FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico – Maj. Cesar Irizarry, the new Puerto Rico Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion commander, welcomed his daughter into the PRARNG.
Pfc. Irizarry Torres enlisted as a human resources specialist (42A) while completing her senior year of high school.
Maj. Irizarry said service runs deep in their family. His father served in the military during the Korean War, and his son, Airman 1st Class Cesar Andres Irizarry, serves in the Puerto Rico Air National Guard.
“Recruiting truly starts at home,” said Irizarry. “It’s an honor to see Anamaris make this commitment to service, and as her father, I couldn’t be prouder of her choice to join our organization and make a difference. With both of my children now serving, I feel an even greater sense of pride in our family’s dedication to this nation.”
Irizarry expressed her excitement and sense of purpose as she followed in her father’s footsteps.
“This feels like the beginning of something meaningful,” she said. “Joining the Guard and having my dad’s support means everything. I look forward to contributing to the PRARNG and to the experiences ahead.”
Maj. Gen. Miguel A. Méndez, adjutant general of Puerto Rico, congratulated Irizarry, acknowledging the importance of family in the Guard.
“We are deeply honored to have Pfc. Irizarry Torres join our ranks, and we recognize the commitment this family has shown to service,” said Méndez. “This is a proud moment, not only for Team Irizarry but for our entire organization, as we continue to grow our Guard family and build on our mission to serve Puerto Rico and the nation.”