Mario Carazo

United States Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Mario Carazo was killed in action on July 22, 2010, during combat operations in Afghanistan.

From a young age, Carazo was fascinated by aviation and dreamed of becoming a pilot. As he grew, that passion expanded into a desire to serve his country and give back to his community. Throughout his youth and high school years, he dedicated himself to his goal of attending the Naval Academy, pursuing a life of military service as a pilot—a goal he successfully achieved. As the child of immigrants, Carazo valued education deeply and saw it as essential to reaching his future ambitions. He carried this belief into his service, sharing these values with the men and women under his command. He tutored Marines and sailors, offering guidance and support to help them plan their careers and achieve their own goals.

Throughout his distinguished military career, Carazo was recognized for his extraordinary bravery, leadership, and dedication to duty. He was awarded the Purple Heart for the sacrifices he made in combat and earned numerous other honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal. His commitment to service was further reflected in the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. These recognitions stand as a testament to his courage, honor, and unwavering devotion to his country.

In the summer of 1989, Carazo met his future wife, Jennifer. She was home from college, and he was visiting Pensacola during his summer travels with the Naval Academy. From the very moment they met, she knew he was extraordinary—unlike anyone she had ever encountered. His intelligence, kind heart, and genuine compassion set him apart. His commitment to serving others and making a difference was evident in everything he did. That same devotion carried into his life as a husband and father. He shared countless special moments with his family, and cherished the time spent with his children. He lived for them. Though his career was very important, his children always came first—they were his world, and that love only deepened Jennifer’s admiration for him. Carazo’s character, intelligence, and immense heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Carazo’s legacy lives on through the Sugar Bear Foundation, which supports Gold Star families and children of fallen United States military personnel through educational initiatives focused on academics, careers, financial literacy, and health. Deeply valuing the power of education, Carazo believed it was the key to building a promising future, and the foundation reflects that conviction. Jennifer serves as the Sugar Bear Foundation’s CEO and President, carrying forward his vision and ensuring his dedication continues to change lives for generations to come.

United States Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Mario Carazo is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer and their beautiful children, Mario and Milla.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Carazo family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.