Valencia County veteran honored at Kirtland Air Force Base

ALBUQUERQUE — Kirtland Air Force Base hosted a re-dedication ceremony for Marquez Park Friday, May 16, honoring the enduring legacy of Lt. Gen. General Leo Marquez, a native of Peralta, and graduate of Belen High School and New Mexico State University, where he was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force through NMSU’s ROTC program.

Marquez is the “Godfather” of the Air Force’s aircraft and munitions maintenance communities, which is the main mission of the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland Air Force Base. During his 33 years on active duty, he earned the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit and a reputation for getting things done regardless of red tape.

Today, an Air Force award bears his name. The Lt. Gen. Leo Marquez Award recognizes military and civil service aircraft, munitions, and missile maintenance personnel who perform hands-on maintenance or manage a maintenance function.

In September 2012, the installation renamed its Bicentennial Park, “Marquez Park,” adorned with a centerpiece memorial in honor of retired Gen. Marquez, who died Dec. 30, 2011, at age 79. Years of high-desert weather took a toll on the structure, inspiring the restoration effort that preceded the ceremony. Nearly 40 of Marquez’s family members attended the re-dedication.

Col. Michael Power, 377 Air Base Wing and Kirtland installation commander, served as the guest speaker, reflecting on Gen. Marquez’s profound impact and lasting inspiration.