Local army veteran honored

PERALTA — Willie J. Chavez, of Peralta, was recently honored for serving in the U.S. Army from 1959-1965.

Chavez was presented with a certificate and a pin appreciation for his contribution to the military and the country on July 25, and for advancing the universal hope of freedom and liberty for all.

“Willie felt proud to receive this appreciation from Ambercare,” said his wife, Lorencita. “Thank you so much veteran coordinators of Ambercare and the VFW, Lennie Gurule, Chet Pino, John Tall, Tony Griego and Andrew and Gail Garcia. The time you gave my husband, Willie, with the good, warm words, smiles and prayers. They were all greatly appreciated by my husband, our daughter, Rosalie, and myself.”

The Department of Veterans Affairs has been taking care of Chavez, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in May 2021. He has been receiving home health care.

“All I can say is thank you … for appreciating and taking care of our veterans,” Lori said. “We are both taking this beautiful moment to remember in heaven, when God calls us home.”