Biography

Sergeant First Class Alfred G. Gonzalez is a Korean War veteran whose life reflects courage, resilience, and dedication to both country and community.

Originally assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, SFC Gonzalez was redirected to the 2nd Infantry Division when reinforcements were urgently needed. Despite initial concerns about his limited English, he quickly proved himself as a capable leader. Rising from corporal to platoon sergeant, and even serving as acting First Sergeant, he earned the trust and respect of the men he led.

When his combat service ended, SFC Gonzalez returned home to face the challenges of transition that many veterans know all too well. With quiet determination, he rebuilt his life raising a family, pursuing his education at San Diego City College, and establishing a successful 26-year career as an engineer at General Dynamics. He later continued his work with SAIC until his retirement, contributing to projects that strengthened America’s defense.

SFC Gonzalez’s dedication to service did not end with his military career. As a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Association Color Guard, he traveled extensively across Southern California to ensure that veterans were laid to rest with dignity and that their families received the honor they deserved. On one occasion, he participated in eight separate veteran funeral services in a single day, testament to his steadfast devotion to his fellow service members.

Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, his greatest source of pride is his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, his legacy of perseverance and love continues through the generations.

Today, SFC Gonzalez’s service will permanently be enshrined with the placement of his plaque at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial in La Jolla, California. This moment not only recognizes his life and sacrifice but also inspired the creation of the Plaques for Warriors program ensuring that other veterans, too, can be honored while they are still with us.

At 93 years young, Sergeant First Class Alfred G. Gonzalez remains a living example of what it means to serve with honor, lead with humility, and live with devotion to both family and country. His name, now etched in stone atop Mt. Soledad among America’s finest, will forever remind future generations that freedom is not free and that true service extends far beyond the battlefield.