Colonel Tristan S. Briones, M.D. 

Colonel Tristan Santa Elena Briones, M.D., age 81, peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Peoria, Arizona. Tristan was born in Camarines Sur, Philippines on November 19, 1942, to the late Elena Jose Santa Elena and Jose Cortez Briones, M.D. 

Tristan spent his childhood years in Camarines Sur and attended Ateneo Jesuit High School in Naga City. Tristan then earned his medical degree graduating from College of Medicine Manila Central University in 1966. His remarkable journey began when he married his medical school classmate Dr. Melba Calderon Briones on December 17, 1965 in Manila, Philippines. 

Tristan and Melba immigrated to the United States with dreams of a bright future for their family. Tristan enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1975, then enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves in 1984. He rose to the rank of Colonel and made significant contributions as a Radiation Oncologist, Field Surgeon, Emergency Room and Family Physician combining his medical expertise with his unwavering commitment to military duty. 

Tristan’s military career was marked by earning the US Air Force Outstanding Award, the US Air Force Commendation Medal, the US Army Reserve Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the US Army Commendation Medal showcasing his exceptional integrity, valor, and dedication to his country. His service earned him numerous honors and awards as well as the deep respect of his peers and subordinates.

In addition to his military career, Dr. Tristan S. Briones continued to serve his community at Radiation Oncology PSC in Owensboro, Kentucky, where he embodied compassion and humility, and served with exceptional skill thousands of patients for almost thirty years. He was also fundamental in creating a Free Clinic at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Owensboro, KY, which has since expanded to become a large nonprofit organization.

Along with his numerous military and medical accomplishments, Tristan was recognized as one of the Twenty Outstanding Filipinos Abroad by FILAM Images, and the Outstanding Filipino Family Award by The Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame. Furthermore, he was honored as a Kentucky Colonel, which is the highest honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in recognition of his noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to the community, state and nation. 

After he retired, Tristan and Melba chose to spend more time in Arizona for the sunny, warm climate and most importantly to be closer to their children. 

Known for his outgoing nature and deep, hearty laugh that could light up a room, Tristan was a sociable and extroverted person who brought happiness and laughter to everyone he met. His kindness, generosity, and warm inviting spirit left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

Tristan is survived by his loving wife Melba C. Briones, M.D.; his children, Carlomagno Briones, M.D. (m. Sharon), Cyllene Briones, M.D., Christine Briones, M.D., Mariele Briones, M.D., and Tristan Briones II, M.D. (m. Elizabeth); and his grandchildren, Isabella, Yasmeena, Tristan Maximus, Tristan Isaac, Tristan Joseph, Gianna, and Tristan Marcello. They will forever cherish his memory and strive to uphold the legacy he has left behind. 

A visitation will be held on Monday July 29, 2024 4:00-7:00 pm at the Chapel Holy Cross Funeral Home in Avondale, AZ, with Rosary prayer starting at 5:30 pm. The mass will be held the following day on Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Avondale, AZ. followed by the funeral service at 1:00 pm. Colonel Tristan Santa Elena Briones, M.D., will be laid to rest with full military honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, symbolizing the culmination of a life dedicated to service, love, and sacrifice. Thank you for your service, Papa. 


Colonel Tristan S. Briones, M.D. US Army 2020

Lt Colonel Tristan S. Briones, M.D. US Army 1991

Colonel Tristan S. Briones, M.D. US Army 2022

Major Tristan S. Briones, M.D. US Air Force 1975

Colonel Tristan S. Briones, M.D. US Army 2010

National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona

TRISTAN SANTA ELENA BRIONES's Profile Picture

Col. Tristan taught me a lot about the military; he had the experience since he was in active Air Force Military-Medicine at Kessler Air Force Base.   My attitude toward him is that he was a brother to me.  He and his wife have been very dear to Grace and me; we loved Col. Tristan and his family.
I had known this brilliant medical professional for decades in our Fil-Am medical association in Louisville, and U. S. Army membership with Tris, also in Louisville.  He was definitely a patriot, first as a long time active U. S. Air Force medical officer, then as a member of the 5010th U. S. Army Reserve Hospital in Louisville. While there we were both activated for Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, he served his adopted country admirably. After the first Gulf War, he continued his reserve service with the 5010th until retirement.
I will miss my great friend, Tristan, his humor and his deep insights.


TRISTAN SANTA ELENA BRIONES

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