Military Background

Santos’ career choice was to be expected as his father and his seven older brothers (four Vietnam combat veterans) that served in the US Army and two sisters served in the Air Force branches of the United States military. Specifically, Santos was inspired by his older brother, Seferino, retired (US Army). In Vietnam, Seferino (d. 2003) was a member of the long-range reconnaissance patrol, or LRRP, a small, well-armed reconnaissance team that patrolled deep in enemy-held territory.

Santos’ military service began with his active-duty years from 1975 to 1990 in the US Army. After the September 11, 2001, terrorists’ attacks in the US, Santos was motivated to return to military service. In 2002, he enlisted in the Army Reserves. In 2008 Santos was able to return to active-duty service. In 2011, he retired after 23 years of combined Army Reserves and US Army active duty.

Veteran Service Organizations Life Member:

Disable Veterans (DAV)

Veterans of Foreign War (VFW)

American Legion

American Legion positions held: Post Commander and Vice Commander Rhein Main Post GR05, Vice Commander, Department of France Commander, Vice Commander, Sgt of Arms