santiago; his grandson, Justin Ferdinand Santiago; his 2 sisters; and his 3 brothers.
Ferdinand is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Oralia Santiago; his children, Simon Santiago, John Albert Santiago and his wife Betty Santiago, Carmen Santiago and Hortense Santiago; his granddaughters, Emaly, Jacklyn and Catalina; his sister, Martha Santiago; and his numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who loved him.
Ferdinand was a proud 20 year veteran of the United States Army. In May of 1954 at the age of 17, he enlisted in the Army National Guard of Puerto Rico. Later he was inducted into the United States Army on October 18, 1956. He completed several overseas tours including Korea, Panama, Alaska and the Republic of Vietnam; 101th Airborne, 82nd, came out wounded 173rd from Vietnam. He was the recipient of: the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal (4) for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity, the Korean Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal- First Class Citation, the Vietnam Service Medal with 4 bronze service stars, the Purple Heart which was awarded for a wound sustained while in action against an enemy or as a result of hostile action, the Air Medal distinguishing his meritorious achievement while participating in sustained aerial flights, in support of ground combat forces and activity participated in MORE than 25 aerial mission over hostile territory, the Army Commendation the Medal of heroism in the Republic of Vietnam, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Marksman Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Riffle Bar, the Parachutist Badge, a Brave Eagle Coin symbolizing his willingness to give above and beyond his call of duty and the Bronze Star Medal for distinguishing himself by outstanding meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam.
Due to the restrictions on public gatherings, the services at St. James the Apostle Catholic Church – 907 West Theo Ave. 78225 – will be limited to 70 people in the building. Face coverings will be required to be worn at all times.
The family will be receiving friends for a Visitation at St. James on Tuesday, August 18 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM. On Wednesday, August 19, the Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 AM with Interment to follow at San Fernando Cemetery II – 746 Castroville Rd. 78237.
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