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Nancy (Nancy Arriazola Santana) from Houston, TX
Marine
and
Nancy was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and is a proud Marine mom. She and her
husband, Yosbel, are devoted parents to five adult children—two daughters and three sons
—and doting grandparents to six. Life in their household has always been lively, and there’s
never a dull moment.
Their youngest, Angel, dreamed of serving in the military from the time he was five years old,
though he wasn’t certain which branch he would choose. On the day of his high school
graduation, he made his decision known in the most memorable way—walking across the
stage to receive his diploma wearing a bright red U.S. Marine Corps sash over his
shoulders. Nancy’s heart swelled with pride, and the tears on her face were a mix of joy and
the bittersweet emotions of watching her son embark on his journey.
Angel officially started his path as a Poolee before shipping to Marine Corps Recruit Depot
(MCRD) on September 28, 2024. He graduated on December 20, 2024, as part of Fox
Company, Platoon 2123—a moment that remains one of his parents' proudest.
Nancy found solace and support in Marine Parents on the very first day her Marine shipped
off to boot camp. As the first in their family to join the military—and the first to leave Texas—
her son’s departure left Nancy feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the road ahead.
The brief information page from the recruiter’s office outlined the basic stages of boot camp,
but it didn’t ease the sense of isolation she felt. In a moment of urgency, she submitted her
request to join Marine Parents, hoping to find guidance.
Upon being accepted into the group, Nancy shared her emotional uncertainty and was met
with an overwhelming outpouring of support from fellow Marine families—those walking the
same path and those who had already experienced it. The kindness and wisdom of this
community became her anchor, a lifeline she describes as her “life saver in deep waters.”
Marine Parents not only helped her navigate the challenges of having a loved one in boot
camp but also provided a safe and supportive space to ask questions, share emotions, and
gain clarity.
Determined to pay it forward, Nancy chose to become an active part of Marine Parents,
offering support and vital information to families going through the different stages of their
Marine’s journey. She is passionate about ensuring that no parent or loved one feels alone in
this process, just as she once did.
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