COLUMBUS — The John Everett Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Robert Ranken Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recognize Eddie and Debra Hernandez for their outstanding American flag display at 1616 Montezuma Street in Columbus.
Eddie volunteered for the U.S. Marine Corps, at Camp Pendleton, California He served as an administra- tive clerk and office manager, processing orders for Marines being transferred to duty in the Western Pacific to Vietnam.
In October 1967, Eddie received orders to report to the 1st Marine Air Wing Headquarters & Helicopter Squad- ron 1 in Da Nang, Vietnam.
There, he processed orders for Marines preparing to return to the United States. After four years, he returned home and received an Honorable Discharge.
Later, Eddie joined the Texas Army National Guard through a program titled “Try One for the Guard.” He reenlisted repeatedly, serving 16 years in the Guard. With his four years in the Marine Corps, his 20 total years of service earned him a military retirement pension and bene- fits.
During his time in the Guard, the U.S. entered the Gulf War. His unit prepared to deploy, but the conflict ended before their deployment.
Following the attacks of 9/11, Eddie’s unit expected deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. They received orders for active duty in December 2002. They were assigned to protect Air Force bases throughout Texas under a contract between the U.S. Air Force and the Texas Army National Guard. They served on active duty for two years and received an Honorable Discharge from the U.S.
Army on March 15, 2005.
Service members who serve during times of war or national conflict are awarded the National Defense Service Ribbon. Eddie proudly wears three-for Vietnam, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism. His flagpole stands in his yard as a tribute to that service.
Eddie also proudly flies the American flag to help his grandchildren understand the importance of national pride and patriotism. Eddie and Debra have four children and nine grandchildren who have attended or currently attend school in the Columbus ISD system. CISD has done an outstanding job educating students about the importance of recognizing our veterans and appreciating the sacrifices re quired to preserve our values and way of life.
