Manuel Suchil Honored For More Than Military Service

Manuel Aldana Suchil, born Nov. 21, 1931, was recently honored with a military banner installation ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 19, sponsored by his own son, Colton Councilmember Isaac Suchil. Manuel Suchil passed away on July 2, 2009 at the VA Medical Center in Loma Linda - but his memory lived on as his family, friends and other loved ones honored his service through the posting of his military banner high above the streets in Colton. The banner in Manuel's name hangs on La Cadena Drive near Valley Boulevard, in front of Jumbo Savings. Manuel, a lifelong Colton resident, graduated from Colton High School in 1948 and played an active role within his community, both prior to and after his military service. In 1949, nearly a year after graduating high school, Suchil enlisted into the US Marine Corps, where he fought in the Korean War. “My father taught us to respect our country, even at a time while he was growing up as a Mexican American, which was tough to be treated equal,” shared son Isaac Suchil, who helps lead his city as a Colton councilmember. In 1953, Manuel was honorably discharged. “My father served his country with honor,” Councilmember Suchil said. As he returned back to his home in Colton after serving his country, Manuel continued to serve as he played an instrumental role in his hometown community. Throughout his life, Manuel served as a Colton Parks and Recreation commissioner, coached Ken Hubbs Little League baseball, and was on the Colton Mercury Baseball Club team as they became league champions for the Sunset Belt and Citrus Belt. “He was a good man and loved by his children and grandchildren,” Councilmember Suchil shared. Manuel’s wife Maria Garcia Suchil, his three sons Isaac, Longene and Mark, and his daughter Lisa are all filled with pride for Manuel, for his service, his dedication, and for the unforgettable impact he had on their lives. Daughter Lisa was unable to attend the installation ceremony because, as a service member in the United States Navy, she is stationed on the East coast. Councilmember Suchil added, “My father was very proud of her when she enlisted.”