CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — When the whistle blows outside of East Cliff Elementary there's typically a tap on the horn and a friendly wave for 'Mr. Kiki,' the school crossing guard.
"Mr. Kiki, he is like a legend around here," parent Amiel Garcia said. "He's been around for quite a while and all the kids love him."
In fact, there's not many folks who don't know the man wearing the neon vest.
His real name is Enrique Marquez III. He is a US Navy veteran, so he is a longtime protector.
He's spending his retirement helping students safely cross Broadway Boulevard, every school day for the last five years.
The beloved crossing guard has proved to be an important asset to G-P ISD and to parents who depend on him.
"If I'm ever a couple of minutes late coming to pick up my daughter he'll call me, let me know she's right here," Garcia said.
East Cliff Elementary Principal Ashley Banda said it's his smile and caring personality that is winning hearts.
"He's always caring about our teachers, making sure they have a hot cup of coffee," she said.
To show their gratitude and appreciation for Mr. Kiki, the Lil' Cat PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization) raised money for a special tribute.
Across the hall from the murals of Selena and Kobe Bryant, a new addition — a larger than life portrait of Mr. Kiki.
He said it was a complete surprise.
"I was really surprised," Mr. Kiki said. "It was a great honor they did this for me. I didn't know it was going to happen. I really appreciate the community teachers staff and the PTO."
School staff said it is more than art, but a celebration of a hero, their hero.
"And as the students pass by [they say,] 'Mr. Kiki?' even we had a student that's only been here two weeks and when she passed by she said 'That's the crossing guard!' She knew exactly who he was," Banda said.