The ongoing government shutdown has extended into its fourth week, causing disruptions in various services, including those for deceased veterans. These interruptions have had a profound impact on families hoping to honor their loved ones.
Honoring a Veteran’s Dying Wish
Florencio Davila, a World War II veteran from Waco, Texas, had a simple, yet significant final wish: to be buried with full military honors. Having dedicated his life to helping others, Davila’s request was put in jeopardy by the government shutdown. His granddaughter, Sonya Guerrero, encountered a significant hurdle when she contacted the U.S. Army for funeral arrangements. “As we were making the preparations, we were told due to the government shutdown, military funerals are not happening right now or taking place right now,” Guerrero shared with KSDK NBC 5 in Waco. “I was devastated. That was his one and only request, and to hear that was not going to take place, I couldn’t let it not happen.”
Determined to fulfill her grandfather’s wish, Guerrero contacted multiple government offices. Her persistence paid off when the Casualty Assistance Center at Fort Hood, Texas, stepped in to ensure Davila received the military honors he deserved. The National Defense Act of 2000 supports such honors for veterans.
Community Support
Davila’s community rallied to support the family in covering the costs associated with the funeral service. “The community came together, and I want to tell other families don’t not do anything about it,” Guerrero urged. “Fight for your loved one and what they wanted and their wishes. Make it happen for them. My grandfather will receive the military honors he wanted.”
A Life of Dedication
Florencio Davila’s life was marked by his commitment to others. His son, Irie Cuevas, described him as a man who “cared more about other people than himself.” During the mid-1940s, Davila joined the military while still underage and served in the Pacific Theater as part of the 632nd Tank Destroyer Battalion in the Philippines. He was a gunner in the tank, contributing to the efforts during World War II.
Born on September 15, 1926, in Marlin, Texas, Davila served from 1945-1946 before returning home. He married his wife in 1949 and built a life in Marlin. He was instrumental in founding the League of United Latin American Citizens in Marlin and worked as a truck driver for Gifford-Hill Co. A member of Faith Walk Church, Davila received numerous honors for his service, reflecting his belief in the Bible verse to “give honor where honor is due.”
Davila’s favorite quote, fittingly from General Douglas MacArthur, was: “Old soldiers never die; they just fade away.” This ethos of service and dedication was evident throughout his life. His final resting place will be beside his wife, Mary, at Waco’s Oakwood Cemetery, after 63 years of marriage.
