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Local man pays tribute to veterans through volunteering

  • Published
  • By Kaley Briesmaster
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Jesse Cardenas calls Laughlin Air Force Base his second home. His first home is the city of Del Rio.

After serving his country during World War II, Cardenas returned to the town where he was born and raised, married his high school sweetheart and began work as a supply store manager at Laughlin.

Although Cardenas put in 30 years of civil service before retiring, his service to Laughlin and the Del Rio community were far from finished.

Cardenas volunteers regularly at the San Felipe Cemetery. For the most part, he cuts the grass, trims the weeds and maintains the gravesites of fallen veterans.

"Their supreme sacrifice is what keeps me going," said Cardenas.

Cardenas is also a member of the San Felipe Del Rio Veterans Honor Guard. He founded the organization in 1979 as a way to pay tribute to fellow veterans at their funerals. The group also performs at Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies, which Cardenas plays a vital role in organizing.

Cardenas said he is honored to be able to pay tribute to his country and those who serve.

"I am so very proud of all the vets and all the men and women of all wars and conflicts," he said. "I am especially proud of those who are currently serving."

Cardenas, 83, said staying busy and doing things that he loves keeps him healthy and young, but he can also attribute his longevity and health in part to good genes. His father lived to be 102.

"My dad left a big mark. I used to ask my brothers, who will be able to top that?" said Cardenas. "I don't sit around and watch TV all the time, I just keep moving."

In addition to his volunteer work at the cemetery, and his participation in the honor guard, Cardenas said he walks and chops wood to fuel the 100-year-old gas stove that warms his home.

Cardenas' service not only keeps him going strong, but contributes significantly to his community.

"Jesse Cardenas provides an amazing service to our community and its veterans," Del Rio Mayor Efrain Valdez said. "His passion and energy are breathtaking."

Cardenas said this time of year can be tough. Although his three children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren call and visit often, he is the youngest of eight children and his siblings have passed away.

"Sometimes I wish I had a brother to talk about the old times with," he said.

Cardenas' wife passed away four years ago, but he keeps their holiday traditions alive by lacing their home with lights and playing Christmas music outside.

"It was something we did every year," he said. "The holidays can be a tough time, but I have my memories."

Cardenas said his country, his community and Laughlin have been good to him and he has no plans to stop volunteering.

"When the man up stairs stops me, then I will stop," he said.