CONFIRMED: Arturo Salinas, Retired, Veteran, US Air Force, Vietnam (18-26) 6 Feb 26
1701 Austin Hwy
San Antonio, TX 78218
USA
US AIR FORCE RETIRED VETERAN – VIETNAM WAR
The family of Mr. Arturo Salinas, a US Air Force (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Arturo Guillermo Salinas, 74, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.
Born on September 26, 1951, in San Antonio, Arturo lived a life rooted in service, perseverance, and devotion to his family. He was most proud to be a retired United States Air Force veteran, having proudly served 24 years and 9 months before retiring at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, a commitment that reflected his strong sense of duty and integrity. Throughout his life, he formed deep and lasting bonds with those he served alongside, holding his military and law enforcement colleagues close as an extended family.
Following the line-of-duty death of his son, Ricardo G. Salinas, in 1998 while serving with the United States Border Patrol, Arturo devoted much of his life to honoring his son’s legacy. Through tireless advocacy and determination, he worked to ensure Ricardo would never be forgotten, helping establish memorials that continue to serve the community, including Ricardo G. Salinas Elementary School, The Ricardo Salinas Health Clinic, and the Ricardo Salinas Criminal Justice Memorial Scholarship at UTSA. This journey of love and remembrance led Arturo to serve in law enforcement himself, a role he was deeply proud of, including service as a bailiff with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office.
Arturo was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He shared an especially close bond with his beloved grandsons, Pablo, and Diego — “his boys” — who brought him immense joy and pride. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, quiet strength, and enduring love for his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Elisa H. Salinas; his daughter, Elisa G. Martinez (husband Richard O. Martinez); his beloved grandsons, Pablo N. Martinez, and Diego A. Martinez; his father, Juan T. Sustaita; and many siblings, nieces, and nephews, as the eldest of twelve children.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia Sustaita; his son, Ricardo G. Salinas; his brother, Pedro Sustaita; and his nephew, Richard Salinas, Jr.
After a long journey marked by strength and devotion, Arturo is now at peace, reunited with his son, whom he loved beyond measure.
Those who served alongside Arturo are warmly invited to attend and honor his life.
WEATHER: Hi 58 / Lo 44, 0 % Chance of Rain, 63 % Humidity, Wind: 4 mph NNW
REQUESTOR: Lisa Martinez, Family SPOX
STAGING: 10:00 am, Friday, February 6, 2026
Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Park
1701 Austin Highway
San Antonio, Texas 78218
https://goo.gl/maps/fmSuvQiox3p
BRIEFING: 10:15 am
SERVICE: 11:00 am
Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Park
1701 Austin Highway
San Antonio, Texas 78218
https://goo.gl/maps/fmSuvQiox3p
KSU: 12:30 pm (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 1:00 pm – Shelter #1 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Juan “Doc” Sanguino
sanguino5366@gmail.com
FC: Alice “Cake Lady” Wagener
hwagener@sbcglobal.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers