Coltonite Tony Placencia Honored with Military Banner

Coltonite Tony Placencia was honored by his family, friends, and his hometown of Colton with his very own Military Banner Installation Ceremony this past August. Although Placencia passed away in 2013 at age 91, his family gathered at the installation ceremony to memorialize his service in the Army with his very own military banner that can now be seen hanging at the corner of Laurel and Teresa Street in Colton. Placencia enlisted in the Army in July 1942 and served for four years until January of 1946. According to his son Lynn Placencia, he served as a Staff Sergeant and had his own troop while serving overseas in Europe and on the front lines during World War II. “He really enjoyed serving… it was something that he always wanted to do,” he shared. “He was a very proud veteran.” He mentioned that received a myriad of accolades during his service including: an American Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and the European Africa Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and more. After being wounded during his service, he was sent to the 82nd General Hospital where he met his future wife Elsie “Pat” Placencia, according to Lynn. They later had three children Lynn, Anthony, and Rodney Placencia. Anthony and Rodney both followed in their father’s footsteps and served in the Army, as well. Placencia was born and raised right in his hometown of Colton. “Our family has long ties in Colton… we have so many friends and family here,” Lynn said. “Our whole family pretty much grew up in South Colton.” Lynn added, “The day of the ceremony was great… the family was able to get together,” Lynn shared. “It’s such a beautiful banner and I’m so glad we were able to get it right by my house.”