HOHENFELS, Germany -- The Hohenfels Military Community gathered recently to witness the renaming and dedication of Building 10 in honor of a former Hohenfels garrison deputy commander who left an indelible impression on the community and everyone who knew him.
The Chris J. Saucedo Soldier and Family Readiness Center opened after a moving ceremony where family members, friends and former co-workers eulogized a man who epitomized the noncommissioned officer creed of putting his Soldier's needs before his own.
Saucedo enlisted in the Army at the age of 31, and defied all odds as he quickly went up the ranks to sergeant major. He continued serving his country for another 15 years, including 10 as deputy to the garrison commander in Hohenfels from Feb. 1999 -- July 2009. He passed away Aug. 31, 2011.
"Today we will memorialize the contribution of Chris (Saucedo) by dedicating this wonderful and important community building in his name," said John Cavanaugh, USAG Garmisch garrison manager. "So why this building you ask? I think the name says it all. Soldiers and families. That's what Chris was about every day here at Hohenfels. He gave his full energy in taking care of those folks while he was here. Every member of the Hohenfels community -- Chris' community -- must pass through these doors, so it is here where Chris' spirit and vision will live on."
"This is quite an honor for this family," said Saucedo's wife of 37 years, Teresa Saucedo. "He always loved Hohenfels. This was his community, and for this to be taking place is just awesome."
"As a leader he was highly committed to the lives of every person in Hohenfels, and as a person he was a true inspiration by never letting anything keep him down. Every single day he made a difference in someone's life. And he's still doing it to this very day," said Stayce Downing, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation director.
Downing added that the FMWR will now host a yearly golf tournament in Saucedo's name, the first held last month on July 26.
The family unveiled the new sign in front of the building, and then cut the ribbon for the crowd to venture inside where a plaque and photos adorn the wall, honoring Saucedo and his dedication to Hohenfels.
"I cannot begin to tell you the overwhelming flood of emotions that overcame me when I learned of this dedication ceremony," said Marissa Saucedo, daughter of Chris J. Saucedo. "I am truly humbled and honored today, and I thank you all for recognizing my father and his character as someone to be emulated and never forgotten."
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