Paul Garcia, born on February 9, 1927 in San Antonio, TX was called to be with the Lord on February 14, 2020 at the age of 93. Mr. Garcia was a World War II U. S. Navy Veteran and worked at Kelly Air Force Base Civil Service for 25 years. As quoted in the San Antonio Light on April 15, 2015, Helotes resident Paul Garcia won praise from U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro earlier during April 2015 at ceremonies that recognized Garcia for his military service during World War II.
"Mr. Garcia is an example of the best San Antonio and America has to offer", said Castro a San Antonio Democrat. "His willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for the well-being of people around the world deserves our deepest gratitude and respect. For his courage, his selflessness and his tremendous patriotism, it is my honor to award Mr. Garcia these Paul Garcia these distinguished medals". Garcia , who joined the Navy at the age of 17 and served in the Pacific Theater, received the World War II Victory Medal, The American Campaign Medal, the Honorable Service Lapel Button and the Honorable Discharge Lapel Pin.
Garcia participated in the liberation of the Philippine Islands and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, for three months, a release about the recognition ceremony said.
Garcia was born and raised in San Antonio after his parents migrated to the city from Mexico in 1915. A spokeswoman for Castro said Garcia worked for Kelly AFB for 25 years after his military service ended. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren still reside in San Antonio.
The veteran received the honors during ceremonies at the congressman's San Antonio office on April 1, 2015.
April 1, 2015 Press Release Washington, D.C.
Mr. Garcia is preceded in death by his parents, Policarpio and Maria de Jesus Garcia; brother, Pete Garcia and Leo Garcia; sister, Rosa Garcia Sandoval. He is survived by his wife, Aurora Garcia; children, Marie Diaz de Leon and husband, David; Leroy Garcia and wife, Carrie; grandchildren, David Diaz de Leon Jr. and Frank Diaz de Leon; also, 17 great grandchildren. The Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thursday, February 20, 2020 at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino, 226 Cupples Rd. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be conducted in the chapel at 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 21, 2020. Entombment will follow in San Fernando Cemetery & Mausoleum II.
