We are continuing our Veterans Day tradition of recognizing County employees who have served in the armed forces. Thanks to those veterans who chose to share their stories and thank you to all veterans for your service. We are building on the submissions we've had the last few years.
Read MoreWe are continuing our Veterans Day tradition of recognizing County employees who have served in the armed forces. Thanks to those veterans who chose to share their stories and thank you to all veterans for your service. We are building on the submissions we've had the last few years.
Read More
We are continuing our Veterans Day tradition of recognizing County employees who have served in the armed forces. We are building on the submissions we've had the last couple years. If you would like to be added, or if your submission needs to be edited because of a department change, please send an email with the following:
Your name
Department
Branch of service
Brief description of your service
Picture, if available
Thanks to those veterans who chose to share their stories and thank you to all veterans for your service.
*Note: This article will be updated periodically as submissions come in.
Faytera T. Doddy, San Diego County Veterans Service Office
United States Navy
I served from 2007-2012 as an Aviation Boatswains Mate Equipment (ABE).
I was stationed onboard the Uss Nimitz Cvn 68 where I launched and recovered Aircraft.
Darren Hughes, Analyst for HHSA/Child Welfare Services
United States Air Force
I served on active duty as an Aircraft Guidance and Control Craftsman from 1982 – 2002, retiring as a Master Sergeant (E-7). Duties included maintenance of flight instrument and autopilot systems on B-52, KC-135, F-4, H-1, and other aircraft at bases in California, Oklahoma, and North Dakota. Temporary overseas assignments took me to 13 countries, with extended duty in Guam, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Spain. Highlights include meeting the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, working on Vice-President Gore’s Air Force Two, and keeping on the job in temperatures of 120 degrees above zero and 45 below and through blizzards and sandstorms. I am proud to have served, as did my older brother (USAF-ret.) and our father (USN-ret.), and happy to continue working on aircraft as a volunteer aboard the USS Midway.
Jon Saunders, Ag, Weights and Measures
I served in the U.S. NAVY as a Hospital Corpsman from 1985- 1988. Did all of my tour at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton. I served as a ward Corpsman the eventually as an admission clerk. I did one week of Fleet Hospital Training in the event I was needed in that capacity.
Kimberla Titus, Department of Housing & Community Development
US NAVY. Data Processing Training Petty Officer in Naval Communications; Area Master Station of the Atlantic Fleet
I had the great privilege of escorting President Reagan on a tour of the new Communications Facility in Norfolk, VA.
Fernando Arce, Jr., Human Services Specialist for HHSA.
I was in the US Navy from 1993 to 2000. Served as an Engineman on the USS Coronado and at US Naval Air Station North Island.
Raul Serrano, Junior Air Pollution Chemist for LUEG
Served in the Air Force during The War in Afghanistan 1999-2003 as an C-130H avionics technician.
Deployed three times during 2001-2003 in support of the war effort.
Louie Q. Ravana, San Diego County Registrar of Voters, Logistics and Warehouse Operations
At the age of 22, I started my career in the U.S. Navy with a rank of Seaman Recruit (E-1), Served for 24 years retired at the age 46 with the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7) Served in six different combatant ships with different missions in the fleet.
Deployed in the Pacific and visited different countries and cities meeting different people with different cultures, customs and traditions. Out of 24 years, I served four shore tours both stateside and overseas under the Navy’s Supply Systems. Retired from the Navy in March 1999 and joined the county in January 2000.
From then up to the present, I’ve been in five different jobs including my present position as a Senior Storekeeper in the ROV warehouse.
Oscar Garcia, Procurement Specialist, Purchasing & Contracting, CSG
I was in the Marine Corps from 2003-2008 and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-05 and again in '06-'07.
Michael D. Bowden, HHSA
United States Army, B104 Military Intelligence Ft. Carson, Colorado
Job assignment: Provide support to infantry units
Arvin Budomo, Deputy Probation Officer, PSG
U.S. Navy Reserves 1988 to 2006. Served in Operation Desert Storm/Shield, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom.
Previous duty stations: 4th Medical Battalion, 1st Marine Division, Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, USS Racine LST 1191, Broadened Opportunity Officer Selection and Training (BOOST 94), NAS Pensacola, USS Abraham Lincoln CVN-72, Navy/ Marine Corps Reserve and Readiness Center San Diego.
Diane Porter, Board of Supervisors, Office Manager for Supervisor Dave Roberts
Served in the US Navy, 20 years active duty, toured the world.
Edgar Jimenez, Probation, PSG
I served in the Marine Corps, my rank was Corporal during the Iraq invasion on March 20, 2003.
Mike Vizzier, DEH
I was on active duty with U.S. Navy (Naval Academy) from 1968-1972, and the U.S. Marine Corps, from 1972-1992. I served in the 1st and 3rd Marine Air Wings and the 1st Marine Division.
Patrick DeGuzman, Veterans Service Office
Branch: US Marine Corps, Infantry/Rifleman/Scout
Michael Drake, Communications Officer, LUEG
“It’s just one weekend a month and two weeks a year.” Yeah, right.
During 25 years of service, most of it with the California Air National Guard, I served as PAO on countless aerial fire fighting missions throughout the western states, during the Guard deployment to airports after 9/11 and on the Southwest Border Mission – my first two encounters with San Diego media.
I was also honored to be selected as NCO of the Year for the state of California and then serve as emcee for various military events throughout the state including the California Military Ball. But it was the extensive travels and working with units from other countries that was most rewarding: hurricane relief in Honduras, helping the Fuerza Aerea de Chile establish their air evac unit (ERSAM) which came into play following a massive earthquake there, mass casualty evacuation exercises in Ukraine and the Atacama Desert. On one mission I found myself reading an article about a backwater place at the headwaters of the Amazon - at the very spot described in the magazine. Then there was a brief stint in the Middle East on what they called Desert Storm.
So it really wasn’t “just one weekend a month and two weeks a year.” But it was some of the most rewarding experiences of my life that I wouldn’t trade for anything
Trac Pham, DCSS Legal
USMC Reserves, 2003-2011
Ed Ramos, Senior Accountant, HHSA
Served in the US Navy from March 1980 and retired as a Senior Chief in February 1999.
Tim Mathues, Veterans Outreach Coordinator, DHR
I served in the US Marine Corps in Vietnam. I was with 3rd Battalion/7th Marines and a supporting unit on a landing zone from 1970 to 1971. My picture is attached. I was 18 years old and half way through my tour. Thank you for remembering us.
Jerry Benson, Department of General Services
US Navy
12 years as a GSE (Gas Turbine Systems Electrician)
-Served aboard Spruance and Aegis Class Destroyers in the Engineering Department (Main Propulsion Division)
-Deployments to the Mediterranean, South Atlantic, North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Black Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf in support of various operations.
8 years as an RP (Religious Program Specialist – Fleet Marine Force)
-Served at the Naval Station Norfolk Chapel and with 3D Marine Aircraft Wing Chaplain’s Office
-Deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of OIF and OEF
Felix Sanchez, Program Specialist II, HHSA Eligibility Operations
Branch: U.S. Army
Permanent Duty Station: Fort Ord, CA
MOS: Fire Support Specialist (13F)
MOS Overview: A Fire Support Specialist is a member of the Army's field artillery team. The Fire Support Specialist is primarily responsible for leading, supervising or serving in intelligence activities such as target processing for artillery units and maneuver brigades.
Dates of service: 1989-1992
Tour of Duties: 1992 Los Angeles Riots (Non-Combat)
Mike Urquhart, Chief, Facility Operations, General Services
United Sates Navy
I began as an enlisted recruit in 1974 at the Navy/Recruit Training Center (NTC/RTC) here in San Diego...and yes, I learned to tie many a knot from the rails of the USS Never Sail (more commonly referred to as the USS Recruit). I started out at the rank of Fireman Apprentice and after a little more than 29 years and several trips around the world, completed my naval career at the rank of Commander and as the Executive Officer of Naval Base Coronado (NAS North Island). My first significant assignment, upon completion of Nuclear Power training, was as an engineer aboard the fast attack submarine USS Cavalla. Later, while stationed at the Naval Submarine Base Bangor, Washington, I received a Bachelor of Science degree and was subsequently accepted for a commissioning program from the Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida.
Following commissioning as a brand new Ensign (Butter Bar) and after receipt of the Naval Flight Officer designation (Wings of Gold), the remainder of my career became an exciting, if not a blur of assignments. I was privileged to serve as a Nava Flight Officer in six (6) Sea Control Squadrons flying in the S-3 Viking aircraft, and to deploy aboard five (5) different aircraft carriers. The greatest honor of my naval career, however, was in my tour of duty as the Executive and then Commanding Officer of the Sea Control Squadron Twenty Four (VS-24 – the “Scouts”); deploying from the USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Enterprise. VS-24 was an eight (8) aircraft S-3 squadron staffed by about 200 of some of the finest and bravest young Americans with which I have ever been associated – but I’m probably still a little biased.
Rea Alvarez, HHSA Aging & Independence Services
United States Navy – LT, XO
LCS Squadron – Navy Base San Diego
Victor Morales, Assistant Child Support Officer in the call center in downtown NBC8.
I served in the United States Navy from September 2007 to January 2012.
Stacie Meguro Dept. (TR) Therapeutic Recreation. Therapeutic Recreation Aide, Edgemoor Hospital
Served 6 years in the U.S. Navy. 1989-1995. Served during Desert Storm, Deployed for 6 months as well as
Several other Sea Trials. During Deployment, had the opportunity to travel to; Singapore, Japan, Guam, Hawaii, Thailand, Hong Kong and, Dubai; United Emeritus.
Worked aboard the ship USS McKee, A Submarine Tender. EN3, In Engineering, In A-Gang., Division, working on Steam, Auxilliary, Diesel Engines, A/C Units, O2/N2, (Oxygen/Nitrogen Plants), Boiler and Engine Room as well as other systems that help propel or steer the ship. Worked at 32nd Street Naval Base, P-250 Engine Shop, Worked on Fire Fighting Equipment and Governors.
While serving, received various awards and honors, including Battle E., for Ships Excellence in Preparation, as well as Sailor Of the Quarter. Met my Husband of 23 years while serving as well, who has since then retired.
Ian Guiab, HHSA
Navy. Worked as a Builder(BU) in the NAVY RESERVES. Oohrah Seabees!
Jesse Aaron Sebastian HHSA
U.S. Army. Enlisted as a Combat Engineer (12B) for 6 years. HOOAH Engineers lead the way!
Cici McKee, Human Resources/Risk Management
USMC
I went to boot camp in Parrish Island, South Carolina and got stationed at MCRD in San Diego through out my 3-year term from 1975 to 1978 in the Admin Division.
Brenda Salazar, HHSA
U.S. ARMY
Stationed in Ft Hood, TX and in Hanau, Germany
Served our country from 1998-2006
4 years active and 4 years reserve duty
Craig Lawson, AWM/Standards Enforcement
US Navy
Served six years aboard two submarines as an engine room mechanic.
MaeColleen Balcobero, Department of Environmental Health
United States Air Force Reserve (1999 – present)
Proudly serving my country working with Health Care Administration. I have been stationed at March Air Reserve Base, California, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii and Travis Air Force Base, California and have assisted with aeromedical transport of wounded service members and their families at Ramstein Air Base, Germany and Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
Happy Veterans Day to all those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. Thank you to the County of San Diego for your continued love and support for all of our military and their service.
Jennifer McIntyre, Probation Department
U.S. Navy, July 2000-July 2006
I served as a Fire Controlman (E-5) onboard the USS Normandy (CG 60), stationed out of Norfolk, VA. I was the supervisor of the work center responsible for the maintenance and operation of two large-caliber self-defense weapon systems (CIWS) that are the last line of defense against incoming missiles. I participated in two six-month deployments to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
I am currently the Probation Officer assigned to the county’s Veterans Treatment Court. I enjoyed my time in the military and love getting to still work with active duty and veterans.
Julian Shelby, County Technology Office
U.S. Navy
I joined the Navy the day after I turned 17 years old. I went to boot camp for 2 months in Illinois, spent a year of Advanced First Term Avionics (Aviation Electronics) training in Memphis, TN. area, and in October 1987, moved to beautiful San Diego. And I’m still here! I am a proud veteran of the Cold and the first Gulf Wars.
Millie Munguia, HSS, HHSA Center City FRC
US ARMY. Served 4 years and veteran of Desert Storm/Desert Shield/Persian Gulf War
Rebecca Lynn Grignon, Probation Department
Boatswains Mate Third Class, January 02, 1994-2012
I served my first 3 years in Guam onboard the USS Holland Submarine Tender. Next 3 year as the first female Assault Boat Coxswain in Coronado, California. Last few years as Military Police at Naval Submarine Base Point Loma
Raychelle Lee, Health and Human Services
U.S. Army. Served in Kosovo and stationed in Kaiserslautern Germany and Fort Riley-Kansas. Served our country from 1998-2006.
Nathan Manuel, Child Support Services
US Navy October 1989 till September 2000
I was a Gunner’s Mate Missiles second class. I served on board the USS Caron DD 970 and the USS Monterrey CG 64
Both ships were stationed at Norfolk Naval Base VA.
Also stationed at Yorktown Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown VA.
Served in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield 1991 and 1993.
Countless other operations ranging from rescuing Cuban migrants from waters off the coast of Cuba in 1995, to patrolling the Caribbean for drug boats in the '90s. Enjoyed serving my country and would do it again if needed.
Gwyn Reed, Auditor and Controller
USMC
Illustrator for the Officer Candidates School (OCS) at Quantico, VA.
Ken Mallen, Probation Department
U.S Air Force - 1969 thru 1973 - Honorable discharge - Sergeant
Vietnam veteran - Jet engine mechanic
Joe Abellar, Sheriff's Department
US Navy – Retired Senior Chief Personnelman - PNCS(SW)
I retired in September 1996 after serving honorably for over 25 years. I attended recruit training at Recruit Training Command in San Diego, CA and went to Personnelman "A" school right after boot camp. My first duty station was as ship's company on board the carrier USS RANGER (CVA-61). Other duty stations served included: Naval Air Station Miramar, Naval Support Force Antarctica (NSFA), NETSPAC San Diego, CA, USS REASONER (FF-1063), Personnel Support Detachment,, Recruit Training Command, San Diego, CA and the Fighting Redcocks of VFA-22 aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72). Sea time included two deployments to the Western Pacific on board the USS RANGER (CVA-61) during the Vietnam conflict, two deployments to McMurdo Station in the Antarctic as part of the WINFLY and summer support groups Operation DEEP FREEZ, two deployments on board the frigate USS REASONER (FF-1063) in the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. USS REASONER was also part of the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) carrier air group which crossed the Suez Canal from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean See during the Libyan conflict in 1986. My last duty station was with the Fighter Squadron VFA-22 embarked on board USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) that also made two deployments to the Indian Ocean and the North Arabian Sea.
Ports visited: Hawaii, Yokosuka and Sasebo Japan, Subic Bay Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Penang Malaysia, Jakarta Indonesia, Madras India, Dubai UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Vancouver BC, Christchurch New Zealand, and McMurdo Station Antarctica, Naples, Sigonella, Sicily, Rome, island of Capri, and St. Tropez France. Some personal highlights and memorable periods of these deployments included landing to McMurdo Station, Antarctica aboard a ski-equipped C-130 Hercules landing on the "ICE", being hoisted up by an ASW helicopter for transfer from one ship to another, being a passenger of C-2 plane landing on an aircraft carrier, and crossing the Suez Canal standing watch as part of the small craft action team manning 50 Cal machine gun from atop the ship's helo hangar.
Earned the following medals and awards: National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Antarctic Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Commendation Medal.
Linda Feeley, Agriculture, Weights and Measures
I was in the United States Navy from 1981 to 1986. Most of my career was in Rota, Spain as an AD2-Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class, working as a helicopter mechanic on the SH-3G Helicopters attached to NAVSTA Rota, Spain. Hoo Rah!
Allen Hunsberger, Purchasing and Contracting
U.S. Navy Reserve: 1991 - present
Intelligence Specialist and Intelligence Officer
Rewarding career providing intelligence support for many commands. Mobilized and deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom with Naval Special Warfare Group One.
Susan Budzien, Auditor and Controller
USMC; 1993 – 2002; Staff Sergeant (E-6)
3441 NAF Audit Tech – Audited revenue generating activities on Military Bases
5711 Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defense Specialist
2831 AN/TRC – 170 Repairer
Awarded a Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal; Certificate of Commendation
Rifle (M16) Expert Badge – Awarded x7
Pistol Expert Badge
Paul Yale, Health and Human Services
I was in the U.S. Navy for 8 years as a MS2/CS2 which was our designation for cooks. I served with VS-33 squadron/NASNI galley and aboard USS Nimitiz and USS John C. Stennis from Jan. 1997-Apr. 2001 and then at Naval Medical Center Balboa from Apr. 2001-June 2004.
Fred McCamic, Planning & Development Services
Army Medical Corps, 1969-71
Donnie Relieve, Health and Human Services
U.S. Navy
Honorably served over 20 years of active service from being a sailor to an officer. He takes great pleasure and honor to continue serving the military and veterans community.
Gail Pomare, Health and Human Services
I was in The Marine Corps for 13 years. I reached the rank of Sgt. I was in the Communications field, but later became a Combat photographer. I spent my time in the Corps in Okinawa and MCB Camp Pendleton. I joined at the age of 17, while still in high school. I went to boot camp Sept of 1979 and graduated on my 18th birthday, November 5th of that same year. I am from Georgia, married for 31 years to a retired Marine. Semper Fi.
Jonathan Lim, District Attorney's Office USAF Reserves
I am currently a SrA (Senior Airmen) assigned to the 56th Aerial Port Squadron located in March ARB (Air Reserve Base) Riverside.
Victoria Loftis, Public Works
USAF
1982-1988
Stationed at the following
Lowry AFB, Co
Shepard AFB, TX
Mather AFB, CA
Clark AFB, Philippine Islands
Dyess AFB, TX
Dana Trotter, Assessor/Recorder/Clerk
US Navy (2000-2006)
Stationed: USS Nassau, Naval Station Norfolk and VC-6 in Norfolk, VA
Frank Jessie, SanGIS
Served from 06/23/1969 until 11/30/1996
US Marine Corps
I held positions as Geodetic Surveyor, Cartographer and Terrain Analyst while serving in the Corps.
Participated in Desert Shield/Storm as a member of I MEF, 1st Topographic Platoon.
Extensive Traveling while I served.
Vilasack Manisouk, General Services
USN 1990-2000
USNR 2000-2005
Duty Stations:
USS DOWNES (FF-1070)
USS STERETT (CG-31)
NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND
NAVAL STATION YOKOSUKA, JAPAN
USS RODNEY M. DAVIS (FFG-60)
NAVAL STATION SAN DIEGO
NAVAL AIR RESERVE SAN DIEGO
TACRON TWELVE
Michael D. Bowden, Health and Human Services
United States Army
Military Intelligence, Ft. Carson, Colo
Tom Splitgerber, Health and Human Services
Retired after serving 30 years in the United States Navy with the rank of Captain. I was the Commanding Officer of two Dental Commands and the Director of the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center in Balboa Park. I have been the County Veterans Service Officer for the past 10 years.
Michael Piepenburg, Health and Human Services
Retired after serving 30 years in the United States Navy with as a Command Master Chief. Retired from San Luis Obispo County as the County Veterans Service Officer and currently is the Senior Veterans Service Representative for San Diego County.
Sandra Tompkins, Health and Human Services
US Navy, 1983-1987
Served in Rota, Spain as a Mess Management Specialist. Worked at the BEQ, BOQ as a front desk clerk and building petty officer.
John Fuss, Health and Human Services Agency
United States Navy
October 1979- October 1983
Stationed on board USS Barbey (FF-1088) Deployed during the Iran hostage crisis (November 4, 1979 to January 20, 1981)
Khris Goodloe, Health and Human Services
Human Service Specialist
U.S. Navy 4 years 2002-2005
Loreto (Louie) Q. Ravana, Registrar of Voters
U.S. Navy
Retired as a Chief Petty Officer (Supply) I served on board the following ships; USS Oklahoma City (CG-5), USS Bristol County (LST-1198), USS Acadia (AD-42), USS Schenectady (LST-1185) USS Leahy( CG-16), USS Juneau (LPD-10)
Deployed throughout the Pacific and visited Various Ports such as; Hawaii, Guam, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates. As a Chief Ship’s Serviceman, I’m in charge of the S-3 Division, responsible for the proper operation of the Ship’s Store, Barber Shop, Laundry and Vending Machines and also responsible for raising fund for the Ship’s Welfare and Recreation Fund for the crew through profits made from the ship’s store and vending machines sales. I spent most of my time in the service on board ships and had three shore duties (1) Fleet Industrial and Supply Center, Yokosuka Japan, (2) Defense Commissary Agency, Subic Bay Philippines and(3) Naval Medical Center (Supply Management) San Diego, CA.
In the picture I’m the one in White Chief Petty Officer uniform and the gentleman next to me is my son 2nd Lt. Louie Morillo Ravana Jr. U.S. Air Force.
Ernie Liwag, Environmental Health
2000-2001 US Navy (E-1, Unrated)
2001-2003 US Navy (Appointed to the US Naval Academy, Midshipman 2/C, Unrated)
2004-2008 US Air Force Reserve (E-4, Public Health Technician)
2011-PRESENT US Army Reserve (1LT, Heath Services Administrator)
Grateful to a nation that has given my family so much. A strong military family tradition. The opportunity to be a part of something greater than myself. Contribute to our nation’s defense. Patriotism. These were the reasons I decided to enter military service and continue to do so today.
During my time in service I was able to experience flying a helicopter (SH-60), be underwater onboard a nuclear sub (USS Topeka), cruise on a guided missile destroyer (USS Stethem), train in combat operations with Marines (Quanitico, VA), become a Public Health Professional (USAFR, 752nd Medical Squadron), learn to manage and deliver efficient health care systems (32nd Medical Brigade), and train Soldiers to meet standards according to Army Doctrine (3/363rd TSBN).
Thank you to those who have served and continue to serve. To the County of San Diego Employees- THANK YOU for your SERVICE to our community. HOOAH!
Ricardo Topacio, Health and Human Services
SHC(SW), USN, retired
Served in the Navy for 24 years, from Dec 1974 thru Dec 1998 and retired as a Chief Shipserviceman (Surface Warfare). I was stationed on board USS Marvin Shields (FF-1066) during operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm (1990-91)
My other duty stations:
• USS Whipple (FF-1062) in Hawaii
• NMCB-62 (Seabees) Gulfport, Mississippi, Diego Garcia and Guam
• Navy Commissary, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
• USS Bolster (ARS-38) in Hawaii
• USS Kiska (AE-35) Concord, CA
• Navy Commissary in 32nd st, San Diego
• USS Marvin Shields (FF1066) San Diego9
• Navy Commissary in Treasure Island, CA
• USS Coronado (AGF-11) North Island, CA
• Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado, CA
Foreign ports visited during my 24 years in the Navy: Subic Bay, Philippines; Bangkok, Thailand; Taiwan; Chinhae, Korea; Singapore; Hong Kong; Bunbury, Australia; Dubai; Oman; Bahrain; Djaboutti, Africa; Diego Garcia; Micronesia; Yokosuka, Japan; Karachi, Pakistan; Vancouver, Canada
Alejandro Zavala, beneath plane
Alejandro Zavala, Health and Human Services
United States Navy (2002-2010)
I was an Aviation Boatswains Mate Launching and Recovering Equipment (ABE for short) My job focused on working on the equipment that ensures the safe landing and launching of Naval Aircraft. I served aboard the USS Ronald Reagan from 2002-2008 and also was part of the original crew that was stationed aboard during the construction of the ship. I worked on and responsible for the upkeep of two catapults while aboard. The perks of the job was being able to be around aircraft and actually hooking the aircraft up to the catapult hence the pictures. After my time aboard I transferred to Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas from 2008 to 2010. My primary job while serving there was maintaining and upkeeping the shore based arresting gear that ensured the safe emergency landing for training pilots who do not have a means of stopping there training aircraft.
Michelle Deitrich, Health and Human Services
US Navy
I was on active duty from 12/80 to 12/84. I completed boot-camp in Orlando, FL and was stationed in Washington D.C. – Navy Annex. I re-enlisted in the US Navy Reserves in November 1996. I retired as Yeoman First Class in July 2012. I was mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and stationed at MacDill AFB in Tampa, FL. My dad and husband were Air Force; my brother a Marine. My two sons are both active duty Army. I’m very proud of our family service.
Barbara Stone, Treasurer-Tax Collector
US Army 1986-1989
Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, Ammunition Specialist.
Kurt W. Greiner, Sheriff's Department
U.S. Navy.
I was an MSC (SS) of the Food Services Divisions onboard seven different submarines in my 20 years, including Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines and Fast Attack boats in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets. I was deployed during the Gulf War and during numerous special operations during my career. I am now an Assistant Chief of Food Services with the Sheriff's Department.
Myrna T. Catubay, HHSA
U.S. Navy, HMCS (RET)
I served 20 years with the U.S. Navy during March 1980–March 2000, and retired as a Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman/Laboratory Technician. I was stationed at various naval hospitals/clinics, including a deployment with Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm aboard the USNS Mercy during the Persian Gulf War in 1990–91.
During 1992–1996, I served as an instructor in the Medical Laboratory Technician School for 4½ years at the Naval School of Health and Sciences here in San Diego.
I now work as a Public Health Microbiologist.
My other duty stations included:
Recruit Training Command (Orlando, FL)
Basic Hospital Corps School (Great Lakes, IL)
Naval Hospital Great Lakes (IL)
Basic Medical Laboratory School (Fort Sam, San Antonio, TX)
MEPS (Pittsburgh, PA)
Advanced Medical Laboratory School (Bethesda, MD)
Naval Hospital San Diego (CA)
Naval Medical Clinic (Pearl Harbor, HI)
Naval Hospital Oakland (CA)
Naval Hospital Yokosuka (Japan)
Jacqueline Santillanes, Edgemoor DPSNF
Service: USN / Retired
Dates of Active Duty: January 11, 1982 to January 31, 2008
Rank at Discharge: Security Officer / Lieutenant
Recognition:
Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (4)
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (4)
Good Conduct Medal (5)
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3)
National Defense Service Medal
Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
Kuwait Liberation Medal
Overseas Service Ribbon
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Sharpshooter Pistol Ribbon
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Navy Unit Commendation
Ships deployed on: USS Dixon, USS Samuel Gompers, USS McKee, USS Belleau Wood, Staff onboard USS Ronald Reagan.
Some of the ports visited: Hong Kong, Diego Garcia, Malaysia, Bahrain, Guam, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Philippines, Hawaii, United Arab Emirates, Korea.
Martin Cherry, Operations Manager - First 5 Commission
I am Martin Cherry, Operations Manager for the First 5 Commission (farthest to the right). I retired from the Navy in 1999 as a Chief Petty Officer after 21 years. The four men to the left are my sons. From left to right they are Jesse, Ken, Adam, and Matt. The three in uniform are officers in the Air Force (Adam was in the Air Force also but is now a Police Officer in Phoenix). Jesse is a pilot, Ken is an Intelligence Officer, and Matt is in Logistics. I am super proud of all of my boys.
I spent all my time in Southern California in San Diego, Long Beach and Ridgecrest California. I was on 4 ships out of San Diego: 1) USS Berkeley, 2) USS Pigeon (submarine rescue), 3) USS Fox, and 4) USS Constellation (aircraft carrier).
I joined the Navy right out of High School. I am proud to have served my country.
Carl Smith, CAO Staff Office, Finance and General Government Group
Carl Smith retired as a Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of service in July 2012. He reported for basic training in 1992 here in San Diego, and then transferred to Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Command where he completed “A” and “C” School training. In March 1994, he reported in USS Spruance (DD-963), where he conducted three Mediterranean deployments, a Black Sea deployment, and numerous counter-drug operations in Central and South America. From March 1999 to October 2004 , he transferred back to Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Command where he taught and developed Sonar System Maintenance courses. From 2004-2008 Chief Smith conducted Vessel Boarding Search and Seizure Operations throughout the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf in support of Intelligence and Special Operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chief Smith also served in USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), and finally ended his career at Commander, Naval Surface Forces Pacific.
Don Steuer, ACAO
Captain, USN
Active Duty: June, 1973-February, 2000
Among the ships deployed in:
USS Independence (CV 62)
USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)
USS Constellation (CV 64)
USS John F Kennedy (CV 67)
USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70)
USS John C Stennis (CVN 74)
USS Long Beach (CGN 9)
USS Texas (CGN 39)
USS LaSalle (AGF 3)
USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20)
Notable Assignments Afloat:
Line Division Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eleven (HS 11)
Operations Department Head, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS 4)
Flag Secretary, Cruiser-Destroyer Group Three
Executive Officer, Anti-Submarine Squadron Eight (HS 8)
Commanding Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Eight (HS 8)
Chief of Staff, Naval Striking and Support Forces Southern Europe
Notable Assignments Ashore:
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Aviation Logistics Analyst
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Executive Assistant, Chief of Operations Analysis
Anti-Submarine Warfare Wing Pacific Fleet, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Officer
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Requirements Officer, Aircraft Carrier based Helicopters
Commanding Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Ten
Commanding Officer, Naval Air Station North Island/Naval Base Coronado
Among Aircraft Flown:
T-34 Mentor
T-28 Trojan
TH-57 Jet Ranger
H-1 Huey (single and twin engine versions)
SH-3 Sea King
SH-60 Sea Hawk
C-2 Beech Craft King Air
Notable Personal Decorations:
Department of Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit
Meritorious Service Medal (3 awards)
Navy /Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards)
NATO Medal (Balkans)
Kuwait Liberation Medal
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
National Defense Medal
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Lee Ann Bishop, Treasurer-Tax Collector Specialist
U.S. Navy
Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/SW) 2nd Class
2005-2010
USS Nimitz
Bob Muballe, HHSA
Bob Muballe began working at our County Mental Health Case Management 7months ago. Bob's start date was delayed because he was deployed with the US Army for training. Bob entered our program and quickly became a team player here brightening everyone's day with his personality. Currently, Bob is deployed again for a year as a medic with the US Army. We wanted everyone to know how much we appreciate him. We wish him well and a speedy and safe return.
Janet Rose, Probation
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class
I served in the United States Navy from 1984 to 1997. During those 13 years I have worked as a ward corpsman, a Urological Technician and an Independent Duty Corpsman.
Honors include: Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Good Conduct, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon
Duty Stations:
Naval Hospital San Diego
Naval Hospital Guam
Naval Hospital Groton, CT
Naval Hospital 29 Palms
I enjoyed serving my country and salute the service men and women who carry on that tradition.
Amber J. Griffith, DPW
Medical Laboratory Technician, SRA, USAF, April 1995 – April 2001
I served in the US Air Force for 6 years after high-school. I worked as a med lab tech at Wilford Hall Medical Center on Lackland AFB in San Antonio Texas for my entire enlistment. I worked in the Emergency Department, Blood Gas, Special Chemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology and Hematology labs, and regularly performed phlebotomy. I witnessed people in the best and worst conditions of their lives. I received an honorable discharge in 2001, and then used my GI Bill for college.
Kurt Greiner, Sheriff's Department
Chief Petty Officer Greiner joined the US Navy and volunteered for submarine duty. He was stationed onboard the USS Nathanael Greene (SSBN 636B) and USS Sam Rayburn (SSBN 635G) based out of Holy Loch, Scotland completing 12 Strategic Deterrent Patrols. He transferred to the USS Billfish (SSN 676) completing several classified Special Operations and a 6 month Mediterranean Cruise. He was also onboard USS Haddo (SSN 604) and the USS Haddock (SSN 621) completing 5 Western Pacific and Indian Ocean Deployments and numerous Special Operations. He was assigned to the USS Boston (SSN 703) and completed a ten month Depot Maintenance Period at Portsmouth, New Hampshire. His final assignment was the USS Asheville (SSN 758) where he completed extended operations as part of the USS Carl Vinson Battle Group during Operations Southern Watch and other deployments before retiring with over 21 years of service and joined the Sheriff's Department.
Sharon Tracy, HHSA
Specialist SP4 U.S. Army October 1981 – October 1984
I served in the U.S. Army as a Electronic Warfare Signal Intelligence Non-communications Interceptor (98J). My basic training was at Ft. Dix, NJ, AIT school & Space Collections school at Ft. Devens, MA. I was stationed for 1 year in Sinop, Turkey & the remainder of my enlistment at Ft. Bliss, TX. While at Ft. Bliss, I was sent to Germany for a 2 month training mission.
John Gaffaney, HHSA
John Gaffaney was serving as a captain in the Army Reserve when he was killed in the Fort Hood, Texas shooting in 2009. He had attempted to stop the gunman but was fatally wounded. He had earlier served in the Navy and California National Guard.
An HHSA colleague asked that he be remembered in our tribute.
Roberto T. Caroche, HHSA
USN RETIRED. United States Navy – February 12, 1979 to June 30, 1999. A Gulf War veteran while serving onboard the aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) at Persian Gulf.
Tori Bramhill, HHSA
I served in the U.S. Navy from June 2003 – March 2007. I was an Aviation Electrician’s Mate and had a final rank of AE3 (Petty Officer 3rd Class). I served on board the U.S.S. Nimitz and went on one WestPac where I visited Hong Kong, Malaysia, Bahrain, Dubai, Guam and Australia. Honors and awards include:
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Navy Good Conduct Medal
Global War On Terrorism Service Medal
Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin
Rene Colon, General Services
United States Navy January 24, 1986 – September 30, 2006
Retired as Chief Boatswain’s Mate(SW)
Assignments
AFDM – 14
USS Stump DD-978
USS Peterson DD-969
USS Obrien DD-975
USS Halsey CG-23
TOPGUN
USS John Young DD-973
SIMA San Diego
ACB-1
Naval Base San Diego 32nd Street
Kristie R. Makowsky
Veteran, US Army
Specialist SP5 Fort Polk, LA
1975-1979
My son is current serving too… a proud family tradition…5th generation
Alan Reddick, ARCC
US Army 1969-1971
Expert Badge M16a2 Rifle
175 Mm Howitzer Crew Member
Medic And X-Ray Technician
30th Field Hospital
Augsburg, Germany
Certificate. Of Appreciation
Honorable Discharge
Areleous Burton, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I spent four years in the US Army as a Personnel Administration Specialist, spending my last year in the Army with 82nd Airborne Division. I had a total of 15 jumps while with the 82nd. I also spent 16 years in the US Coast Guard as an ST (Sonar Technician) & ET (Electronics Technician), with my last five years as a COMSEC (Secure Communications) instructor.
Our Coast Guard Cutter was the first one on scene at the Exxon Valdez oil spill; another of my cutters was lead cutter of the Haitian Operation, bringing Haitians trying to come into the U.S. back to Gitmo (Guantanamo Bay, Cuba), temporarily until they could be repatriated. Honorably discharged at expiration of term of service.
Louis Johnson, HHSA
US Navy 1982-2002 (Operations Specialist)
Served aboard: USS Okinawa LPH-3; USS Essex-LHD-2; USS Tarawa LHA-1
Some ops: Desert Storm/Shield; Nato operations Mogadishu; Relief to USS Cole
Awards: Nato award; Combat Action ribbon; Navy Achievement Medal; Sea Service; Good Conduct Award.
Proud to serve and glad the Navy showed me the world.
George Gonzales, Sheriff's Department
Service: California Army National Guard
Active Duty: Dec 1976 – 1979, 1/325th IN, 82nd Airborne Division
US Army Reserve 1980 – 83, National Guard 1996 – Present
Present Rank: Sergeant Major (E-9)
Currently serving with the 40th Infantry Division, General's Staff - Future Plans and Strategy (G5)
Prior Assignments: First Sergeant - Headquarters Company, 40th Infantry Division.
First Sergeant - Headquarters Company 2/185th Battalion, 40th Infantry Division
Operations Sergeant, 2nd Brigade, 40th Infantry Division
Decorations, Awards and Citations:
Army Commendation Medal (4 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Army Achievement Medal (1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Good Conduct Medal (Bronze Clasp 2 Loops)
National Defense Service Medal
NCO Professional Development Ribbon (Numeral 3)
Armed Forces Reserve Medal (M Device, X Device)
Army Service Ribbon
Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon (Numeral 3)
South Carolina State Ribbon
Parachutist Badge
Expert Badge (M9 Pistol)
Expert Badge (M16A2 Rifle)
Expert Badge (M67 Grenade)
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution
JTFWG ARFOR HQ, Certificate of Excellence
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Exceptional Service
40th I D, California, Certificate of Appreciation for Meritorious Service
Cited for Excellence by the Fort Knox Senior Observer Controller Team
Carmen Stamper, HHSA
US Navy (New Orleans, Pearl Harbor, San Diego)
Assigned to a Unit that provided communications for the Seabees.
The cell phones back then were heavy, bulky and big (about 9”).
Andrew Strong participating in a mass casualty drill aboard USS Ronald Reagan.Andrew Strong, FG3 Executive Office
Service: United States Navy, Hospital Corpsman, 1998 - 2007
Designations: Fleet Marine Force/ Surface Warfare/ Air Warfare
Duty Stations:
Camp Johnson, North Carolina
Camp lejeune, North Carolina
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina
Naval Submarine Base Bangor, Silverdale, Washington
USS Ronald Reagan CVN 76, North Island
Mary Santos, Public Works
U.S. Navy
Radioman 2nd Class
I served in U.S. Navy from 1973 – 1977
I am proud to have served my country!
Steve Spence, Environmental Health
I enlisted in the Navy at the age of 19 in July 1973, one month before direct military involvement ended in Vietnam. After training in Electronics Technology at Great Lakes, Ill, I was stationed for two years in Spain when it was under the authoritarian regime of General Franco. The Navy then brought me to Long Beach and San Diego where I was stationed on the USS Towers (DDG-9) highlighted by visits to many countries during an eight month deployment to the Pacific.
Ramon Bilbao, Parks & Recreation
I served in U.S. Navy aboard the following ships:
USS Jarrett (FFG-33)
USS Ranger (CV-61)
USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)
USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62)
I’ve participated in Operation Desert Storm, Restore Hope, and Iraqi Freedom.
Tara Harre, Probation
1996 – Present. Fifteen years ago I joined the Army Reserve as a Private (E-3), and I continue to serve today as a Captain (O-3). During these last fifteen years, I have traveled the world, jumped from planes, and served in combat. I truly feel that I am a stronger person from the experiences that I have endured from the military. I am a proud veteran and am going for my 20 - HOOAH!
Bill Horn, County Supervisor District 5
Service: USMC
Dates of Active Duty: July 1966-December 1970
Active reserve: 1970-1978
Rank at Discharge: Captain
I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1966 after graduating from SDSU. In 1968, I was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and sent to the jungles of Vietnam where I joined the Kilo 4/13 as the Executive Officer. Later that same year, I was promoted to Commanding Officer of Lima Battery 4th Battalion 12th Marines, 3rd MAR DIV RVN. While my Battery was under fire at `The Rockpile’, I received shrapnel wounds.
Recognition:
Bronze Star Medal with Combat V
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
Presidential Unit Citation
Naval Unit Citation
Meritorious Unit Citation
National Defense Medal
Vietnamese Campaign Medal with four stars
Overseas Service Ribbon
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold and Silver Star
Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation
RVN Civil Action Palm
Vietnam Service Medal
One of the greatest honors I have ever had was leading 270 men in combat for a year. As Ronald Reagan once wrote "Some people work an entire lifetime and wonder if they ever made a difference to the world. But the Marines don't have that problem."
Semper Fi
Lonnie Palm, HHSA
Branch of Service: United States Army
Length of Service: May 1973 – May 1976
I enlisted at the beginning of the all-volunteer Army at age 19. My first duty station was in Turkey near Istanbul for twelve months. In 1974 tensions between Turkey and Greece mounted concerning the island of Cyprus. At that time I had purchased a round trip ticket on a Turkish airline to visit the southern Mediterranean coastline of that country for three days. Permission was given by my commanding officer to take the trip. On the final day there I returned to the airport only to discover that it was closed off to the general public and taken over by the Turkish military. I contacted the base by telephone (not cell) and purchased a bus ticket with $1.25 remaining for the cross-country trek. During the bus trek an Army captain from my base also boarded. It was a good feeling to know that I wasn’t alone.
Mike Dick, General Services
U.S. Army, ’71 to ‘74
25th Infantry Division 147th Aviation Co. CH-47 Chinooks
Barbers Point Naval Air Station, HI
They were just two weeks back from Vietnam.
U.S Army National Guard ’84 to 2001 Retired MSG
40th Infantry Division 240th Forward Support Battalion
David Lampley, Probation
I enlisted in the US Army on June 1, 1970 and trained at Ft. Tacoma, WA and Fort Jackson, SC before being sent to Fifth Corps Support Command at Hanau, Germany. Volunteering for Vietnam in 1971, I served at Cam Ranh Bay, Danang and Long Binh for nine months as all units were being sent home around that time. From 72 to 73, I was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, a few miles from home. Honorable Discharge on May 31, 1973 as a Specialist 4th Class. Notable experience was sending two weeks in Managua, Nicaragua in Dec. 72 with a MASH unit supporting the country after a earthquake. I also spent one year in the Texas National Guard in 1974.
I enlisted in the US Navy in March 77 and served on USS Chicago (CG-11), USS Durham (LKA-114) and deployed to the Pacific on 5 occasions, three times as a member of Cruiser-Destroyer Group One on board the USS Long Beach, USS New Jersey and USS Midway. I retired in March 1977 as a E6, Operations Specialist First Class. All my time was spent in San Diego except for a two year tour on the minesweeper, USS Fearless (MSO-442) from 81 to 83.
Pete Jacovino, ARCC
I proudly served for 20 years 9 months and 1 day in the US Navy as a Lithographer. Often asked “if you could do it over again, would you”, always answered "heck yeah!" People pay good money to sail around the world and I always felt fortunate to be paid to sail around the world. Sure there were family separations, but they came along with the adventure. Our family always felt that the separations made you stronger.
One of the lasting memories I will always have tucked away in the military portion of my mind was floating around in the mined waters off the coast of Kuwait in the spring of 1991 for 45 days wondering, what if, and another would be riding a typhoon for the better part of 8 hours. Fun stuff!
Seriously, it was a great career, and heck yeah, I’d do it all over again. Anchors Aweigh!
Nina Gordon, Probation
I joined the military as a 2nd Lt in the Army Nurse Corps. My first assignment was the Newborn Nursery, Fort Ord, Monterey, a far cry away from the fighting in Vietnam. I remember the broken minds and the broken bodies of the men and women who were fortunate enough to return home. I also remember being in uniform, standing outside the subway in N.Y., and having to experience less than complimentary comments from people who didn’t think we should be in Vietnam. I am proud to have served my country. But I sometimes think the honorable title of veteran should be reserved only for those who served on the front lines. I salute those veterans, my fellow Americans, who put their lives and limbs on the line for the rest of us.
Doug Ailshie, HHSA
United States Army - Sept. 1972 to June 1974
Military Policeman – Specialist 4th Class
Tour of duty (16 mos.) - Camp Long Support Detachment
Wonju, Korea
I was part of the last draft during the Viet Nam War era.
My orders were amended to Korea from Viet Nam during the last week of advanced training @ Ft. Gordon, Georgia.
Jose Mallari, Public Works
I belong to an endangered species that is well on its way to extinction unless a saving treaty takes effect soon. As a Filipino citizen and non-resident of the United States in 1989, I joined the US Navy at the Subic Bay Recruiting Station in the Philippines by virtue of Article XXVII of the 14 March 1947 Military Bases Agreement between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. This agreement was abolished with the 1992 closure of US Military Bases in the Philippines. I served in the USS Dixon (AS-37), deployed to the Middle East during the Persian Gulf War, and was honorably discharged in 1993. Now an attorney, I have recently initiated an advocacy to seek restoration of US Navy Recruiting in the Philippines via re-negotiation of the Visiting Forces Agreement.
Jerry Wilkins, HHSA
Service: U.S. Marine Corps
Dates of Active Service: 11/23/65 to 11/23/69
Inactive Reserve: 11/23/69 to 11/23/71
Rank at induction: Private (E-1)
Rank at discharge: Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Duty Stations:
U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (Basic Training)
Marine Corps Schools, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Republic of Vietnam (Chu Lai/Danang/Phu Bai) with 11th Marine Regiment (Artillery), 1st Marine Division – October 1966 to November 1967
Participated in 5 major operations against VC/NVA
28th Marine Regiment (Infantry), Camp Pendleton – November 1967 to November 1969
Recognition:
Combat Action Ribbon
Good Conduct Medal
Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Meritorious Promotion to Corporal (E-4)
Meritorious Promotion to Sergeant (E-5)
Meritorious Promotion to Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Jennifer Reynolds, HHSA
I served in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. I served my country with the Marine Mag units as well as the VP67 Naval Air group, learning skills such as Emergency Medicine, Minor Surgery & Diagnosing sick sailors and Marines. I will never forget my brothers and sisters that stood beside me to assure our freedom.
Franco Lopez is on the right.Franco Lopez, Auditor & Controller
USMC 1999 – 2004
Memorable Events:
Weeks with no bed, little sleep, no shower, and no toilets at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003; no problem, we had plenty of ammo and a mission.
Coming out in one piece after countless conveys.
Setting up camp at the ruins of the ancient city of Babylon.
Mourning friends and colleagues.
Final Awards:
Combat Action Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Marine Corp Good Conduct
Presidential Unit Citation
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Sol Masangkay, Parks & Recreation
U.S. Navy, 1980-1991
Service: Antisubmarine Squadron 29, NAS North Island 1980-1983 (aboard USS Kitty Hawk, CV-61 in 1981 and aboard USS Carl Vinson, CVN-70 in 1983 on its first cruise)
NAS Miramar Supply Department, 1984-1987
USS Tripoli, LPH 10, 1987-1991 (Desert Storm veteran)
Doug Stauffer, General Services
1973-1994, US Navy Civil Engineer Corps
See the world- every move I made was across an ocean. I went from Mississippi to Okinawa to Puerto Rico to Hawaii to Diego Garcia to Georgia to Italy to New York to Japan, ending in San Diego. Best assignment: landed on Diego Garcia 2 weeks after the Iranian hostage-taking and witnessed the place go from a sleepy little backwater to the nexus of US military strength. Within months we had more Seabees on the island than anywhere else in the world. Seven day a week construction operations supporting fleet forces in the Persian Gulf.
Tony Avina, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I actively served in the US Army from 1987-1990. I remained as an inactive member of the US Army until 1995. I was stationed in Frederick, Maryland at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases-Bacteriology Division. I was Biological Sciences Assistant in the Anthrax Biological Research team. Our team was responsible to optimize the Anthrax vaccine, which was used by military personnel during the 1990 Persian Gulf War. I am a Persian Gulf War veteran. I was honorably discharged in 1990.
In addition, I also served in the California National Guard from 1992-1995. I was honorably discharged in 1995.
Harold Randolph, HHSA
United States Marine Corps, September 1974 to August 1995
I served as Administrator, Inspector/Instructor, Recruiter, Group Administrative Chief, Classified Document Courier, Company Gunny and Administrative Analyst. Places stationed or visited: North and South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; all states with Marine Corps Units west of the Mississippi and all Marine Units in the Western Pacific. Most memorable assignment was “Operation Restore Hope” Mogadishu, Somalia from December 1992 to May 1993. Most time spent overseas, 18 months in Subic Bay, Philippines. Most fun had was flying (not piloting) when stationed with VMO-1 “Can Do” and with VMO-4 “Bronco”. Call Signs used: “Guru” and “Reverend”. Continents visited – 6. Countries visited – 28. Ready to do it all over again!!!
Happy 238th Birthday Marines! (November 10, 1775 – 2013)
Semper Fi
Rolando Indiongco, Probation
I proudly served in the United States Navy for 30 years and 14 days. I travelled to more places around the world in 30 years that most people do in a lifetime, all for free, thanks to the multiple aircraft carriers wherein I served. I was promoted to the rank only 1 percent of the enlisted military attain: Master Chief Petty Officer. I started serving following the conclusion of the Vietnam War. I also served in the Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and many others. I salute all of my fellow veterans.
Timothy Henry, HHSA
I served almost 13 years in the Navy, worked on aircraft avionics systems mostly on the SH-2F and SH-60B helicopters. In the middle of my Navy career I was assigned to VX-1. This is the squadron that tests any new Antisubmarine Warfare aircraft and equipment. At this squadron we had five different types of aircraft both helicopters and fixed wing.
April Heinze, General Services
Join the Navy and See the World-that was the recruiting line that attracted me to the Navy. The 1970’s were the early days of expanded opportunities for women in the military and I was fortunate to receive a Navy ROTC scholarship to attend engineering school, serve my Country as a Civil Engineer Corps officer around the world, and become the third woman ever promoted to the rank of Captain in my specialty.
Memorable events include:
Seabees-the honor of leading the most dedicated and energetic young people to build and repair almost anything, anywhere
Shipyards-3 Navy shipyards, crawling through utility tunnels, repairing WWII damage in Pearl Harbor, and the eerie silence of the USS Arizona memorial
Diplomacy-bi-lateral exercises in Korea and Thailand, drinking vodka with generals in Russia
Disasters-earthquake recovery and monsoons in the Philippines, outrunning typhoons in the Pacific
Conflicts-landing in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Marines just 8 days after Iraq invaded Kuwait in the first Gulf War
Congress-watching our democracy at work, preparing testimony for appointees, briefing staffers on the hill, sitting in hearings directly behind the principals
9-11-flying cross-country on military aircraft with senior political appointees to return to D.C. when all commercial aircraft were grounded, returning to the Pentagon on 9-12 to find over 90% of the military and civilian employees continuing to work for freedom
Diane Jones, Health and Human Services
Eight years active duty service with the US Army. I am a disabled veteran who participated in Desert Storm as a combat medic. Throughout my military career I was stationed in some exotic and not so exotic places just to name a few: Ft Leonard Wood Missouri, Ft Sam Houston Texas, Tripler Army Medical Center Hawaii and Madigan Army Medical Center, Washington. While serving I became a Department of Defense Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, one of only 50 of us at the time Army wide.
Carlos Renstrom, Parks & Recreation
I served as a Human Resources Specialist (42A) in the U.S. Army. I was stationed in Columbia, South Carolina and Schofield Barracks in the island of Oahu, Hawaii, where I completed active duty.
During active duty, I was part of the Personnel Action Center for the 84th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy) in the 25th Infantry Division (Light) providing Human Resources services to 600 soldiers and their families. I was in charge of processing military personnel promotions, demotions, personnel actions, leadership briefings, data processing as well as making sure that soldiers and their families were receiving military benefits and counseling as needed during deployments. In 2004, I received the Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Marksman on M16 and M249 Rifle, Expert on Grenade and Overseas Medal.
Anne Greenstone, HHSA
I joined the Air Force Nurse Corps after college to earn the GI Bill to pay for grad school. I was assigned to Carswell AFB Texas 3/ 1972-3/ 1974. In early May 72 all active duty men on the base (pilots, crew, nurses) were hurriedly assembled and flown to Viet Nam in one night for the Tet offensive. Noise from departing planes kept me awake all night. All male RNs were gone. I worked the orthopedic ward caring for the war wounded . What a rambunctious group, mostly ages 18-20. One night I was surprised by flight staff entering the ED with a group of ill men- POWs coming home to Texas. I separated in March 1974. I went directly to UCLA. I was awarded my MN degree from UCLA in 1978. The GI Bill paid for living expenses. I earned it.
James Boyd, County Counsel
1972 – 1975 U.S. Army, Special 5, US Army Legal Services Agency, Europe
1975- 1977 U.S. Army Reserves (E-5)
1977 – 1980 U.S. Marine Corps, Lance Corporal until Enlisted Commissioning Program (OCS), 1st Lieutenant, Infantry
Dale Santee, Alternate Public Defender
Colonel Dale W. Santee was the senior individual mobilization augmentee to the staff judge advocate, HQ Pacific Air Force, Hickam AFB, HI. Commissioned as a reserve officer through the Direct Appointment Program, he served on active duty as an Air Force judge advocate from January 7, 1979 to August 8, 1983. He deployed twice in support of peacekeeping operations in Bosnia with the Tanker Task Force based in Pisa, Italy for Operations Deny Flight and Joint Endeavor. In December 1996, he deployed to Istres, France in support of Operation Joint Guard. From August 2000 to December 2000, Colonel Santee deployed for Operation Southern Watch to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the first reserve Staff Judge Advocate of an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF 9). He was an adjunct instructor at the Judge Advocate General School, Montgomery, AL, Pacific Joint Operations Law Exercise, HI and the International Institute of Humanitarian Law, San Remo, Italy.
Robert Contreras, Housing and Community Development
I served in the United States Navy from January 1976 until January of 1980. That is what brought me to San Diego. I enjoy my time in the Navy, especially the traveling. But what I remember most is meeting persons from my hometown of Schertz, Texas. The most memorable one was when I arrived at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. I was checked in by an Air Force sergeant who I had met when I was a teenager. I lived next to a Air Force base and I often hung at the gym. This sergeant worked with my uncle. Boy, was he surprised to see me. After I finished my enlistment, I decided to stay in San Diego as I fell in love with the city on my first visit.
Greg Locke, General Services
I served 21 years of active duty with the United States Marine Corps. The leadership traits that I witnessed while in the Marines Corps are something I have tried to emulate on a daily basis and will continue to for the rest of my life. I have lived in a number of unique areas of the world; I spent four months living in a tent in Yechon, Korea, spent time in the western Egyptian desert, saw the rainbows are formed when the desert sands blow off the coast of Tunisia in the evening and saw my daughter born in a hospital in Japan. I hope that all the veterans will enjoy this special holiday on November 11, 2011.
Manuel Garcia (right) with former County employee Robert Roberson.Manuel Garcia, HHSA
Active Duty
United States Army Feb. 1973 to July 1976
52nd Construction Engineer Battalion
220th Field Artillery,
Fort Carson, Colorado
United States Army Ready Reserve-1976-1987
129th Med. Evac. Hospital (Must Unit)-Admiral Baker Field
177th Transportation Company-Camp Pendleton
Tom Philipp, Auditor & Controller
Submarine Service – Cold War (1977-1983). Nuke machinist on USS HADDO SSN604. Home port – San Diego. Longest submerged – 45 days when Iran held US hostages. How does it feel underwater? A bit like an airplane, especially when they do ‘angles and dangles.’
Jay Patterson, ARCC
Rank: Dental Technician 1st Class
Branch: United States Navy (Retired)
Service: March 1976 to March 1996
Specialties: Medical/Dental Administration & Oral Surgery Technician
Commands:
(a) Overseas Command: NAS Agana Guam [Sep 76 to Mar 79]
(b) Sea Commands:
USS Coronado (AGF-11) [Apr 81 to Apr 82] – Persian Gulf Command Ship
USS Hunley (AS-31) [May 82 – Dec 83] – Holy Loch Scotland
USS Long Beach (CGN-9) [Jan 87 – Jun 90] – Pacific Fleet
USS Rushmore (LSD-47) [Aug 93 – Mar 96] – Pacific Fleet
Shore Commands:
(1) Naval Hospital, NAS Whidbey Island WA
(2) Naval Regional Dental Center, San Diego, CA
(3) Naval Supply Center, San Diego CA
(4) Fleet Dental Office, US Pacific Fleet
Notables:
(a) Sailed around the world in 1987.
(b) Set foot on every continent on this earth.
(c) Five tours of duty to Persian Gulf region (combat and non-combat).
(d) Lots of memories…
Kristie Makowsky, HHSA
I joined the United States Army right out of high school. I served for four years, on 3 different bases – Fort Polk, LA, Fort Gordon, GA and Fort Jackson, SC. I was the first female Radar Technician recruited right after the Vietnam war. I learned a lot in the Army and my veteran’s benefits are the only reason I was able to purchase my home. My son is following in my path and will be reporting to Fort Jackson, SC in March 2012.
Moises Rivera, Probation
USN 1989-1993. I served on the USS Vincennes CG-49.
Daniel E. Chesler, HHSA
U.S. Navy, served on ships escorting tankers during the ‘Tanker War’ and had a front row seat during Operation Preying Mantis.
We are continuing our Veterans Day tradition of recognizing County employees who have served in the armed forces. We are building on the submissions we've had the last couple years. If you would like to be added, please send an email with the following:
Your name
Department
Branch of service
Brief description of your service
Picture, if available
Thanks to those veterans who chose to share their stories and thank you to all veterans for your service.
Raychelle Lee, Health and Human Services
U.S. Army. Served in Kosovo and stationed in Kaiserslautern Germany and Fort Riley-Kansas. Served our country from 1998-2006.
Nathan Manuel, Child Support Services
US Navy October 1989 till September 2000
I was a Gunner’s Mate Missiles second class. I served on board the USS Caron DD 970 and the USS Monterrey CG 64
Both ships were stationed at Norfolk Naval Base VA.
Also stationed at Yorktown Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown VA.
Served in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield 1991 and 1993.
Countless other operations ranging from rescuing Cuban migrants from waters off the coast of Cuba in 1995, to patrolling the Caribbean for drug boats in the '90s. Enjoyed serving my country and would do it again if needed.
Gwyn Reed, Auditor and Controller
USMC
Illustrator for the Officer Candidates School (OCS) at Quantico, VA.
Ken Mallen, Probation Department
U.S Air Force - 1969 thru 1973 - Honorable discharge - Sergeant
Vietnam veteran - Jet engine mechanic
Joe Abellar, Sheriff's Department
US Navy – Retired Senior Chief Personnelman - PNCS(SW)
I retired in September 1996 after serving honorably for over 25 years. I attended recruit training at Recruit Training Command in San Diego, CA and went to Personnelman "A" school right after boot camp. My first duty station was as ship's company on board the carrier USS RANGER (CVA-61). Other duty stations served included: Naval Air Station Miramar, Naval Support Force Antarctica (NSFA), NETSPAC San Diego, CA, USS REASONER (FF-1063), Personnel Support Detachment,, Recruit Training Command, San Diego, CA and the Fighting Redcocks of VFA-22 aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72). Sea time included two deployments to the Western Pacific on board the USS RANGER (CVA-61) during the Vietnam conflict, two deployments to McMurdo Station in the Antarctic as part of the WINFLY and summer support groups Operation DEEP FREEZ, two deployments on board the frigate USS REASONER (FF-1063) in the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. USS REASONER was also part of the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) carrier air group which crossed the Suez Canal from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean See during the Libyan conflict in 1986. My last duty station was with the Fighter Squadron VFA-22 embarked on board USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) that also made two deployments to the Indian Ocean and the North Arabian Sea.
Ports visited: Hawaii, Yokosuka and Sasebo Japan, Subic Bay Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Penang Malaysia, Jakarta Indonesia, Madras India, Dubai UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Vancouver BC, Christchurch New Zealand, and McMurdo Station Antarctica, Naples, Sigonella, Sicily, Rome, island of Capri, and St. Tropez France. Some personal highlights and memorable periods of these deployments included landing to McMurdo Station, Antarctica aboard a ski-equipped C-130 Hercules landing on the "ICE", being hoisted up by an ASW helicopter for transfer from one ship to another, being a passenger of C-2 plane landing on an aircraft carrier, and crossing the Suez Canal standing watch as part of the small craft action team manning 50 Cal machine gun from atop the ship's helo hangar.
Earned the following medals and awards: National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Antarctic Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Commendation Medal.
Linda Feeley, Agriculture, Weights and Measures
I was in the United States Navy from 1981 to 1986. Most of my career was in Rota, Spain as an AD2-Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class, working as a helicopter mechanic on the SH-3G Helicopters attached to NAVSTA Rota, Spain. Hoo Rah!
Allen Hunsberger, Purchasing and Contracting
U.S. Navy Reserve: 1991 - present
Intelligence Specialist and Intelligence Officer
Rewarding career providing intelligence support for many commands. Mobilized and deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom with Naval Special Warfare Group One.
Susan Budzien, Auditor and Controller
USMC; 1993 – 2002; Staff Sergeant (E-6)
3441 NAF Audit Tech – Audited revenue generating activities on Military Bases
5711 Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defense Specialist
2831 AN/TRC – 170 Repairer
Awarded a Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal; Certificate of Commendation
Rifle (M16) Expert Badge – Awarded x7
Pistol Expert Badge
Paul Yale, Health and Human Services
I was in the U.S. Navy for 8 years as a MS2/CS2 which was our designation for cooks. I served with VS-33 squadron/NASNI galley and aboard USS Nimitiz and USS John C. Stennis from Jan. 1997-Apr. 2001 and then at Naval Medical Center Balboa from Apr. 2001-June 2004.
Fred McCamic, Planning & Development Services
Army Medical Corps, 1969-71
Donnie Relieve, Health and Human Services
U.S. Navy
Honorably served over 20 years of active service from being a sailor to an officer. He takes great pleasure and honor to continue serving the military and veterans community.
Gail Pomare, Health and Human Services
I was in The Marine Corps for 13 years. I reached the rank of Sgt. I was in the Communications field, but later became a Combat photographer. I spent my time in the Corps in Okinawa and MCB Camp Pendleton. I joined at the age of 17, while still in high school. I went to boot camp Sept of 1979 and graduated on my 18th birthday, November 5th of that same year. I am from Georgia, married for 31 years to a retired Marine. Semper Fi.
Jonathan Lim, District Attorney's OfficeUSAF Reserves
I am currently a SrA (Senior Airmen) assigned to the 56th Aerial Port Squadron located in March ARB (Air Reserve Base) Riverside.
Victoria Loftis, Public Works
USAF
1982-1988
Stationed at the following
Lowry AFB, Co
Shepard AFB, TX
Mather AFB, CA
Clark AFB, Philippine Islands
Dyess AFB, TX
Dana Trotter, Assessor/Recorder/Clerk
US Navy (2000-2006)
Stationed: USS Nassau, Naval Station Norfolk and VC-6 in Norfolk, VA
Frank Jessie, SanGIS
Served from 06/23/1969 until 11/30/1996
US Marine Corps
I held positions as Geodetic Surveyor, Cartographer and Terrain Analyst while serving in the Corps.
Participated in Desert Shield/Storm as a member of I MEF, 1st Topographic Platoon.
Extensive Traveling while I served.
Vilasack Manisouk, General Services
USN 1990-2000
USNR 2000-2005
Duty Stations:
USS DOWNES (FF-1070)
USS STERETT (CG-31)
NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND
NAVAL STATION YOKOSUKA, JAPAN
USS RODNEY M. DAVIS (FFG-60)
NAVAL STATION SAN DIEGO
NAVAL AIR RESERVE SAN DIEGO
TACRON TWELVE
Michael D. Bowden, Health and Human Services
United States Army
Military Intelligence, Ft. Carson, Colo
Tom Splitgerber, Health and Human Services
Retired after serving 30 years in the United States Navy with the rank of Captain. I was the Commanding Officer of two Dental Commands and the Director of the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center in Balboa Park. I have been the County Veterans Service Officer for the past 10 years.
Michael Piepenburg, Health and Human Services
Retired after serving 30 years in the United States Navy with as a Command Master Chief. Retired from San Luis Obispo County as the County Veterans Service Officer and currently is the Senior Veterans Service Representative for San Diego County.
Sandra Tompkins, Health and Human Services
US Navy, 1983-1987
Served in Rota, Spain as a Mess Management Specialist
John Fuss, Health and Human Services Agency
United States Navy
October 1979- October 1983
Stationed on board USS Barbey (FF-1088) Deployed during the Iran hostage crisis (November 4, 1979 to January 20, 1981)
Khris Goodloe, Health and Human Services
Human Service Specialist
U.S. Navy 4 years 2002-2005
Loreto (Louie) Q. Ravana, Registrar of Voters
U.S. Navy
Retired as a Chief Petty Officer (Supply) I served on board the following ships; USS Oklahoma City (CG-5), USS Bristol County (LST-1198), USS Acadia (AD-42), USS Schenectady (LST-1185) USS Leahy( CG-16), USS Juneau (LPD-10)
Deployed throughout the Pacific and visited Various Ports such as; Hawaii, Guam, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates. As a Chief Ship’s Serviceman, I’m in charge of the S-3 Division, responsible for the proper operation of the Ship’s Store, Barber Shop, Laundry and Vending Machines and also responsible for raising fund for the Ship’s Welfare and Recreation Fund for the crew through profits made from the ship’s store and vending machines sales. I spent most of my time in the service on board ships and had three shore duties (1) Fleet Industrial and Supply Center, Yokosuka Japan, (2) Defense Commissary Agency, Subic Bay Philippines and(3) Naval Medical Center (Supply Management) San Diego, CA.
In the picture I’m the one in White Chief Petty Officer uniform and the gentleman next to me is my son 2nd Lt. Louie Morillo Ravana Jr. U.S. Air Force.
Ernie Liwag. Environmental Health
2000-2001 US Navy (E-1, Unrated)
2001-2003 US Navy (Appointed to the US Naval Academy, Midshipman 2/C, Unrated)
2004-2008 US Air Force Reserve (E-4, Public Health Technician)
2011-PRESENT US Army Reserve (1LT, Heath Services Administrator)
Grateful to a nation that has given my family so much. A strong military family tradition. The opportunity to be a part of something greater than myself. Contribute to our nation’s defense. Patriotism. These were the reasons I decided to enter military service and continue to do so today.
During my time in service I was able to experience flying a helicopter (SH-60), be underwater onboard a nuclear sub (USS Topeka), cruise on a guided missile destroyer (USS Stethem), train in combat operations with Marines (Quanitico, VA), become a Public Health Professional (USAFR, 752nd Medical Squadron), learn to manage and deliver efficient health care systems (32nd Medical Brigade), and train Soldiers to meet standards according to Army Doctrine (3/363rd TSBN).
Thank you to those who have served and continue to serve. To the County of San Diego Employees- THANK YOU for your SERVICE to our community. HOOAH!
Ricardo Topacio, Health and Human Services
SHC(SW), USN, retired
Served in the Navy for 24 years, from Dec 1974 thru Dec 1998 and retired as a Chief Shipserviceman (Surface Warfare). I was stationed on board USS Marvin Shields (FF-1066) during operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm (1990-91)
My other duty stations:
• USS Whipple (FF-1062) in Hawaii
• NMCB-62 (Seabees) Gulfport, Mississippi, Diego Garcia and Guam
• Navy Commissary, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
• USS Bolster (ARS-38) in Hawaii
• USS Kiska (AE-35) Concord, CA
• Navy Commissary in 32nd st, San Diego
• USS Marvin Shields (FF1066) San Diego9
• Navy Commissary in Treasure Island, CA
• USS Coronado (AGF-11) North Island, CA
• Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado, CA
Foreign ports visited during my 24 years in the Navy: Subic Bay, Philippines; Bangkok, Thailand; Taiwan; Chinhae, Korea; Singapore; Hong Kong; Bunbury, Australia; Dubai; Oman; Bahrain; Djaboutti, Africa; Diego Garcia; Micronesia; Yokosuka, Japan; Karachi, Pakistan; Vancouver, Canada
Alejandro Zavala, Health and Human Services
Alejandro Zavala, beneath plane. United States Navy (2002-2010)
I was an Aviation Boatswains Mate Launching and Recovering Equipment (ABE for short) My job focused on working on the equipment that ensures the safe landing and launching of Naval Aircraft. I served aboard the USS Ronald Reagan from 2002-2008 and also was part of the original crew that was stationed aboard during the construction of the ship. I worked on and responsible for the upkeep of two catapults while aboard. The perks of the job was being able to be around aircraft and actually hooking the aircraft up to the catapult hence the pictures. After my time aboard I transferred to Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas from 2008 to 2010. My primary job while serving there was maintaining and upkeeping the shore based arresting gear that ensured the safe emergency landing for training pilots who do not have a means of stopping there training aircraft.
Michelle Deitrich, Health and Human Services
US Navy
I was on active duty from 12/80 to 12/84. I completed boot-camp in Orlando, FL and was stationed in Washington D.C. – Navy Annex. I re-enlisted in the US Navy Reserves in November 1996. I retired as Yeoman First Class in July 2012. I was mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and stationed at MacDill AFB in Tampa, FL. My dad and husband were Air Force; my brother a Marine. My two sons are both active duty Army. I’m very proud of our family service.
Barbara Stone, Treasurer-Tax Collector
US Army 1986-1989
Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, Ammunition Specialist.
Kurt W. Greiner, Sheriff's Department
U.S. Navy.
I was an MSC (SS) of the Food Services Divisions onboard seven different submarines in my 20 years, including Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines and Fast Attack boats in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets. I was deployed during the Gulf War and during numerous special operations during my career. I am now an Assistant Chief of Food Services with the Sheriff's Department.
Myrna T. Catubay, HHSA
U.S. Navy, HMCS (RET)
I served 20 years with the U.S. Navy during March 1980–March 2000, and retired as a Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman/Laboratory Technician. I was stationed at various naval hospitals/clinics, including a deployment with Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm aboard the USNS Mercy during the Persian Gulf War in 1990–91.
During 1992–1996, I served as an instructor in the Medical Laboratory Technician School for 4½ years at the Naval School of Health and Sciences here in San Diego.
I now work as a Public Health Microbiologist.
My other duty stations included:
Recruit Training Command (Orlando, FL)
Basic Hospital Corps School (Great Lakes, IL)
Naval Hospital Great Lakes (IL)
Basic Medical Laboratory School (Fort Sam, San Antonio, TX)
MEPS (Pittsburgh, PA)
Advanced Medical Laboratory School (Bethesda, MD)
Naval Hospital San Diego (CA)
Naval Medical Clinic (Pearl Harbor, HI)
Naval Hospital Oakland (CA)
Naval Hospital Yokosuka (Japan)
Jacqueline Santillanes, Edgemoor DPSNF
Service: USN / Retired
Dates of Active Duty: January 11, 1982 to January 31, 2008
Rank at Discharge: Security Officer / Lieutenant
Recognition:
Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (4)
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (4)
Good Conduct Medal (5)
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3)
National Defense Service Medal
Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
Kuwait Liberation Medal
Overseas Service Ribbon
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Sharpshooter Pistol Ribbon
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Navy Unit Commendation
Ships deployed on: USS Dixon, USS Samuel Gompers, USS McKee, USS Belleau Wood, Staff onboard USS Ronald Reagan.
Some of the ports visited: Hong Kong, Diego Garcia, Malaysia, Bahrain, Guam, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Philippines, Hawaii, United Arab Emirates, Korea.
Martin Cherry, Operations Manager - First 5 Commission
I am Martin Cherry, Operations Manager for the First 5 Commission (farthest to the right). I retired from the Navy in 1999 as a Chief Petty Officer after 21 years. The four men to the left are my sons. From left to right they are Jesse, Ken, Adam, and Matt. The three in uniform are officers in the Air Force (Adam was in the Air Force also but is now a Police Officer in Phoenix). Jesse is a pilot, Ken is an Intelligence Officer, and Matt is in Logistics. I am super proud of all of my boys.
I spent all my time in Southern California in San Diego, Long Beach and Ridgecrest California. I was on 4 ships out of San Diego: 1) USS Berkeley, 2) USS Pigeon (submarine rescue), 3) USS Fox, and 4) USS Constellation (aircraft carrier).
I joined the Navy right out of High School. I am proud to have served my country.
Carl Smith, HR Analyst, Department of Human Resources - Employee Development Division
Carl Smith retired as a Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of service in July 2012. He reported for basic training in 1992 here in San Diego, and then transferred to Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Command where he completed “A” and “C” School training. In March 1994, he reported in USS Spruance (DD-963), where he conducted three Mediterranean deployments, a Black Sea deployment, and numerous counter-drug operations in Central and South America. From March 1999 to October 2004 , he transferred back to Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Command where he taught and developed Sonar System Maintenance courses. From 2004-2008 Chief Smith conducted Vessel Boarding Search and Seizure Operations throughout the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf in support of Intelligence and Special Operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chief Smith also served in USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), and finally ended his career at Commander, Naval Surface Forces Pacific.
Don Steuer, ACAO
Captain, USN
Active Duty: June, 1973-February, 2000
Among the ships deployed in:
USS Independence (CV 62)
USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)
USS Constellation (CV 64)
USS John F Kennedy (CV 67)
USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70)
USS John C Stennis (CVN 74)
USS Long Beach (CGN 9)
USS Texas (CGN 39)
USS LaSalle (AGF 3)
USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20)
Notable Assignments Afloat:
Line Division Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eleven (HS 11)
Operations Department Head, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS 4)
Flag Secretary, Cruiser-Destroyer Group Three
Executive Officer, Anti-Submarine Squadron Eight (HS 8)
Commanding Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Eight (HS 8)
Chief of Staff, Naval Striking and Support Forces Southern Europe
Notable Assignments Ashore:
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Aviation Logistics Analyst
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Executive Assistant, Chief of Operations Analysis
Anti-Submarine Warfare Wing Pacific Fleet, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Officer
Chief of Naval Operations Staff, Requirements Officer, Aircraft Carrier based Helicopters
Commanding Officer, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Ten
Commanding Officer, Naval Air Station North Island/Naval Base Coronado
Among Aircraft Flown:
T-34 Mentor
T-28 Trojan
TH-57 Jet Ranger
H-1 Huey (single and twin engine versions)
SH-3 Sea King
SH-60 Sea Hawk
C-2 Beech Craft King Air
Notable Personal Decorations:
Department of Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit
Meritorious Service Medal (3 awards)
Navy /Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards)
NATO Medal (Balkans)
Kuwait Liberation Medal
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
National Defense Medal
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Lee Ann Bishop, Treasurer-Tax Collector Specialist
U.S. Navy
Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/SW) 2nd Class
2005-2010
USS Nimitz
Bob Muballe, HHSA
Bob Muballe began working at our County Mental Health Case Management 7months ago. Bob's start date was delayed because he was deployed with the US Army for training. Bob entered our program and quickly became a team player here brightening everyone's day with his personality. Currently, Bob is deployed again for a year as a medic with the US Army. We wanted everyone to know how much we appreciate him. We wish him well and a speedy and safe return.
Janet Rose, Probation
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class
I served in the United States Navy from 1984 to 1997. During those 13 years I have worked as a ward corpsman, a Urological Technician and an Independent Duty Corpsman.
Honors include: Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Good Conduct, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon
Duty Stations:
Naval Hospital San Diego
Naval Hospital Guam
Naval Hospital Groton, CT
Naval Hospital 29 Palms
I enjoyed serving my country and salute the service men and women who carry on that tradition.
Amber J. Griffith, DPW
Medical Laboratory Technician, SRA, USAF, April 1995 – April 2001
I served in the US Air Force for 6 years after high-school. I worked as a med lab tech at Wilford Hall Medical Center on Lackland AFB in San Antonio Texas for my entire enlistment. I worked in the Emergency Department, Blood Gas, Special Chemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology and Hematology labs, and regularly performed phlebotomy. I witnessed people in the best and worst conditions of their lives. I received an honorable discharge in 2001, and then used my GI Bill for college.
Kurt Greiner, Sheriff's Department
Chief Petty Officer Greiner joined the US Navy and volunteered for submarine duty. He was stationed onboard the USS Nathanael Greene (SSBN 636B) and USS Sam Rayburn (SSBN 635G) based out of Holy Loch, Scotland completing 12 Strategic Deterrent Patrols. He transferred to the USS Billfish (SSN 676) completing several classified Special Operations and a 6 month Mediterranean Cruise. He was also onboard USS Haddo (SSN 604) and the USS Haddock (SSN 621) completing 5 Western Pacific and Indian Ocean Deployments and numerous Special Operations. He was assigned to the USS Boston (SSN 703) and completed a ten month Depot Maintenance Period at Portsmouth, New Hampshire. His final assignment was the USS Asheville (SSN 758) where he completed extended operations as part of the USS Carl Vinson Battle Group during Operations Southern Watch and other deployments before retiring with over 21 years of service and joined the Sheriff's Department.
Sharon Tracy, HHSA
Specialist SP4 U.S. Army October 1981 – October 1984
I served in the U.S. Army as a Electronic Warfare Signal Intelligence Non-communications Interceptor (98J). My basic training was at Ft. Dix, NJ, AIT school & Space Collections school at Ft. Devens, MA. I was stationed for 1 year in Sinop, Turkey & the remainder of my enlistment at Ft. Bliss, TX. While at Ft. Bliss, I was sent to Germany for a 2 month training mission.
John Gaffaney, HHSA
John Gaffaney was serving as a captain in the Army Reserve when he was killed in the Fort Hood, Texas shooting in 2009. He had attempted to stop the gunman but was fatally wounded. He had earlier served in the Navy and California National Guard.
An HHSA colleague asked that he be remembered in our tribute.
Roberto T. Caroche, HHSA
USN RETIRED. United States Navy – February 12, 1979 to June 30, 1999. A Gulf War veteran while serving onboard the aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) at Persian Gulf.
Tori Bramhill, HHSA
I served in the U.S. Navy from June 2003 – March 2007. I was an Aviation Electrician’s Mate and had a final rank of AE3 (Petty Officer 3rd Class). I served on board the U.S.S. Nimitz and went on one WestPac where I visited Hong Kong, Malaysia, Bahrain, Dubai, Guam and Australia. Honors and awards include:
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Navy Good Conduct Medal
Global War On Terrorism Service Medal
Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin
Rene Colon, General Services
United States Navy January 24, 1986 – September 30, 2006
Retired as Chief Boatswain’s Mate(SW)
Assignments
AFDM – 14
USS Stump DD-978
USS Peterson DD-969
USS Obrien DD-975
USS Halsey CG-23
TOPGUN
USS John Young DD-973
SIMA San Diego
ACB-1
Naval Base San Diego 32nd Street
Kristie R. Makowsky
Veteran, US Army
Specialist SP5 Fort Polk, LA
1975-1979
My son is current serving too… a proud family tradition…5th generation
Alan Reddick, ARCC
US Army 1969-1971
Expert Badge M16a2 Rifle
175 Mm Howitzer Crew Member
Medic And X-Ray Technician
30th Field Hospital
Augsburg, Germany
Certificate. Of Appreciation
Honorable Discharge
Areleous Burton, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I spent four years in the US Army as a Personnel Administration Specialist, spending my last year in the Army with 82nd Airborne Division. I had a total of 15 jumps while with the 82nd. I also spent 16 years in the US Coast Guard as an ST (Sonar Technician) & ET (Electronics Technician), with my last five years as a COMSEC (Secure Communications) instructor.
Our Coast Guard Cutter was the first one on scene at the Exxon Valdez oil spill; another of my cutters was lead cutter of the Haitian Operation, bringing Haitians trying to come into the U.S. back to Gitmo (Guantanamo Bay, Cuba), temporarily until they could be repatriated. Honorably discharged at expiration of term of service.
Louis Johnson, HHSA
US Navy 1982-2002 (Operations Specialist)
Served aboard: USS Okinawa LPH-3
USS Essex-LHD-2
USS Tarawa LHA-1
Some ops:
Desert Storm/Shield
Nato operations Mogadishu
Relief to USS Cole
Awards
Nato award
Combat Action ribbon
Navy Achievement Medal
Sea Service
Good Conduct Award
Proud to serve and glad the Navy showed me the world.
George Gonzales, Sheriff's Department
Service: California Army National Guard
Active Duty: Dec 1976 – 1979, 1/325th IN, 82nd Airborne Division
US Army Reserve 1980 – 83, National Guard 1996 – Present
Present Rank: Sergeant Major (E-9)
Currently serving with the 40th Infantry Division, General's Staff - Future Plans and Strategy (G5)
Prior Assignments: First Sergeant - Headquarters Company, 40th Infantry Division.
First Sergeant - Headquarters Company 2/185th Battalion, 40th Infantry Division
Operations Sergeant, 2nd Brigade, 40th Infantry Division
Decorations, Awards and Citations:
Army Commendation Medal (4 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Army Achievement Medal (1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Good Conduct Medal (Bronze Clasp 2 Loops)
National Defense Service Medal
NCO Professional Development Ribbon (Numeral 3)
Armed Forces Reserve Medal (M Device, X Device)
Army Service Ribbon
Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon (Numeral 3)
South Carolina State Ribbon
Parachutist Badge
Expert Badge (M9 Pistol)
Expert Badge (M16A2 Rifle)
Expert Badge (M67 Grenade)
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution
JTFWG ARFOR HQ, Certificate of Excellence
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Exceptional Service
40th I D, California, Certificate of Appreciation for Meritorious Service
Cited for Excellence by the Fort Knox Senior Observer Controller Team
Carmen Stamper, HHSA
US Navy (New Orleans, Pearl Harbor, San Diego)
Assigned to a Unit that provided communications for the Seabees.
The cell phones back then were heavy, bulky and big (about 9”).
Andrew Strong participating in a mass casualty drill aboard USS Ronald Reagan.Andrew Strong, FG3 Executive Office
Service: United States Navy, Hospital Corpsman, 1998 - 2007
Designations: Fleet Marine Force/ Surface Warfare/ Air Warfare
Duty Stations:
Camp Johnson, North Carolina
Camp lejeune, North Carolina
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina
Naval Submarine Base Bangor, Silverdale, Washington
USS Ronald Reagan CVN 76, North Island
Mary Santos, Public Works
U.S. Navy
Radioman 2nd Class
I served in U.S. Navy from 1973 – 1977
I am proud to have served my country!
Steve Spence, Environmental Health
I enlisted in the Navy at the age of 19 in July 1973, one month before direct military involvement ended in Vietnam. After training in Electronics Technology at Great Lakes, Ill, I was stationed for two years in Spain when it was under the authoritarian regime of General Franco. The Navy then brought me to Long Beach and San Diego where I was stationed on the USS Towers (DDG-9) highlighted by visits to many countries during an eight month deployment to the Pacific.
Ramon Bilbao, Parks & Recreation
I served in U.S. Navy aboard the following ships:
USS Jarrett (FFG-33)
USS Ranger (CV-61)
USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)
USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62)
I’ve participated in Operation Desert Storm, Restore Hope, and Iraqi Freedom.
Tara Harre, Probation
1996 – Present. Fifteen years ago I joined the Army Reserve as a Private (E-3), and I continue to serve today as a Captain (O-3). During these last fifteen years, I have traveled the world, jumped from planes, and served in combat. I truly feel that I am a stronger person from the experiences that I have endured from the military. I am a proud veteran and am going for my 20 - HOOAH!
Bill Horn, County Supervisor District 5
Service: USMC
Dates of Active Duty: July 1966-December 1970
Active reserve: 1970-1978
Rank at Discharge: Captain
I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1966 after graduating from SDSU. In 1968, I was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and sent to the jungles of Vietnam where I joined the Kilo 4/13 as the Executive Officer. Later that same year, I was promoted to Commanding Officer of Lima Battery 4th Battalion 12th Marines, 3rd MAR DIV RVN. While my Battery was under fire at `The Rockpile’, I received shrapnel wounds.
Recognition:
Bronze Star Medal with Combat V
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
Presidential Unit Citation
Naval Unit Citation
Meritorious Unit Citation
National Defense Medal
Vietnamese Campaign Medal with four stars
Overseas Service Ribbon
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold and Silver Star
Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation
RVN Civil Action Palm
Vietnam Service Medal
One of the greatest honors I have ever had was leading 270 men in combat for a year. As Ronald Reagan once wrote "Some people work an entire lifetime and wonder if they ever made a difference to the world. But the Marines don't have that problem."
Semper Fi
Lonnie Palm, HHSA
Branch of Service: United States Army
Length of Service: May 1973 – May 1976
I enlisted at the beginning of the all-volunteer Army at age 19. My first duty station was in Turkey near Istanbul for twelve months. In 1974 tensions between Turkey and Greece mounted concerning the island of Cyprus. At that time I had purchased a round trip ticket on a Turkish airline to visit the southern Mediterranean coastline of that country for three days. Permission was given by my commanding officer to take the trip. On the final day there I returned to the airport only to discover that it was closed off to the general public and taken over by the Turkish military. I contacted the base by telephone (not cell) and purchased a bus ticket with $1.25 remaining for the cross-country trek. During the bus trek an Army captain from my base also boarded. It was a good feeling to know that I wasn’t alone.
Mike Dick, General Services
U.S. Army, ’71 to ‘74
25th Infantry Division 147th Aviation Co. CH-47 Chinooks
Barbers Point Naval Air Station, HI
They were just two weeks back from Viet Nam.
U.S Army National Guard ’84 to 2001 Retired MSG
40th Infantry Division 240th Forward Support Battalion
David Lampley, Probation
I enlisted in the US Army on June 1, 1970 and trained at Ft. Tacoma, WA and Fort Jackson, SC before being sent to Fifth Corps Support Command at Hanau, Germany. Volunteering for Vietnam in 1971, I served at Cam Ranh Bay, Danang and Long Binh for nine months as all units were being sent home around that time. From 72 to 73, I was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, a few miles from home. Honorable Discharge on May 31, 1973 as a Specialist 4th Class. Notable experience was sending two weeks in Managua, Nicaragua in Dec. 72 with a MASH unit supporting the country after a earthquake. I also spent one year in the Texas National Guard in 1974.
I enlisted in the US Navy in March 77 and served on USS Chicago (CG-11), USS Durham (LKA-114) and deployed to the Pacific on 5 occasions, three times as a member of Cruiser-Destroyer Group One on board the USS Long Beach, USS New Jersey and USS Midway. I retired in March 1977 as a E6, Operations Specialist First Class. All my time was spent in San Diego except for a two year tour on the minesweeper, USS Fearless (MSO-442) from 81 to 83.
Pete Jacovino, ARCC
I proudly served for 20 years 9 months and 1 day in the US Navy as a Lithographer. Often asked “if you could do it over again, would you”, always answered "heck yeah!" People pay good money to sail around the world and I always felt fortunate to be paid to sail around the world. Sure there were family separations, but they came along with the adventure. Our family always felt that the separations made you stronger.
One of the lasting memories I will always have tucked away in the military portion of my mind was floating around in the mined waters off the coast of Kuwait in the spring of 1991 for 45 days wondering, what if, and another would be riding a typhoon for the better part of 8 hours. Fun stuff!
Seriously, it was a great career, and heck yeah, I’d do it all over again. Anchors Aweigh!
Nina Gordon, Probation
I joined the military as a 2nd Lt in the Army Nurse Corps. My first assignment was the Newborn Nursery, Fort Ord, Monterey, a far cry away from the fighting in Vietnam. I remember the broken minds and the broken bodies of the men and women who were fortunate enough to return home. I also remember being in uniform, standing outside the subway in N.Y., and having to experience less than complimentary comments from people who didn’t think we should be in Vietnam. I am proud to have served my country. But I sometimes think the honorable title of veteran should be reserved only for those who served on the front lines. I salute those veterans, my fellow Americans, who put their lives and limbs on the line for the rest of us.
Doug Ailshie, HHSA
United States Army - Sept. 1972 to June 1974
Military Policeman – Specialist 4th Class
Tour of duty (16 mos.) - Camp Long Support Detachment
Wonju, Korea
I was part of the last draft during the Viet Nam War era.
My orders were amended to Korea from Viet Nam during the last week of advanced training @ Ft. Gordon, Georgia.
Jose Mallari, Public Works
I belong to an endangered species that is well on its way to extinction unless a saving treaty takes effect soon. As a Filipino citizen and non-resident of the United States in 1989, I joined the US Navy at the Subic Bay Recruiting Station in the Philippines by virtue of Article XXVII of the 14 March 1947 Military Bases Agreement between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. This agreement was abolished with the 1992 closure of US Military Bases in the Philippines. I served in the USS Dixon (AS-37), deployed to the Middle East during the Persian Gulf War, and was honorably discharged in 1993. Now an attorney, I have recently initiated an advocacy to seek restoration of US Navy Recruiting in the Philippines via re-negotiation of the Visiting Forces Agreement.
Jerry Wilkins, HHSA
Service: U.S. Marine Corps
Dates of Active Service: 11/23/65 to 11/23/69
Inactive Reserve: 11/23/69 to 11/23/71
Rank at induction: Private (E-1)
Rank at discharge: Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Duty Stations:
U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (Basic Training)
Marine Corps Schools, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Republic of Vietnam (Chu Lai/Danang/Phu Bai) with 11th Marine Regiment (Artillery), 1st Marine Division – October 1966 to November 1967
Participated in 5 major operations against VC/NVA
28th Marine Regiment (Infantry), Camp Pendleton – November 1967 to November 1969
Recognition:
Combat Action Ribbon
Good Conduct Medal
Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Meritorious Promotion to Corporal (E-4)
Meritorious Promotion to Sergeant (E-5)
Meritorious Promotion to Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Jennifer Reynolds, HHSA
I served in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. I served my country with the Marine Mag units as well as the VP67 Naval Air group, learning skills such as Emergency Medicine, Minor Surgery & Diagnosing sick sailors and Marines. I will never forget my brothers and sisters that stood beside me to assure our freedom.
Franco Lopez is on the right.Franco Lopez, Auditor & Controller
USMC 1999 – 2004
Memorable Events:
Weeks with no bed, little sleep, no shower, and no toilets at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003; no problem, we had plenty of ammo and a mission.
Coming out in one piece after countless conveys.
Setting up camp at the ruins of the ancient city of Babylon.
Mourning friends and colleagues.
Final Awards:
Combat Action Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Marine Corp Good Conduct
Presidential Unit Citation
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Sol Masangkay, Parks & Recreation
U.S. Navy, 1980-1991
Service: Antisubmarine Squadron 29, NAS North Island 1980-1983 (aboard USS Kitty Hawk, CV-61 in 1981 and aboard USS Carl Vinson, CVN-70 in 1983 on its first cruise)
NAS Miramar Supply Department, 1984-1987
USS Tripoli, LPH 10, 1987-1991 (Desert Storm veteran)
Doug Stauffer, General Services
1973-1994, US Navy Civil Engineer Corps
See the world- every move I made was across an ocean. I went from Mississippi to Okinawa to Puerto Rico to Hawaii to Diego Garcia to Georgia to Italy to New York to Japan, ending in San Diego. Best assignment: landed on Diego Garcia 2 weeks after the Iranian hostage-taking and witnessed the place go from a sleepy little backwater to the nexus of US military strength. Within months we had more Seabees on the island than anywhere else in the world. Seven day a week construction operations supporting fleet forces in the Persian Gulf.
Tony Avina, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I actively served in the US Army from 1987-1990. I remained as an inactive member of the US Army until 1995. I was stationed in Frederick, Maryland at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases-Bacteriology Division. I was Biological Sciences Assistant in the Anthrax Biological Research team. Our team was responsible to optimize the Anthrax vaccine, which was used by military personnel during the 1990 Persian Gulf War. I am a Persian Gulf War veteran. I was honorably discharged in 1990.
In addition, I also served in the California National Guard from 1992-1995. I was honorably discharged in 1995.
Harold Randolph, HHSA
United States Marine Corps, September 1974 to August 1995
I served as Administrator, Inspector/Instructor, Recruiter, Group Administrative Chief, Classified Document Courier, Company Gunny and Administrative Analyst. Places stationed or visited: North and South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; all states with Marine Corps Units west of the Mississippi and all Marine Units in the Western Pacific. Most memorable assignment was “Operation Restore Hope” Mogadishu, Somalia from December 1992 to May 1993. Most time spent overseas, 18 months in Subic Bay, Philippines. Most fun had was flying (not piloting) when stationed with VMO-1 “Can Do” and with VMO-4 “Bronco”. Call Signs used: “Guru” and “Reverend”. Continents visited – 6. Countries visited – 28. Ready to do it all over again!!!
Happy 238th Birthday Marines! (November 10, 1775 – 2013)
Semper Fi
Rolando Indiongco, Probation
I proudly served in the United States Navy for 30 years and 14 days. I travelled to more places around the world in 30 years that most people do in a lifetime, all for free, thanks to the multiple aircraft carriers wherein I served. I was promoted to the rank only 1 percent of the enlisted military attain: Master Chief Petty Officer. I started serving following the conclusion of the Vietnam War. I also served in the Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and many others. I salute all of my fellow veterans.
Timothy Henry, HHSA
I served almost 13 years in the Navy, worked on aircraft avionics systems mostly on the SH-2F and SH-60B helicopters. In the middle of my Navy career I was assigned to VX-1. This is the squadron that tests any new Antisubmarine Warfare aircraft and equipment. At this squadron we had five different types of aircraft both helicopters and fixed wing.
April Heinze, General Services
Join the Navy and See the World-that was the recruiting line that attracted me to the Navy. The 1970’s were the early days of expanded opportunities for women in the military and I was fortunate to receive a Navy ROTC scholarship to attend engineering school, serve my Country as a Civil Engineer Corps officer around the world, and become the third woman ever promoted to the rank of Captain in my specialty.
Memorable events include:
Seabees-the honor of leading the most dedicated and energetic young people to build and repair almost anything, anywhere
Shipyards-3 Navy shipyards, crawling through utility tunnels, repairing WWII damage in Pearl Harbor, and the eerie silence of the USS Arizona memorial
Diplomacy-bi-lateral exercises in Korea and Thailand, drinking vodka with generals in Russia
Disasters-earthquake recovery and monsoons in the Philippines, outrunning typhoons in the Pacific
Conflicts-landing in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Marines just 8 days after Iraq invaded Kuwait in the first Gulf War
Congress-watching our democracy at work, preparing testimony for appointees, briefing staffers on the hill, sitting in hearings directly behind the principals
9-11-flying cross-country on military aircraft with senior political appointees to return to D.C. when all commercial aircraft were grounded, returning to the Pentagon on 9-12 to find over 90% of the military and civilian employees continuing to work for freedom
Diane Jones, Health and Human Services
Eight years active duty service with the US Army. I am a disabled veteran who participated in Desert Storm as a combat medic. Throughout my military career I was stationed in some exotic and not so exotic places just to name a few: Ft Leonard Wood Missouri, Ft Sam Houston Texas, Tripler Army Medical Center Hawaii and Madigan Army Medical Center, Washington. While serving I became a Department of Defense Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, one of only 50 of us at the time Army wide.
Carlos Renstrom, Parks & Recreation
I served as a Human Resources Specialist (42A) in the U.S. Army. I was stationed in Columbia, South Carolina and Schofield Barracks in the island of Oahu, Hawaii, where I completed active duty.
During active duty, I was part of the Personnel Action Center for the 84th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy) in the 25th Infantry Division (Light) providing Human Resources services to 600 soldiers and their families. I was in charge of processing military personnel promotions, demotions, personnel actions, leadership briefings, data processing as well as making sure that soldiers and their families were receiving military benefits and counseling as needed during deployments. In 2004, I received the Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Marksman on M16 and M249 Rifle, Expert on Grenade and Overseas Medal.
Anne Greenstone, HHSA
I joined the Air Force Nurse Corps after college to earn the GI Bill to pay for grad school. I was assigned to Carswell AFB Texas 3/ 1972-3/ 1974. In early May 72 all active duty men on the base (pilots, crew, nurses) were hurriedly assembled and flown to Viet Nam in one night for the Tet offensive. Noise from departing planes kept me awake all night. All male RNs were gone. I worked the orthopedic ward caring for the war wounded . What a rambunctious group, mostly ages 18-20. One night I was surprised by flight staff entering the ED with a group of ill men- POWs coming home to Texas. I separated in March 1974. I went directly to UCLA. I was awarded my MN degree from UCLA in 1978. The GI Bill paid for living expenses. I earned it.
James Boyd, County Counsel
1972 – 1975 U.S. Army, Special 5, US Army Legal Services Agency, Europe
1975- 1977 U.S. Army Reserves (E-5)
1977 – 1980 U.S. Marine Corps, Lance Corporal until Enlisted Commissioning Program (OCS), 1st Lieutenant, Infantry
Dale Santee, Alternate Public Defender
Colonel Dale W. Santee was the senior individual mobilization augmentee to the staff judge advocate, HQ Pacific Air Force, Hickam AFB, HI. Commissioned as a reserve officer through the Direct Appointment Program, he served on active duty as an Air Force judge advocate from January 7, 1979 to August 8, 1983. He deployed twice in support of peacekeeping operations in Bosnia with the Tanker Task Force based in Pisa, Italy for Operations Deny Flight and Joint Endeavor. In December 1996, he deployed to Istres, France in support of Operation Joint Guard. From August 2000 to December 2000, Colonel Santee deployed for Operation Southern Watch to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the first reserve Staff Judge Advocate of an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF 9). He was an adjunct instructor at the Judge Advocate General School, Montgomery, AL, Pacific Joint Operations Law Exercise, HI and the International Institute of Humanitarian Law, San Remo, Italy.
Robert Contreras, Housing and Community Development
I served in the United States Navy from January 1976 until January of 1980. That is what brought me to San Diego. I enjoy my time in the Navy, especially the traveling. But what I remember most is meeting persons from my hometown of Schertz, Texas. The most memorable one was when I arrived at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. I was checked in by an Air Force sergeant who I had met when I was a teenager. I lived next to a Air Force base and I often hung at the gym. This sergeant worked with my uncle. Boy, was he surprised to see me. After I finished my enlistment, I decided to stay in San Diego as I fell in love with the city on my first visit.
Greg Locke, General Services
I served 21 years of active duty with the United States Marine Corps. The leadership traits that I witnessed while in the Marines Corps are something I have tried to emulate on a daily basis and will continue to for the rest of my life. I have lived in a number of unique areas of the world; I spent four months living in a tent in Yechon, Korea, spent time in the western Egyptian desert, saw the rainbows are formed when the desert sands blow off the coast of Tunisia in the evening and saw my daughter born in a hospital in Japan. I hope that all the veterans will enjoy this special holiday on November 11, 2011.
Manuel Garcia (right) with former County employee Robert Roberson.Manuel Garcia, HHSA
Active Duty
United States Army Feb. 1973 to July 1976
52nd Construction Engineer Battalion
220th Field Artillery,
Fort Carson, Colorado
United States Army Ready Reserve-1976-1987
129th Med. Evac. Hospital (Must Unit)-Admiral Baker Field
177th Transportation Company-Camp Pendleton
Tom Philipp, Auditor & Controller
Submarine Service – Cold War (1977-1983). Nuke machinist on USS HADDO SSN604. Home port – San Diego. Longest submerged – 45 days when Iran held US hostages. How does it feel underwater? A bit like an airplane, especially when they do ‘angles and dangles.’
Jay Patterson, ARCC
Rank: Dental Technician 1st Class
Branch: United States Navy (Retired)
Service: March 1976 to March 1996
Specialties: Medical/Dental Administration & Oral Surgery Technician
Commands:
(a) Overseas Command: NAS Agana Guam [Sep 76 to Mar 79]
(b) Sea Commands:
USS Coronado (AGF-11) [Apr 81 to Apr 82] – Persian Gulf Command Ship
USS Hunley (AS-31) [May 82 – Dec 83] – Holy Loch Scotland
USS Long Beach (CGN-9) [Jan 87 – Jun 90] – Pacific Fleet
USS Rushmore (LSD-47) [Aug 93 – Mar 96] – Pacific Fleet
Shore Commands:
(1) Naval Hospital, NAS Whidbey Island WA
(2) Naval Regional Dental Center, San Diego, CA
(3) Naval Supply Center, San Diego CA
(4) Fleet Dental Office, US Pacific Fleet
Notables:
(a) Sailed around the world in 1987.
(b) Set foot on every continent on this earth.
(c) Five tours of duty to Persian Gulf region (combat and non-combat).
(d) Lots of memories…
Kristie Makowsky, HHSA
I joined the United States Army right out of high school. I served for four years, on 3 different bases – Fort Polk, LA, Fort Gordon, GA and Fort Jackson, SC. I was the first female Radar Technician recruited right after the Vietnam war. I learned a lot in the Army and my veteran’s benefits are the only reason I was able to purchase my home. My son is following in my path and will be reporting to Fort Jackson, SC in March 2012.
Moises Rivera, Probation
USN 1989-1993. I served on the USS Vincennes CG-49.
Daniel E. Chesler, HHSA
U.S. Navy, served on ships escorting tankers during the ‘Tanker War’ and had a front row seat during Operation Preying Mantis.
In honor of Veterans Day, we are recognizing current County employees who have served in the armed forces. Thanks to those veterans who chose to share their stories and thank you to all veterans for your service.
Alan Reddick, ARCC
US Army 1969-1971
Expert Badge M16a2 Rifle
175 Mm Howitzer Crew Member
Medic And X-Ray Technician
30th Field Hospital
Augsburg, Germany
Certificate. Of Appreciation
Honorable Discharge
Areleous Burton, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I spent four years in the US Army as a Personnel Administration Specialist, spending my last year in the Army with 82nd Airborne Division. I had a total of 15 jumps while with the 82nd. I also spent 16 years in the US Coast Guard as an ST (Sonar Technician) & ET (Electronics Technician), with my last five years as a COMSEC (Secure Communications) instructor.
Our Coast Guard Cutter was the first one on scene at the Exxon Valdez oil spill; another of my cutters was lead cutter of the Haitian Operation, bringing Haitians trying to come into the U.S. back to Gitmo (Guantanamo Bay, Cuba), temporarily until they could be repatriated. Honorably discharged at expiration of term of service.
Louis Johnson, HHSA
US Navy 1982-2002 (Operations Specialist)
Served aboard: USS Okinawa LPH-3
USS Essex-LHD-2
USS Tarawa LHA-1
Some ops:
Desert Storm/Shield
Nato operations Mogadishu
Relief to USS Cole
Awards
Nato award
Combat Action ribbon
Navy Achievement Medal
Sea Service
Good Conduct Award
Proud to serve and glad the Navy showed me the world.
George Gonzales, Sheriff's Department
Service: California Army National Guard
Active Duty: Dec 1976 – 1979, 1/325th IN, 82nd Airborne Division
US Army Reserve 1980 – 83, National Guard 1996 – Present
Present Rank: Sergeant Major (E-9)
Currently serving with the 40th Infantry Division, General's Staff - Future Plans and Strategy (G5)
Prior Assignments: First Sergeant - Headquarters Company, 40th Infantry Division.
First Sergeant - Headquarters Company 2/185th Battalion, 40th Infantry Division
Operations Sergeant, 2nd Brigade, 40th Infantry Division
Decorations, Awards and Citations:
Army Commendation Medal (4 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Army Achievement Medal (1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster)
Good Conduct Medal (Bronze Clasp 2 Loops)
National Defense Service Medal
NCO Professional Development Ribbon (Numeral 3)
Armed Forces Reserve Medal (M Device, X Device)
Army Service Ribbon
Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon (Numeral 3)
South Carolina State Ribbon
Parachutist Badge
Expert Badge (M9 Pistol)
Expert Badge (M16A2 Rifle)
Expert Badge (M67 Grenade)
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution
JTFWG ARFOR HQ, Certificate of Excellence
USAJ / 9th TAACOM, Certificate of Appreciation for Exceptional Service
40th I D, California, Certificate of Appreciation for Meritorious Service
Cited for Excellence by the Fort Knox Senior Observer Controller Team
Carmen Stamper, HHSA
US Navy (New Orleans, Pearl Harbor, San Diego)
Assigned to a Unit that provided communications for the Seabees.
The cell phones back then were heavy, bulky and big (about 9”).
Andrew Strong participating in a mass casualty drill aboard USS Ronald Reagan.Andrew Strong, Human Resources
Service: United States Navy, Hospital Corpsman, 1998 - 2007
Designations: Fleet Marine Force/ Surface Warfare/ Air Warfare
Duty Stations:
Camp Johnson, North Carolina
Camp lejeune, North Carolina
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina
Naval Submarine Base Bangor, Silverdale, Washington
USS Ronald Reagan CVN 76, North Island
Winston McColl, Purchasing & Contracting
Winston served 28 years in the United States Army retiring as a Colonel. During that time he served two tours in Vietnam, first as a combat engineer, while the second tour he served as an infantry officer. His numerous assignments took him to places around the globe from Vietnam, Germany, and South Korea, to Paris, France in the fields of intelligence and acquisition. His final tour of duty involved the command of over 500 civilians and military in Van Nuys, CA overseeing $18 billion dollars in DOD contracts,
Winston was awarded three bronze stars, earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Jump Wings, and graduated from Ranger School earning him the Ranger Tab. He is also a graduate of the US Army’s War College.
Mary Santos, Public Works
U.S. Navy
Radioman 2nd Class
I served in U.S. Navy from 1973 – 1977
I am proud to have served my country!
Steve Spence, Environmental Health
I enlisted in the Navy at the age of 19 in July 1973, one month before direct military involvement ended in Vietnam. After training in Electronics Technology at Great Lakes, Ill, I was stationed for two years in Spain when it was under the authoritarian regime of General Franco. The Navy then brought me to Long Beach and San Diego where I was stationed on the USS Towers (DDG-9) highlighted by visits to many countries during an eight month deployment to the Pacific.
Ramon Bilbao, Parks & Recreation
I served in U.S. Navy aboard the following ships:
USS Jarrett (FFG-33)
USS Ranger (CV-61)
USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)
USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62)
I’ve participated in Operation Desert Storm, Restore Hope, and Iraqi Freedom.
Tara Harre, Probation
1996 – Present. Fifteen years ago I joined the Army Reserve as a Private (E-3), and I continue to serve today as a Captain (O-3). During these last fifteen years, I have traveled the world, jumped from planes, and served in combat. I truly feel that I am a stronger person from the experiences that I have endured from the military. I am a proud veteran and am going for my 20 - HOOAH!
Chairman Bill Horn, County Supervisor District 5
Service: USMC
Dates of Active Duty: July 1966-December 1970
Active reserve: 1970-1978
Rank at Discharge: Captain
I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1966 after graduating from SDSU. In 1968, I was promoted to 1st Lieutenant and sent to the jungles of Vietnam where I joined the Kilo 4/13 as the Executive Officer. Later that same year, I was promoted to Commanding Officer of Lima Battery 4th Battalion 12th Marines, 3rd MAR DIV RVN. While my Battery was under fire at `The Rockpile’, I received shrapnel wounds.
Recognition:
Bronze Star Medal with Combat V
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
Presidential Unit Citation
Naval Unit Citation
Meritorious Unit Citation
National Defense Medal
Vietnamese Campaign Medal with four stars
Overseas Service Ribbon
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold and Silver Star
Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation
RVN Civil Action Palm
Vietnam Service Medal
One of the greatest honors I have ever had was leading 270 men in combat for a year. As Ronald Reagan once wrote "Some people work an entire lifetime and wonder if they ever made a difference to the world. But the Marines don't have that problem."
Semper Fi
Deborah Doggett, Environmental Health
US Navy 1985-2005, HMC, MTS
2002-2005 Pentagon Force Protection Agency, Chemical, Biological, Nuclear, and Radiological Directorate
Provided Biological Warfare Surveillance for the National Capitol Region
1999-2002 Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit #5
Navy’s only CDC Level B Laboratory for Biological Warfare testing
Forward Deployed Preventive Medicine Unit
Disease Outbreak Investigations, Published work on Norovirus
1996-1999 Naval Medical Clinic Pearl Harbor
1991-1996 National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda Maryland
President Clinton’s medical team
Laboratory Liaison for 14 branch medical clinic laboratories
1989-1991 Naval Hospital Guam
1986-1989 Naval Hospital San Diego/ Naval School of Health Sciences
Award Highlights:
Joint Services Meritorious Service Medal
Navy Commendation Medals
Navy Achievement Medals
Favorite Memories:
Deploying to the Gulf to investigate a very large Norovirus outbreak 425 cases on one carrier! Boy were we busy!
Working directly for President Clinton
Working with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force at the Pentagon
Guam and Hawaii – enough said, lol
Lonnie Palm, HHSA
Branch of Service: United States Army
Length of Service: May 1973 – May 1976
I enlisted at the beginning of the all-volunteer Army at age 19. My first duty station was in Turkey near Istanbul for twelve months. In 1974 tensions between Turkey and Greece mounted concerning the island of Cyprus. At that time I had purchased a round trip ticket on a Turkish airline to visit the southern Mediterranean coastline of that country for three days. Permission was given by my commanding officer to take the trip. On the final day there I returned to the airport only to discover that it was closed off to the general public and taken over by the Turkish military. I contacted the base by telephone (not cell) and purchased a bus ticket with $1.25 remaining for the cross-country trek. During the bus trek an Army captain from my base also boarded. It was a good feeling to know that I wasn’t alone.
Mike Dick, General Services
U.S. Army, ’71 to ‘74
25th Infantry Division 147th Aviation Co. CH-47 Chinooks
Barbers Point Naval Air Station, HI
They were just two weeks back from Viet Nam.
U.S Army National Guard ’84 to 2001 Retired MSG
40th Infantry Division 240th Forward Support Battalion
David Lampley, Probation
I enlisted in the US Army on June 1, 1970 and trained at Ft. Tacoma, WA and Fort Jackson, SC before being sent to Fifth Corps Support Command at Hanau, Germany. Volunteering for Vietnam in 1971, I served at Cam Ranh Bay, Danang and Long Binh for nine months as all units were being sent home around that time. From 72 to 73, I was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, a few miles from home. Honorable Discharge on May 31, 1973 as a Specialist 4th Class. Notable experience was sending two weeks in Managua, Nicaragua in Dec. 72 with a MASH unit supporting the country after a earthquake. I also spent one year in the Texas National Guard in 1974.
I enlisted in the US Navy in March 77 and served on USS Chicago (CG-11), USS Durham (LKA-114) and deployed to the Pacific on 5 occasions, three times as a member of Cruiser-Destroyer Group One on board the USS Long Beach, USS New Jersey and USS Midway. I retired in March 1977 as a E6, Operations Specialist First Class. All my time was spent in San Diego except for a two year tour on the minesweeper, USS Fearless (MSO-442) from 81 to 83.
Pete Jacovino, ARCC
I proudly served for 20 years 9 months and 1 day in the US Navy as a Lithographer. Often asked “if you could do it over again, would you”, always answered "heck yeah!" People pay good money to sail around the world and I always felt fortunate to be paid to sail around the world. Sure there were family separations, but they came along with the adventure. Our family always felt that the separations made you stronger.
One of the lasting memories I will always have tucked away in the military portion of my mind was floating around in the mined waters off the coast of Kuwait in the spring of 1991 for 45 days wondering, what if, and another would be riding a typhoon for the better part of 8 hours. Fun stuff!
Seriously, it was a great career, and heck yeah, I’d do it all over again. Anchors Aweigh!
Nina Gordon, Probation
I joined the military as a 2nd Lt in the Army Nurse Corps. My first assignment was the Newborn Nursery, Fort Ord, Monterey, a far cry away from the fighting in Vietnam. I remember the broken minds and the broken bodies of the men and women who were fortunate enough to return home. I also remember being in uniform, standing outside the subway in N.Y., and having to experience less than complimentary comments from people who didn’t think we should be in Vietnam. I am proud to have served my country. But I sometimes think the honorable title of veteran should be reserved only for those who served on the front lines. I salute those veterans, my fellow Americans, who put their lives and limbs on the line for the rest of us.
Doug Ailshie, HHSA
United States Army - Sept. 1972 to June 1974
Military Policeman – Specialist 4th Class
Tour of duty (16 mos.) - Camp Long Support Detachment
Wonju, Korea
I was part of the last draft during the Viet Nam War era.
My orders were amended to Korea from Viet Nam during the last week of advanced training @ Ft. Gordon, Georgia.
Jose Mallari, Public Works
I belong to an endangered species that is well on its way to extinction unless a saving treaty takes effect soon. As a Filipino citizen and non-resident of the United States in 1989, I joined the US Navy at the Subic Bay Recruiting Station in the Philippines by virtue of Article XXVII of the 14 March 1947 Military Bases Agreement between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. This agreement was abolished with the 1992 closure of US Military Bases in the Philippines. I served in the USS Dixon (AS-37), deployed to the Middle East during the Persian Gulf War, and was honorably discharged in 1993. Now an attorney, I have recently initiated an advocacy to seek restoration of US Navy Recruiting in the Philippines via re-negotiation of the Visiting Forces Agreement.
Jerry Wilkins, HHSA
Service: U.S. Marine Corps
Dates of Active Service: 11/23/65 to 11/23/69
Inactive Reserve: 11/23/69 to 11/23/71
Rank at induction: Private (E-1)
Rank at discharge: Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Duty Stations:
U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (Basic Training)
Marine Corps Schools, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Republic of Vietnam (Chu Lai/Danang/Phu Bai) with 11th Marine Regiment (Artillery), 1st Marine Division – October 1966 to November 1967
Participated in 5 major operations against VC/NVA
28th Marine Regiment (Infantry), Camp Pendleton – November 1967 to November 1969
Recognition:
Combat Action Ribbon
Good Conduct Medal
Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Meritorious Promotion to Corporal (E-4)
Meritorious Promotion to Sergeant (E-5)
Meritorious Promotion to Staff Sergeant (E-6)
Jennifer Reynolds, HHSA
I served in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. I served my country with the Marine Mag units as well as the VP67 Naval Air group, learning skills such as Emergency Medicine, Minor Surgery & Diagnosing sick sailors and Marines. I will never forget my brothers and sisters that stood beside me to assure our freedom.
Franco Lopez is on the right.Franco Lopez, Auditor & Controller
USMC 1999 – 2004
Memorable Events:
Weeks with no bed, little sleep, no shower, and no toilets at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003; no problem, we had plenty of ammo and a mission.
Coming out in one piece after countless conveys.
Setting up camp at the ruins of the ancient city of Babylon.
Mourning friends and colleagues.
Final Awards:
Combat Action Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Marine Corp Good Conduct
Presidential Unit Citation
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
National Defense Service Medal
Sol Masangkay, Parks & Recreation
U.S. Navy, 1980-1991
Service: Antisubmarine Squadron 29, NAS North Island 1980-1983 (aboard USS Kitty Hawk, CV-61 in 1981 and aboard USS Carl Vinson, CVN-70 in 1983 on its first cruise)
NAS Miramar Supply Department, 1984-1987
USS Tripoli, LPH 10, 1987-1991 (Desert Storm veteran)
Doug Stauffer, General Services
1973-1994, US Navy Civil Engineer Corps
See the world- every move I made was across an ocean. I went from Mississippi to Okinawa to Puerto Rico to Hawaii to Diego Garcia to Georgia to Italy to New York to Japan, ending in San Diego. Best assignment: landed on Diego Garcia 2 weeks after the Iranian hostage-taking and witnessed the place go from a sleepy little backwater to the nexus of US military strength. Within months we had more Seabees on the island than anywhere else in the world. Seven day a week construction operations supporting fleet forces in the Persian Gulf.
Tony Avina, Agriculture/Weights & Measures
I actively served in the US Army from 1987-1990. I remained as an inactive member of the US Army until 1995. I was stationed in Frederick, Maryland at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases-Bacteriology Division. I was Biological Sciences Assistant in the Anthrax Biological Research team. Our team was responsible to optimize the Anthrax vaccine, which was used by military personnel during the 1990 Persian Gulf War. I am a Persian Gulf War veteran. I was honorably discharged in 1990.
In addition, I also served in the California National Guard from 1992-1995. I was honorably discharged in 1995.
Harold Randolph, HHSA
United States Marine Corps, September 1974 to August 1995
I served as Administrator, Inspector/Instructor, Recruiter, Group Administrative Chief, Classified Document Courier, Company Gunny and Administrative Analyst. Places stationed or visited: North and South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; all states with Marine Corps Units west of the Mississippi and all Marine Units in the Western Pacific. Most memorable assignment was “Operation Restore Hope” Mogadishu, Somalia from December 1992 to May 1993. Most time spent overseas, 18 months in Subic Bay, Philippines. Most fun had was flying (not piloting) when stationed with VMO-1 “Can Do” and with VMO-4 “Bronco”. Call Signs used: “Guru” and “Reverend”. Continents visited – 6. Countries visited – 28. Ready to do it all over again!!!
Happy 236th Birthday Marines! (November 10, 1775 – 2011)
Semper Fi
Rolando Indiongco, Probation
I proudly served in the United States Navy for 30 years and 14 days. I travelled to more places around the world in 30 years that most people do in a lifetime, all for free, thanks to the multiple aircraft carriers wherein I served. I was promoted to the rank only 1 percent of the enlisted military attain: Master Chief Petty Officer. I started serving following the conclusion of the Vietnam War. I also served in the Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and many others. I salute all of my fellow veterans.
Timothy Henry, HHSA
I served almost 13 years in the Navy, worked on aircraft avionics systems mostly on the SH-2F and SH-60B helicopters. In the middle of my Navy career I was assigned to VX-1. This is the squadron that tests any new Antisubmarine Warfare aircraft and equipment. At this squadron we had five different types of aircraft both helicopters and fixed wing.
April Heinze, General Services
Join the Navy and See the World-that was the recruiting line that attracted me to the Navy. The 1970’s were the early days of expanded opportunities for women in the military and I was fortunate to receive a Navy ROTC scholarship to attend engineering school, serve my Country as a Civil Engineer Corps officer around the world, and become the third woman ever promoted to the rank of Captain in my specialty.
Memorable events include:
Seabees-the honor of leading the most dedicated and energetic young people to build and repair almost anything, anywhere
Shipyards-3 Navy shipyards, crawling through utility tunnels, repairing WWII damage in Pearl Harbor, and the eerie silence of the USS Arizona memorial
Diplomacy-bi-lateral exercises in Korea and Thailand, drinking vodka with generals in Russia
Disasters-earthquake recovery and monsoons in the Philippines, outrunning typhoons in the Pacific
Conflicts-landing in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Marines just 8 days after Iraq invaded Kuwait in the first Gulf War
Congress-watching our democracy at work, preparing testimony for appointees, briefing staffers on the hill, sitting in hearings directly behind the principals
9-11-flying cross-country on military aircraft with senior political appointees to return to D.C. when all commercial aircraft were grounded, returning to the Pentagon on 9-12 to find over 90% of the military and civilian employees continuing to work for freedom
Diane Cook, Purchasing and Contracting
Eight years active duty service with the US Army. I am a disabled veteran who participated in Desert Storm as a combat medic. Throughout my military career I was stationed in some exotic and not so exotic places just to name a few: Ft Leonard Wood Missouri, Ft Sam Houston Texas, Tripler Army Medical Center Hawaii and Madigan Army Medical Center, Washington. While serving I became a Department of Defense Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, one of only 50 of us at the time Army wide.
Norm Taylor, General Services
US Army, ’62-’65. Ist Inf. Div., 33rd Arty. Berlin Brigade, ’63.
Carlos Renstrom, Parks & Recreation
I served as a Human Resources Specialist (42A) in the U.S. Army. I was stationed in Columbia, South Carolina and Schofield Barracks in the island of Oahu, Hawaii, where I completed active duty.
During active duty, I was part of the Personnel Action Center for the 84th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy) in the 25th Infantry Division (Light) providing Human Resources services to 600 soldiers and their families. I was in charge of processing military personnel promotions, demotions, personnel actions, leadership briefings, data processing as well as making sure that soldiers and their families were receiving military benefits and counseling as needed during deployments. In 2004, I received the Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Marksman on M16 and M249 Rifle, Expert on Grenade and Overseas Medal.
Anne Greenstone, HHSA
I joined the Air Force Nurse Corps after college to earn the GI Bill to pay for grad school. I was assigned to Carswell AFB Texas 3/ 1972-3/ 1974. In early May 72 all active duty men on the base (pilots, crew, nurses) were hurriedly assembled and flown to Viet Nam in one night for the Tet offensive. Noise from departing planes kept me awake all night. All male RNs were gone. I worked the orthopedic ward caring for the war wounded . What a rambunctious group, mostly ages 18-20. One night I was surprised by flight staff entering the ED with a group of ill men- POWs coming home to Texas. I separated in March 1974. I went directly to UCLA. I was awarded my MN degree from UCLA in 1978. The GI Bill paid for living expenses. I earned it.
James Boyd, County Counsel
1972 – 1975 U.S. Army, Special 5, US Army Legal Services Agency, Europe
1975- 1977 U.S. Army Reserves (E-5)
1977 – 1980 U.S. Marine Corps, Lance Corporal until Enlisted Commissioning Program (OCS), 1st Lieutenant, Infantry
Dale Santee, Alternate Public Defender
Colonel Dale W. Santee was the senior individual mobilization augmentee to the staff judge advocate, HQ Pacific Air Force, Hickam AFB, HI. Commissioned as a reserve officer through the Direct Appointment Program, he served on active duty as an Air Force judge advocate from January 7, 1979 to August 8, 1983. He deployed twice in support of peacekeeping operations in Bosnia with the Tanker Task Force based in Pisa, Italy for Operations Deny Flight and Joint Endeavor. In December 1996, he deployed to Istres, France in support of Operation Joint Guard. From August 2000 to December 2000, Colonel Santee deployed for Operation Southern Watch to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the first reserve Staff Judge Advocate of an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF 9). He was an adjunct instructor at the Judge Advocate General School, Montgomery, AL, Pacific Joint Operations Law Exercise, HI and the International Institute of Humanitarian Law, San Remo, Italy.
Robert Contreras, Housing and Community Development
I served in the United States Navy from January 1976 until January of 1980. That is what brought me to San Diego. I enjoy my time in the Navy, especially the traveling. But what I remember most is meeting persons from my hometown of Schertz, Texas. The most memorable one was when I arrived at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. I was checked in by an Air Force sergeant who I had met when I was a teenager. I lived next to a Air Force base and I often hung at the gym. This sergeant worked with my uncle. Boy, was he surprised to see me. After I finished my enlistment, I decided to stay in San Diego as I fell in love with the city on my first visit.
Greg Locke, General Services
I served 21 years of active duty with the United States Marine Corps. The leadership traits that I witnessed while in the Marines Corps are something I have tried to emulate on a daily basis and will continue to for the rest of my life. I have lived in a number of unique areas of the world; I spent four months living in a tent in Yechon, Korea, spent time in the western Egyptian desert, saw the rainbows are formed when the desert sands blow off the coast of Tunisia in the evening and saw my daughter born in a hospital in Japan. I hope that all the veterans will enjoy this special holiday on November 11, 2011.
Manuel Garcia (right) with former County employee Robert Roberson.Manuel Garcia, HHSA
Active Duty
United States Army Feb. 1973 to July 1976
52nd Construction Engineer Battalion
220th Field Artillery,
Fort Carson, Colorado
United States Army Ready Reserve-1976-1987
129th Med. Evac. Hospital (Must Unit)-Admiral Baker Field
177th Transportation Company-Camp Pendleton
Tom Philipp, Auditor & Controller
Submarine Service – Cold War (1977-1983). Nuke machinist on USS HADDO SSN604. Home port – San Diego. Longest submerged – 45 days when Iran held US hostages. How does it feel underwater? A bit like an airplane, especially when they do ‘angles and dangles.’
Jay Patterson, ARCC
Rank: Dental Technician 1st Class
Branch: United States Navy (Retired)
Service: March 1976 to March 1996
Specialties: Medical/Dental Administration & Oral Surgery Technician
Commands:
(a) Overseas Command: NAS Agana Guam [Sep 76 to Mar 79]
(b) Sea Commands:
USS Coronado (AGF-11) [Apr 81 to Apr 82] – Persian Gulf Command Ship
USS Hunley (AS-31) [May 82 – Dec 83] – Holy Loch Scotland
USS Long Beach (CGN-9) [Jan 87 – Jun 90] – Pacific Fleet
USS Rushmore (LSD-47) [Aug 93 – Mar 96] – Pacific Fleet
Shore Commands:
(1) Naval Hospital, NAS Whidbey Island WA
(2) Naval Regional Dental Center, San Diego, CA
(3) Naval Supply Center, San Diego CA
(4) Fleet Dental Office, US Pacific Fleet
Notables:
(a) Sailed around the world in 1987.
(b) Set foot on every continent on this earth.
(c) Five tours of duty to Persian Gulf region (combat and non-combat).
(d) Lots of memories…
Kristie Makowsky, HHSA
I joined the United States Army right out of high school. I served for four years, on 3 different bases – Fort Polk, LA, Fort Gordon, GA and Fort Jackson, SC. I was the first female Radar Technician recruited right after the Vietnam war. I learned a lot in the Army and my veteran’s benefits are the only reason I was able to purchase my home. My son is following in my path and will be reporting to Fort Jackson, SC in March 2012.
Moises Rivera, Probation
USN 1989-1993. I served on the USS Vincennes CG-49.
Sue Baker, HHSA
My name is Suzanne (Coffman) Baker. I was Suzanne E. Rafferty when I served in the United States Air Force Nurse Corps from 1969 until 1971. My duty station was Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, where I worked as a 1st Lieutenant in the 1000 bed hospital Wilford Hall. Though I worked on many medical-surgical units, my most memorable was my rotation to the burn unit where two of my patients were pilots that had been shot down in Vietnam. Military nursing was a good experience for me, and I was honorably discharged as Captain.
Jessie Frank, Public Works
I served in the USMC for more than twenty seven years. Participated in Desert Shield/Storm in 1991. My family can trace service in the Military for every conflict starting with the French and Indian Wars.
Daniel E. Chesler, HHSA
U.S. Navy, served on ships escorting tankers during the ‘Tanker War’ and had a front row seat during Operation Preying Mantis.
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