Honoring the Memory of Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr.: A Life of Dedication and Bravery

Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr., who hailed from Salinas, California, was a committed Army Ranger who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country in Afghanistan. At the age of 24, Cerros lost his life on October 8, 2011, in Logar Province while on duty with B Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state.

Early Years and Education

Born on November 2, 1986, at Fort Ord, California, Cerros spent his formative years in Salinas. He was a student at Everett Alvarez High School, where he actively participated in the Navy’s Junior ROTC program for four years, demonstrating his early dedication to a military career. Following high school, guided by his family, he pursued higher education, graduating from the University of California, Irvine, where he majored in chemistry. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership within the university’s taekwondo club, Cerros left a lasting impression.

Journey to the Rangers

In July 2010, Cerros enlisted in the U.S. Army in Los Angeles, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration to serve his country. After completing One Station Unit Training in infantry at Fort Benning, Georgia, he successfully finished the Basic Airborne Course and the demanding Ranger Assessment and Selection Program. By March 2011, he was serving as a rifleman in B Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

Courageous Act in Afghanistan

During his initial deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Specialist Cerros’s unit engaged in a intense battle against insurgents taking cover in a compound in Logar Province. In the line of duty, Cerros was fatally injured by enemy fire while heroically exposing himself to protect his wounded platoon sergeant. Despite sustaining injuries, he valiantly shielded his fellow Rangers until a grenade explosion tragically took his life while safeguarding others from harm.

His battalion commander, Lt. Col. David Hodne, lauded Cerros as “highly skilled and a deeply respected member of this battalion.”

Tributes and Lasting Impact

In recognition of his exceptional bravery, Specialist Cerros was posthumously bestowed with the Silver Star Medal, the U.S. Army’s third-highest valor award, along with the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and various other accolades. His selfless actions potentially averted further casualties among his comrades, embodying the highest principles of military service.

Personal Life and Fond Memories

Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr. is survived by his father, Ricardo Cerros Sr., and stepmother, Deborah A. Cerros, of Salinas; his mother, Maqueirte D. Cuevas, of Gary, Indiana; his brothers, Nicholas and Marko Cerros; and his sister, Theresa Cerros, all from Salinas. Remembered by friends and family as a dedicated leader, a beacon of inspiration, and a pillar of support to his loved ones.

Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr. was laid to rest at Ridgelawn Cemetery in Gary, Indiana, where he is honored by his family, community, and the nation he served. His bravery and sacrifice serve as an everlasting source of inspiration for all who hear his tale.