Today our walk was dedicated in honor of:
Navy HM2 Justin Ray Arellano, Age 28 of Bosque Farms, NM.
Died Sep. 22, 2018
Justin was loved by so many in our community. He had a smile that could light up any room and a laugh that was truly contagious. I always knew if I was having a bad day, he was just a phone call away. He was a state champion in wrestling here in New Mexico, but he was so much more than that. He wasn’t just a great brother; he was an incredible son, uncle, and an amazing father. I wish his two kids had more time to know him, but as they grow, I see so much of him in them, from their looks to their daredevil spirit.
Looking back, it’s hard to grasp just how quickly time passes. There are still days when I pick up the phone to call him, hoping to hear him say, “Hey, sis!” Instead, I hear, “The number you are calling is no longer available.”
Justin taught me that life is short, and we can’t take anything for granted. Tomorrow is never promised. If you had a fight with your kids, partner, or parents today, ask yourself—will it matter tomorrow if they’re not here anymore?
He taught me to love deeper, to be grateful every morning for the simple gift of being alive, and to ensure that his memory never fades. Although I’d give anything to have just one more hug, one more conversation with my best friend, I know that his love still lives on in all of us.
When you see a veteran, be sure to thank them. And when you encounter a Gold Star family, honor them, too. Spread kindness and love—because that’s what Justin would have wanted.
We took Sparta Drive and walked by Kroger’s and headed east. We walked South on 127 and then took Webb Ave to East 1st Street. Our first stop was the Crossville City Cemetery where we visited some of our Fallen Brothers. We continued east and made a stop in at the Hyder Cemetery and visited some of our Fallen Brothers their. We continued east and turned north on Peavine Road. We then made a U turn and headed back south. Made a quick stop at Taco Bell for a quick break and then we took Milo Lemert Parkway. Our next stop was the American Legion. We then headed north on 127 and made a stop in at the Veterans Memorial Park. We then went West on 4th street and worked our way over to the CCHS to see the Navy Blue Angel Jet. We walked Miller Ave to West Ave and then stopped in at the Frost Cemetery to visit some of our Fallen Brothers before heading home. We covered a lot of ground today. The weather was perfect. We had a great walk. I want to thank everyone who honked, waved, and saluted in helping me honor this hero. We had 744 honks today. It was amazing. Thank you.
Navy HM2 Justin Ray Arellano will not be forgotten !
