SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man boasts an impressive collection of Fiesta medals.
How many medals fill up the house of Daniel Gonzalez, the self-proclaimed “Rey del Barrio?”
“Maybe 3,000 to 4,000 medals,” Gonzalez said.
In 1986, Gonzalez collected his first medal and was hooked.
“I’ve been collecting ever since,” Gonzalez said. “I enjoy all the fun of being out there during Fiesta and collecting the medals.”
Fiesta has always been a part of Gonzalez’s life. He said he remembers enjoying the events with his family as a child. His parents took the children to parades and NIOSA.
Every year, Gonzalez carries either a sash or a vest that has all his medals on it. This year's vest already weighs about 20 pounds. By the end of Fiesta, he usually collects anywhere from 300 to 350 medals.
Of all the medals he has collected, he does have one favorite.
“I used to be in the Air Force 433rd Unit, and they came out with a medal,” Gonzalez said. “I have it framed and everything.”
When Fiesta is over, Gonzalez doesn’t stop. He starts networking and getting ready for the next Fiesta.
“That’s my hobby, my joy, to collect medals," he said.