09/30/2025
✨ Honoring the life and legacy of Francisco J. González — proud Puerto Rican, U.S. Marine, Naval Aviator, and commercial airline pilot.
On his way to Korea during the conflict, his test scores led him to be pulled from infantry and selected as a Naval Aviation cadet, training at flight school in Pensacola. After the war, he attended Columbia University before pursuing his lifelong dream of aviation. He went on to become a commercial airline pilot with Caribair (the Airline of Puerto Rico), and later flew with Eastern Airlines until his retirement.
Born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, Francisco was raised on the island and later in New York City. A proud Puerto Rican, he was deeply passionate about family and military history. His grandfather, a patriot, is honored at El Morro for being imprisoned under Spanish rule. As a Boy Scout, Francisco once visited his brother’s ship, the USCG Cutter Unalga, and was honored to meet its captain while stationed in San Juan.
His knowledge of World War II and the anti-submarine campaigns against German U-boats was vast. His brother and cousin each served aboard cutters in San Juan—tragically, his cousin’s ship, the USCG Cutter Acacia, was sunk by a German U-boat.
As we reflect during Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor Francisco’s courage, sacrifice, and legacy—along with that of countless Puerto Rican servicemen whose contributions strengthened both their island and the Nation. ✨
🎥 Francisco also wrote and narrated the documentary “Tribute to a Sailor”, preserving his story so future generations understand the vital role the Caribbean has played in U.S. military history.
