Local Hero John Juarez Honored with Military Banner

On Aug. 6, veteran John Juarez was honored with a Military Banner Installation Ceremony for his service in the Army. Juarez served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1967, prior to his death. Juarez volunteered to go in the army. According to John’s sister Mary, "his employer went to extremes to get him to stay but John really wanted to go serve for his country." During his time in the military, he was a squad leader, and was promoted to Sergeant right away. His basic training was cut in half because of his advanced skills. Juarez earned a trophy for sharp shooting, a Silver Star for heroism, two purple hearts, a Vietnam Campaign medal, a service medal, an expert marksman badge, a combat infantry badge, a good conduct ribbon, to name a few. Juarez’s banner is hung right next to where his memorial service was held, at the corner of La Cadena Drive and Olive. Mary, John’s sister, mentioned how happy she was that his banner was put up. “John gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. To me, he’s my hero,” she mentioned. She just wished their mother were there to see it; she had passed away at the age of 97. To all who knew him, Juarez was a true Coltonite. He attended Washington Elementary School and graduated from Colton High School. Right before he was killed, Juarez was scheduled to visit Colton on Dec. 9; however, he was sent on an unexpected mission on Dec. 4. According to Mary, he was selected for the mission because he was the only one who knew how to read maps correctly and navigate through the jungle and swamp lands. That was Juarez’ last mission. According to Jesse Gomez, Juarez’s brother-in-law, the mission was in Dinh Tuong Province in South Vietnam. Juarez and his platoon deployed right into enemy territory; they were shot at with rockets and immediately pinned down in bunkers by enemy fire. After throwing a grenade, Juarez’ platoon had the chance to get away but Juarez was not able to. Others in his platoon called out to him, but when they couldn't find him, they considered him MIA (missing in action). Three to five days later the platoon returned to the site where they found his body. “Out of the thirteen people in Colton that served in the Vietnam War, he was the only person that received a Silver Star,” Jesse said. The Silver Star is the second highest award for heroism. Juarez’s family is currently striving to get Juarez the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for heroism. “He definitely deserves the Medal of Honor,” Jesse said. Aside from the brave and heroic characteristics Juarez's family shares regarding their fallen soldier, Mary mentioned that he was a real prankster throughout their childhood. “He would tie me up to my mom’s big tree, and he would always call me ‘punk’” Mary shared while laughing. “He loved his Kool-Aid, and he would always have me make it for him,” she shared. “He lit up the room when he would walk in and he sure loved his parties,” Mary said. “I just miss him so much and wish he was here.” Mary still decorates her whole house on Memorial Day and Veteran’s day, just for him.