Statue unveiled for fallen Army Ranger Ricardo Cerros, Jr.
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) - The legacy of a fallen soldier and Salinas native is remembered today. The unveiling of a statue next to the Veterans' Bench at Central Park in Salinas will remind all of his story.
“It means a lot. I wanted to say a lot more, but I don't think I can,” said a teary Sean Patterson, close friend of Ricardo Cerros JR. “JR, I miss you. I love you. We're all here.” An emotional ceremony recognizing Ricardo Cerros Jr., a Salinas native who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States military.
“He was treating his wounded platoon sergeant who had already been shot a few times, and unfortunately, an enemy grenade came out of the breach, and my buddy had a split-second decision to make.” He recalls how a grenade rolled slowly towards Cerros and his sergeant. “JR chose to shield his wounded platoon sergeant, taking the full blast of the grenade.”
Sean was part of the same unit as Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr. On the 12th anniversary of Cerros’ death, Sean embarked on a 450-mile walk from Dana Point, California to Salinas in honor of his fallen friend. Today, funds gathered from that walk made this statue possible.
“This is everything to me because this is gonna be long. It's gonna be here long after I die, after we all die, it's gonna be here forever,” said Sean. Both Sean and Cerros's parents received a replica bust at today's ceremony. A statue that many today mention will serve to educate future generations.
“That statue will be up, long after we're gone,” Tony Virrueta adds. “This will be up for children who are on field trips to come out and see this and know that they have a local hero who was born and raised right here in Salinas.”
The family also received recognition from Supervisor Alejo's team. Salinas Mayor Dennis Donahue also paid his respects. For Viruetta, this day marks recognition for the veteran community of Monterey County.
“This is a great day in history here in Salinas and Monterey County that we do love our veterans and we especially love those who have fallen, because as long as we speak their names, they're not really gone.”
Special Officer Ricardo Cerros’ statue will remain open to the public at Salinas’ Central Park. Allowing for all to recognize him and other fallen heroes.
