[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MAJOR GENERAL (RET.) FELIX A. SANTONI

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ

                             of puerto rico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 20, 2026

  Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Major General (Ret.) Felix A. Santoni, whose passing marks the loss 
of a distinguished military leader and devoted public servant. His 
career and continued service reflect a deep and enduring commitment to 
the United States, to Puerto Rico, and to the men and women who serve 
in uniform.
  A native of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Major General Santoni entered 
military service in 1955 and served with distinction for decades across 
Active Duty, the National Guard, and the Army Reserve. Throughout his 
career, he held positions of significant responsibility, including 
Commander of U.S. Army Forces Puerto Rico and Chief for Mobilization 
and Reserve Affairs at U.S. Southern Command. In these roles, he worked 
to strengthen force readiness and to advance the full integration of 
Puerto Rican Soldiers into the Total Force.
  Major General Santoni was widely respected as a tireless advocate for 
Soldiers and their families. He consistently emphasized the importance 
of ensuring access to the resources, facilities, and support necessary 
for soldiers to successfully accomplish their mission.
  Following his retirement from military service in 1995, Major General 
Santoni continued his lifelong commitment to public service as Senior 
Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Puerto Rico. In this 
capacity, he strengthened civil-military partnerships.
  Major General Santoni's life reflects the long and proud tradition of 
Puerto Rican service members who have strengthened the Armed Forces and 
defended our Nation with distinction. I extend my deepest condolences 
to his family and loved ones and honor the memory of a soldier and 
public servant whose life exemplified duty, integrity, and service to 
country. Major General Santoni's legacy of leadership, integrity, and 
devotion to duty will endure for generations, reflecting the highest 
ideals of military and public service.

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