Local veterans attend funeral of local WWII hero

A local World War II veteran who would not leave his platoon behind has been laid to rest.

ABC-7 was at the services for Ernesto Ruiz on Tuesday. He was 92 years old. Those in attendance at Fort Bliss National Cemetery hung their heads low as they listened to stories about Ruiz. His granddaughter spoke about his patriotism and faith in his fellow brothers. She also shared a story about his time in combat close to the end of the war.

“He was in his foxhole with the rest of his platoon and a bomb fell right next to him,” his granddaughter told ABC-7. “And his job there was to carry the ammo for the machine gun. His partner died and a lot of his platoon. He picked up the ammo box and the machine gun, and continued the job.”

Ruiz was offered an airlift home, but he declined, saying he could not leave the 6 men behind. Even with his injuries, Ruiz continued his mission until the war ended a few days later. Ruiz went on to receive a purple heart for his service.

Ruiz leaves behind a wife, 6 children, 15 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.