Maj. Ramon J. Mendoza Jr.
May 14, 2023
Private 1st Class James Miller
May 28, 2023
By Eric Sandy, Sun News Sun News on October 24, 2011 at 12:00 PM
…Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Michael Barrett was present to illuminate the devoted life Ruiz lived during his 20 years. Born in Guatemala City in May 1985, Ruiz and his family immigrated to Cleveland in 1991.
Though he was in the process of naturalization, he never became a U.S. citizen.
“I came to know of his tremendous character and his tremendous courage,” Barrett said. “He defended the Constitution against all enemies. That is a great American defined.”
Barrett explained that Ruiz had worked his entire life to earn a spot in the United States Marines Corps. After seeing a commercial exploring the life of “the few, the proud,” a 6-year-old Ruiz knew where his life would take him.
“David lived his life right and to the fullest,” Barrett said.
Some of Ruiz’s fellow Marines joined the ceremony to further illuminate the man’s character and commitment to the country and people he cherished.
“One doesn’t have to dig very deep to realize the love David had for his country,” Cpl. David Lara said.
Lara mentioned that, for Ruiz, everything was a teaching moment and an opportunity to learn more about the world.
“This is perhaps one of the greatest lessons he taught me,” Lara said, looking back on the little moments that comprised their brief friendship. “I’m grateful for him sharing that with me.” …
