EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso County recognized the Veteran of the Year on Monday.
Retired Staff Sergeant James H. Green Jr. was the subject of a resolution during the County Commissioners Court Meeting, where he was recognized as the El Paso County Veteran of the Year for 2025 to 2026.
“If it hadn’t been for the lord on my side, I wouldn’t be standing here today,” said Green after he took the mic in front of the County commissioners and thanked God, his wife and daughter, all those who nominated him and his fellow veterans.
Retired Staff Sergeant James H. Green Jr. recognized as the El Paso County Veteran of the Year for 2025 to 2026. Credit: El Paso County via YouTube
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“El Paso sets the example for what it means to be a community that honors services,” Green said.
Green added that as the Veteran of the Year, he plans to visit different events across the City of El Paso and the County.
Green also considers the honor a reminder to keep working for the community.
“Service is a lifelong mission,” Green said.
According to El Paso County, Green started his career in the Army National Guard before joining the United States Army active component, serving more than 20 years, including three deployments to Iraq. Green earned multiple commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Combat Action Badge. On Monday, he continues his mission of service as Commander of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 187 and through his leadership in local veteran and community programs.
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Along with Green, a World War II veteran was also recognized.
Private First Class Eliseo Silva Fernandez, who is 101 years old and, according to the County, the oldest living WWII combat vet in the Borderland, was recognized as the Honorary Veteran of the Year for 2025. Credit: El Paso County via YouTube{ }
Private First Class Eliseo Silva Fernandez, who is 101 years old and, according to the County, the oldest living WWII combat vet in the Borderland, was recognized as the Honorary Veteran of the Year for 2025.
According to El Paso County, Fernandez began his military journey in the United States Army during World War II, serving in the elite 5307th Composite Unit known as Merrill’s Marauders. Fernandez fought bravely in the China-Burma-India Theater, earning the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, and Combat Infantry Badge for his courage and sacrifice. After the war, Fernandez continued a life of service through his work and commitment to the veteran community, remaining a respected example of strength and resilience.
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