Eugenio Saenz
Parents: Santana and Eloisa Saenz
Married: Isabel Cervantes January 22, 1966
Children:
Eugenio Saenz Jr. (Born December 10, 1966)
Bio:
Military Bio:
Eugenio Saenz Sr. began his military journey in September 1963 when he joined the U.S. Army Reserve at the age of 19. He arrived at Fort Polk, Louisiana, for Basic Training on November 22, 1963—the same day that President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. After completing training as a truck driver, he returned to Alice, Texas, where he sought employment in the transportation industry and accepted a position as a helper with the Jax Brewing Company.
On January 22, 1966, he married the love of his life, Isabel, beginning a partnership that would span decades. Their first child, Eugenio Saenz Jr., was born later that year. In June 1967, only seven months after becoming a father, Eugenio received unexpected orders to report for active duty. What was initially thought to be a package notification turned out to be a military activation notice requiring him to report to Fort Meade, Maryland, within five days.
Following specialized training in tactical convoy operations, including navigating trucks through jungle terrain and creek crossings while under potential hostile fire, Eugenio was deployed to Vietnam. He served with the 1st Corps, 1st Logistical Command in the northern region of the country, providing vital transportation and logistical support during the war.
Even while serving overseas, family remained at the center of his life. During his journey to Vietnam, he wrote a heartfelt postcard to Isabel from the airplane, sharing his hopes that one day they would travel together and sending extra postcards for his young son to enjoy. His letters home reflected the deep love and devotion he felt for his family throughout his deployment.
After faithfully serving his country, Eugenio returned home in 1969 as a Vietnam veteran. Like many veterans of that era, he came home during a time of national division over the war. There were no parades or public celebrations—only the quiet challenge of transitioning back to civilian life and reuniting with his family.
Seeking new opportunities, Eugenio moved his family to Houston, Texas, where he began a long career as a professional truck driver with Red Arrow Freight Lines. He and Isabel later welcomed two daughters, Eloisa Sheri Saenz in 1971 and Erin Elaine Saenz in 1976, completing their family of five.
Eugenio dedicated more than four decades to the trucking industry before retiring in 2010. His life has been defined by hard work, military service, devotion to family, and unwavering commitment to those he loves. Since their marriage in 1966, he and Isabel have shared a remarkable journey together, building a legacy rooted in love, perseverance, and family values.
Saenz Reunion 