Gold Star Family Memorial Monument Techachapi Ca

Funds will be donated to the Four Seasons Blue Star Mothers of Greater Tehachapi Valley.

We have an ongoing fundraiser to create a Gold Star Family Memorial Monument here in Tehachapi California.

Thank you in advance for your generous support. YOU are making a difference.

In Memory of Sgt. Eriq Joel “Shank” Sapp Aquino, USMC

August 8, 2001 – December 14, 2023.

TACRON Tactical Air Control Squadron

Eriq Joel Sapp Aquino, age 22, stationed in Yuma, Arizona Marine Air Base, passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Eriq Joel was born in Los Angeles, California, to Jewel Sapp and Jose Aquino. Sgt. Eriq Joel Aquino graduated high school in Lincoln City, Oregon, and went straight to Marine boot camp. He had his 18th birthday in boot camp. He was stationed in MCAS Yuma. Because his heart was always in San Diego, he volunteered and went on 5 different deployments. He loved the outdoors as much as he loved his family and his 2 siblings, Ronny and Celina.

Since Eriq was 4 years old, he always wanted to be a Marine. He wore camo every day. He carried toy guns and climbed on everything. Every year for his birthday and Christmas, all that was on his wish list were Nerf guns and anything military-related.

He had a heart of gold and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a Mama's boy, and he was proud of it too. He constantly called home because visits were limited, especially for long distance.

Eriq's call sign was "Shank" because a fellow female Marine got assaulted by a civilian holding a shank. Eriq grabbed the shank from him and held it to his neck until police authority came to the scene. We never found out about it until after his service. There were many wonderful stories from his brothers and sisters he served with that were shared with us. I am beyond proud of him. I always told him that, and I wish I could have said more.

He was promoted to Sergeant at the age of 22; he loved the Marine Corps. I want to honor him. I want to continue his legacy and not let his death be in vain.

I want to honor and support all of our Gold Star Family.

California was home. His resting place is with our family.

Not a day goes by when you are not loved and missed.