James Rodriguez, Honored by the Community by Kayla Sheldon - City News Group, Inc.
View Upcoming Events View Your Local Sales

Community Calendar

JULY
S M T W T F S
28 29 30 01 02 03 04
05 06 07 08 09 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31 01
View Events
Submit Events
directory

James Rodriguez, Honored by the Community

By Kayla Sheldon, Community Writer
June 4, 2014 at 09:08am. Views: 95

James Rodriguez, veteran of the Vietnam War, was recently recognized by his family and community with one of the most prestigious honors bestowed on a Coltonite; a military banner. On May 15th, he was surprised with a City of Colton Hometown Military Banner Installation Ceremony where a banner with his name and picture was hung in honor of his time served for this country. “I wasn’t even dressed for it,” Rodriguez said while laughing. “It was a very emotional and heart-warming day,” he shared. Rodriguez was drafted in 1968 and received an honorable discharge in 1970. He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division. He shares, "I was proud to have served. It was my obligation." After his training, Rodriguez volunteered to partake in jump school for training in Fort Benning, Georgia. Concluding his jump training, Rodriguez traveled to Vietnam and remained there for a year and thirteen days. During his time, he was rewarded with a Parachute Badge. “War is a terrible thing to go through, it’s not like the movies. It’s not fun. It’s scary,” he said. A banner honoring him and his service for this country was definitely something he deserved. The Vietnam War was very controversial. With so many protesters against the war, James, along with other troops, weren’t welcomed back with open arms. “There was no one there to give you a pat on the back, no thank you, nothing,” James said. Therefore, hanging this banner in his honor meant that much more to him. “It was absolutely heart-warming,” he said. James would like to extend his appreciation to the Colton Women's Club, who sent Rodriguez a care package during a time of need. James expressed that it was very uplifting to receive the package during one of his more struggling times. The banner hanging ceremony was a very special day for the Rodriguez family. James mentions, “It is because of God and the prayers of my parents that I am home today.” In addition to the planned festivities, James mentioned, “The Colton staff did a great job. They were awesome and did everything to accommodate us.”

Related Articles

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group AI Generated Image

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 07:59am. Views: 250

California ballot drop box symbolize the upcoming municipal election and opportunities for residents to participate in local government. The election provides an opportunity for community members to help guide decisions affecting neighborhood improvements, economic development, and city services for years to come.

Photo Courtesy of: City of Anaheim Storm Drain & Sewer Maintenance

By William Cortez, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 07:59am. Views: 203

Storm drain infrastructure helps manage rainwater and reduce flooding in residential neighborhoods. Recent planning efforts have focused on identifying long-term improvements that can better manage stormwater, reduce localized flooding, and support future development throughout the city.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group AI Generated Image

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 07:59am. Views: 223

Mom and daughter help cleanup their community. Residents regularly work alongside city staff, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses to support programs that improve parks, beautify public spaces, and bring neighbors together.

Photo Courtesy of: AI Generated Image Greated by ChatGPT

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 220

The iconic California Theatre glows in downtown San Bernardino as visitors arrive for an evening performance, highlighting the historic venue's continuing role as a centerpiece for arts, culture, and community events.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT.

By William Cortez, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 221

Volunteers of all ages work together in a San Bernardino community garden, planting fresh vegetables and flowers while promoting healthy living, environmental stewardship, and stronger neighborhood connections.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT.

By William Cortez, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 273

A classic Route 66 scene celebrates San Bernardino's place along the historic highway, where vintage Americana, local businesses, and community pride continue to welcome travelers from around the world.

Photo Courtesy of: TME Photography by Titan Mom Elvira

By Titan Mom Elvira, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 269

Welcome to the celebration! Parade volunteers proudly welcomed the community to Moreno Valley's 4th of July Parade celebrating 250 Years of Freedom.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group AI Generated Image

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 252

City crews and firefighters inspect vegetation management efforts designed to reduce wildfire risks around neighborhoods.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By William Cortez, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 313

Children and parents enjoy trampoline attractions, climbing areas, and interactive games inside a modern indoor family entertainment center.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

July 8, 2026 at 08:00am. Views: 114

A family prepares emergency supplies and evacuation essentials as part of a wildfire readiness plan. Inland Empire wildfire, CAL FIRE, Riverside County Fire, San Bernardino County Fire, emergency preparedness, wildfire prevention, Inland Empire news, California fire season

Photo Courtesy of: City News group AI generated Image ChatGPT

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

July 1, 2026 at 01:33pm. Views: 658

A California Highway Patrol officer monitors traffic as drivers travel along a busy Inland Empire freeway.

Photo Courtesy of: https://www.instagram.com/reel

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

July 1, 2026 at 01:33pm. Views: 1089

A member of the Jessie Combs Foundation team performs maintenance under the hood of a vintage Chevrolet Blazer during the 2026 Hemmings Great Race, showcasing the mechanical skill and teamwork required to keep historic vehicles running throughout the cross-country rally.

--> -->