The El Monte Police Department and family of Senior Detective Armando “Mando” Santa Anna invites the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in his funeral services. We are honored to fulfill this invitation.
"Mando" grew up in El Monte loving baseball and his community. Before joining law enforcement, Mando played baseball at the collegiate and professional level and later stayed connected to the sport as a talent scout. He played second base for Upper Iowa University and the Lafayette Leopards of the Independent Heartland League.
In 2002, Mando joined the El Monte Police Department and for 24 years he proudly served working assignments in Patrol, as a School Resource Officer, and as a Senior Detective. He was respected by his colleagues, dedicated to the community he served, and carried himself with professionalism throughout his career.
For many in El Monte, the loss of Mando feels deeply personal. His work was not distant. His work impacted the neighborhoods, schools, and everyday interactions across the city he called home.
Mando was a member of the community, not just a cop, and that local connection shaped how the community saw him, talked with him, and listened to him. He was not only an officer responding to calls. He was someone who understood the community he served because he was part of the community he served.
Colleagues and local leaders have described Mando as steady, approachable, and committed to service. Los Angeles County Board Chair, Hilda L. Solis, said he dedicated his life to protecting the people of El Monte, reflecting a shared sense of loss.
El Monte Mayor Pro Tem, Viviana Longoria, called him a pillar of the community. That sentiment echoes across those who worked with him or met him through his assignments.
Within the department, Mando built a reputation for professionalism. In the community, he was known for his willingness to engage and support others. Many describe him as a friend as much as an officer.
Mando's work earned formal recognition, including a Unit Citation Award in February of 2018, yet much of his impact came through daily interactions that built long-term trust.
This story extends beyond law enforcement. Mando had a deep connection to baseball, followed the Dodgers closely with a passion rivaled by few, and took pride in sharing his experience with younger players. Those moments reflected the same positive attitude many recall from his professional life.
Community members often pointed to his consistent outlook and presence. His ability to connect across different roles helped strengthen the relationships he built over time.
Armando “Mando" Santa Anna leaves behind his loving wife, Claudia, his son Tyus, and his daughter Julianni.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this law enforcement officer. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, this is a flag line only mission at the memorial park. Please see timetable below if you wish to participate.
TIMETABLE FOR THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 20261200: Stage at Oakdale Memorial Park, 1401 S Grand Ave, Glendora, CA (waterfall entrance).
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SBMHtiCqU9YKxm9j81215: Mission briefing.
1230: Standby for the flag line upon our hero’s arrival.
Paul "PeaceKeeper" Anderson
SoCal PGR Ride Captain
(310) 717-3656
PeaceKeeper1944@gmail.com"Blessed are the Peacemakers"You do not have to be a veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the Ride Captain (RC). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
