Carlos L. Baez

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Carlos L. Baez tragically passed away on October 21, 2024, after a courageous and intense battle with service-connected cancer.

Born on December 23, 1978, in New York City to Rafael Baez and Antonia Navarro, Sgt. Baez moved several times throughout his life, living in Connecticut before eventually returning to Yonkers, New York. Described by his mother as a natural leader with a lively spirit, Sgt. Baez demonstrated a strong interest in visual media from a young age, often using cameras and camcorders. He was highly regarded by classmates and friends and played football at Saunders Trade and Technical High School. After graduation, he relocated to Troy, New York, to play football at a junior college before returning to Yonkers, where he launched a successful career as a barber and quickly established himself as a top professional in the area.

Sgt. Baez’s dedication to service began shortly after the September 11 attacks, when he joined the United States Marine Corps on November 25, 2001. He honorably completed his service, which included participation in the Iraq invasion and deployments in support of operations in Afghanistan, and retired as a Sergeant on November 24, 2005. During these years of service, while sacrificing his life and comfort in defense of his country, he was also away from his beloved daughters, Zaniya and Keishlyann. Though distance separated them at times, his love for them remained constant, and his commitment to building a future they could be proud of guided him through every challenge.

Following his military service, Sgt. Baez transitioned to the Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, working in the Office of High Threat Protection from 2011 to 2018. During this time, he played a critical role in protecting members of the clandestine service in multiple classified locations. Alongside his professional achievements, he remained committed to continuous learning, earning both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA.

In 2013, Carlos found love and shortly thereafter married his beloved wife, Yahaida, on March 2, 2014. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two wonderful sons, Carlito and Calvin. His children were his pride and greatest joy, and he carried the title of father with deep honor and responsibility.

Sgt. Baez leaves behind a legacy of dedication, love, and unwavering spirit. Throughout his life, he built meaningful connections with people across the United States, many of whom became like family to him. He deeply cherished the unwavering support, love, and loyalty he received from his brothers and sisters in arms, especially during the most challenging moments.

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Carlos L. Baez is survived by his loving wife, Yahaida; his children, Zaniya, Keishlyann, Carlito, and Calvin; his mother, Antonia; his brothers, Rafael, Randy, and Francis; and a host of aunts, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Rafael.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Baez family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.