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Local hero Dela Cruz laid to rest
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Posted on Apr 04 2000
A hero is gone. Retired Marine Corporal Cristino S. Dela Cruz was buried yesterday outside his home after being honored for his military service during World War II.
The Purple Heart recipient was given a 21-gun salute by U.S. Navy officers just minutes before his casket was placed in a tomb erected beside the driveway of the family’s residence in Capitol Hills.
His widow, Eugenia, and his children received from a Marine officer the United States flag that was used to drape the coffin.
The elder Dela Cruz passed away March 26 at age 73, nine days after getting the Purple Heart — the highest honor given to members of the U.S. Armed Forces — and the Gold Star medals.
Although he was not entitled to a state funeral, Mr. Dela Cruz was given services by the veterans office earlier that day. Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio and Lt. Gov. Jesus R. Sablan led the dozens of government officials, community leaders, friends and relatives who attended the ceremony.
A mass was also said at the Kristo Rai Church and the last rites were performed by Rev. Gary Bradley, after which family members paid their last respects by offering flowers.
Bed-ridden for a year before his death, Mr. Dela Cruz received his war medals last March 17 during a ceremony held at his house. Brig. Gen. R.E. Parker, commanding general of the Marine Corps base in Hawaii gave the awards on behalf of Marine Corps Commandant General James L. Jones.
He earned those honors for sustaining injuries while serving as guide to U.S. marines during their operations on Saipan against Japanese holdouts after invading the island at the height of World War II.
Last January, Mr. Dela Cruz was among the 56 Chamorro and Carolinian men who were officially recognized for their military services as native scouts during the war.
They were discharged with a rank of corporal, entitled to benefits as any other U.S. veterans.
While the late war veteran had been honored for his heroism and courage, the CNMI state funeral law does not cover individuals like Mr. Dela Cruz with extraordinary achievements, other than high-ranking government officials, elected leaders, judges and justices, as well as fire and police officers killed in the line of duty.
