August 9, 2020
Author: Sylvia Gutierrez
Jaguar Birthday Memorial #9
‘Journey to the Top’
Throughout Jaguar’s childhood, he looked forward to joining the Marines after high school just like his father. However, it was the Army that pursued him first and Jaguar felt it was the right decision for him. His passion was to be an infantry rifleman, but he also had a strong interest in becoming an Army Ranger. Jag’s eyes would light up and he would salivate when talking about Special Operations. Following his enlistment, Jaguar’s military career took different turns due to an injury, his marriage to Gabby, and delays in military orders. Nevertheless, the fall of 2012 found him in selection for the Green Berets. He became a part of Special Forces in 2015 after a grueling 3-year process. He was proud to fulfill his calling when he made it to the top. Jaguar hadn’t told us anything about graduation until the last minute, therefore, I was the only who could take the time off to attend the event. I was so proud of him and took pictures. While standing outside following the ceremony, Jag notices me excitedly engaged with my phone. “What are you doing mom!?” he asks. “I’m gonna posts my pics,” I responded. He quickly bursts my humongous bubble. “No, you can’t do that.” He proceeds to tell me not to post anything about his graduation – not today or possibly even ever. I was absolutely heartbroken! How was it that I couldn’t share with our family and friends this major accomplishment of his? How could he not allow me this special moment? Completely disappointed, and except for a few private messages he allowed me to send, I honored his wishes and never shared anything publicly about his profession for at least the next couple of years.
Well it’s been 5 years since his graduation, and I’m finally going to share some of my photos from that special day on February 5, 2015. The day he achieved his goal and answered his calling. Almost exactly five years later on February 8, 2020, he made the ultimate sacrifice.
FindJoy 