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On November 14, 2009, a Memorial Service was held at the Hillcrest Cemetery in San Saba Texas, for Seaman Augustine Martin Vasquez. He served in the United States Navy and entered the service from Texas. He was a seaman second class and he died on Sunday November 13, 1942.

Augustine was memorialized at Manila American Cemetery in Fort Boniface, Manila, Philippines. Augustine was awarded several medals including the Purple Heart. His status is KIA.

On this date, November 14, 2009, marked the sixty seven years and one day since Augustine’s death and that of most of his shipmates who were onboard the USS Barton (DD-599), when she sank in combat against naval forces of the Empire of Japan of Savo Island, in the South Pacific.

Augustine grew up in San Saba, and he had many brothers and sisters and was young when he left his family and joined the Navy. He shall, because of his photographs, always remain young to his family.

David Calderon a USA Navy HMC (FMF/SW) Senior Enlisted Leader, spoke on behalf of Augustine and the Navy. He thanked all the veterans who were present and he explained that Augustine was and is still a Sailor, so it was fitting that Sailors be present to memorialize a fallen shipmate.

Present at the Memorial Service were: HMC (FMF) Joseph Libretto, HM1 (FMF) Jason Brosbesong, HM1 Collette Brion, HM1 (SW) Maria Pallares, HM2 (FMF) Nathan McKay, and HM3 (FMF) Brad Taylor.

These young men and women Navy Sailors have contributed in many ways to the war in Iraq and Afganistan.They have deployed into combat and felt the heart of the battle. To them, Augustine M. Vasquez was not just a sailor, but their brother, and their shipmate. A flag ceremony was held by the USA Navy and Lupe Ynostrosa was given the flag in honor of Augustine Vasquez.

Deacon Richard Menchaca and Father Gilber Gomez of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church presided over the Memorial Service. Mr. Sours, the San Saba High School Band Director, assisted Tanner Hawkins, in playing the Taps. Many family and friends attended the service. The family celebrated with a meal afterwards and shared memories, pictures, letters and stories. Oscar Barrera, A nephew to Augustine, worked very hard and diligently to accomplish the Memorial and the family were very thankful.

We do not know why his family chose not to mark his memorial, but the next generation of Vasquez’s wanted to celebrate his life and give him the honor which he deserved.

To the memory and spirit of S2C, Augustine Martin Vasquez, was welcomed home and he is no longer lost or forgotten!