Jarrett Ray Amado

As a Navy Counselor and E-6, Petty Officer First Class Jarrett Ray Amado served with integrity and leadership in the United States Navy, advising sailors on career growth, retention, and advancement. Today, he continues his commitment to service as a Senior Benefits Advisor with the VA, advocating for veterans and assisting them in navigating their earned benefits.

I served in the active-duty Marine Corps, I was honorably discharged in 2013 after serving in Afghanistan and many other deployments.

Benito Balboa

“BENITO K. BALBOA
Proud U.S. Marine • Proud American
Devoted Father • Hardworking Provider
Proudly Honored by His Family

Semper Fi”.

Master Sergeant Alfredo A. Ballesteros Jr. served the United States Army with distinction for decades, exemplifying professionalism and discipline. A combat veteran of the Vietnam War, he rose to the position of First Sergeant and retired as a Master Sergeant, known for his courage and dedication to soldier development. His decorated service included the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm and the Army Commendation Medal. MSG Ballesteros Jr. is remembered as a devoted mentor whose honorable service remains a source of pride for his family and country.

Brian Brown

Brian Brown is an Arizona Native. Served with the 101st Airborne as an infantry soldier. Served in Iraq earning the combat infantry badge and the Army Commendation metal for valor actions during his time in combat. Resident now of Mesa. Served honorably and still plays are role in veterans mental health after the war.

 Michael Butler

Served nearly 23 years as an Aviation Machinist Mate, working on H-60 helicopters and E-2 aircraft. Performed additional duties as a Naval Aircrewman, Rescue Swimmer, and Instructor.

Jerome F Buza

MSG Jerome F. Buza Enlisted in the Michigan National Guard in January 1955. He discharged from the National Guard in 1958 and enlisted in the Army. In December of 1959 he went to Korea for one year. Then he was in Chicago 5th Army HQ. then Ft. Wayne Detroit, then Assignment to Germany for 3 years, then Ft. Know, Ky for 10 months, then a school at Ft. Lee VA, then Viet Nam from Oct 1968 to Oct 1969, then Ft. Sheridan, IL 1969 to 1971, then Decatur, IL 1971 to 1973, then Ankara, Turkey at JUSMMAT to 1975, then Schoefield Barracks, Hawaii to 1978 and then Ft. Lee, VA to 1979 and retirement.

Sean Cain

Sean was born and raised in Mesa, in a very patriotic family. He always dreamt of carrying on the legacy to serve our country as a United States Sailor. Upon graduating Highland High School, Sean enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He is a Cryptologic Technician, just as his paternal grandfather was during his own service time.

Casey Cavolaski

Casey is a proud veteran of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Dalton Colbert

“Dalton Colbert proudly served in the United States Navy, demonstrating dedication, integrity, and commitment to our country.
After completing his military service, Dalton continued his calling to serve others by becoming a Trauma Nurse. He provides compassionate, lifesaving care on patient’s most difficult days. His calm leadership, clinical expertise, and dedication to community reflect the same spirit of service he carried while in uniform. Whether serving his country overseas, caring for patients, or being a devoted husband and father of 3, Dalton embodies selfless strength, and service above all. We are proud to honor him as a true Mesa hometown hero.”

Daniel Ragsdale Combs

“Daniel Ragsdale Combs served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) a Nimitz Class Aircraft Carrier based out of San Diego, CA. from 2000 to 2001.
During his service, he provided odd jobs including packing parachutes, tying buoy lines, standing watch duties, and manning the Helm.
After suffering an injury while in service, he turned to art and became an internationally awarded artist. He also shares his creative skills with the community through offering art classes.”

Adam Creel

CPT (P) Adam Creel is a proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point (class of 2005). He was commissioned into the Aviation branch and qualified on the CH-47D/F “Chinook” mission design series. In his nine years of active duty service, he served with the 3rd and 1st Combat Aviation Brigades and deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, Bagram, Afghanistan and Kandahar, Afghanistan totaling 37 months. For his career, he amassed more than 1100 flight hours, the majority of which were in combat and utilizing night vision goggles. CPT (P) Creel attained the status of pilot in command and air mission commander while earning the senior aviator badge. His career culminated as Commander of Company F, 2-1 General Support Aviation Battalion, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade.

Douglas (DJ) Desjardins Jr.

Douglas C. Desjardins Jr., known to family and friends as DJ, was a proud soldier in the United States Army who had a deep love for driving tanks. Recently promoted to gunner, he still enjoyed being behind the wheel and often shared stories of his time in service. A 2000 high school graduate from Mesa, Arizona, DJ was stationed in Giessen, Germany. Adventurous and outgoing, he was known for his quick wit, generous heart, and ability to make everyone around him laugh. A devoted fan of the Phoenix Suns, he cherished time spent at games whenever he was home. DJ, 24, was killed on November 5 in Ramadi while serving his country, leaving behind a loving family who remembers his courage, humor, and selfless spirit.

Bryce Dodd

“Bryce was a Combat Engineer with the 3rd Marines out of NCBH. Some of his favorite things to do as a Combat Engineer were being out in the field and serving with his Marine brothers, blowing things up was just a perk! He also enjoyed rifle qualification and was a 4th award rifle expert. Deployed to south east Asia twice and Australia once. Served on 3 different ships.
Bryce loves his family, God and his country!”

Kevin Donner

Kevin proudly served his country for 23 years, including a deployment to Afghanistan and a stationing in Korea. Throughout his career, what he valued most was the camaraderie-the lifelong bonds formed with those he served beside. The military was more than a career to him; It was a calling he truly loved. Although medical issues forced his retirement earlier than planned, his dedication to service never faded. Those closest to him know that, given the chance, he would still be wearing the uniform today. His strength, loyalty and love for his fellow service members continue to define who he is.

Kory Duran

Kory joined the Marine corps in 2016. He learned his military occupation specialty in Missouri. After that he was stationed in Okinawa Japan and Yuma Arizona. He completed 2 deployments in his active years of service.

Robert Duwel

SGT Robert Duwel is a 100% disabled combat veteran. He served multiple tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, Desert Storm and various other deployments. He was honored to serve and sacrifice for his country.

Nelson Wayne Dwight Jr.

Lieutenant Colonel Nelson Wayne Dwight, Jr., USAF (Retired), honorably served his country for more than twenty-eight years as a distinguished Air Force aviator. During Operation Desert Storm (1990–1991), he flew vital combat airlift missions in the C-130 Hercules aircraft, supporting coalition operations that liberated Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. Lt. Col. Dwight retired from military service in 1997 and now resides in Mesa, Arizona, with his wife of 56 years, Karen Dwight.

David Felix

David Felix is a proud U.S. Marine who served from 2023 to 2026.

Eddie Fire

“Active duty Marine Corps from 1997-2001. Stationed at Interim Marine Corps Security Forces Company Bahrain from 1997-1998. Participated in Operation Desert Thunder and Operation Southern Watch.

From 1998-2001, stationed at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms with 3rd Battalion 4th Marines, Lima Company, Weapons Platoon. During which time, my unit was deployed to Okinawa, Japan for sixth months. Held the billet position of Platoon Sergeant from 2000-2001. Honorable Discharge with the rank of E-5.”

Robert Flake

Robert H. Flake was drafted into the Air Force in 1941. He received his commission at a Texas field and was piloting a B-17 with the 99th Bomb Group out of the Foggia Italy base when he was shot down over Poland, paying the ultimate price for his country, on December 26, 1944. He proudly served the United States in World War II along with his 2 brothers, Charles & Kenneth Flake.

Alexis Foran

Alexis Foran comes from a family with a long history of military service that dates back to the founding of our country. She enlisted in the U.S. Army in April 2000 while still in high school, completing Basic Training between her junior and senior year before graduating and attending advanced medical training at Fort Sam Houston as a Combat Medic/Healthcare Specialist. Her final day of training was September 11, 2001, a moment that would profoundly shape the course of her military service.

In the months following 9/11, she supported heightened post-9/11 security efforts including the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. Upon completion of the Olympic Games, Alexis was assigned to the 201st Foward Support Battalion in Vilseck, Germany, where she was deployed in March 2003, to Northern Iraq as part of the 1st Infantry Division’s advance party, Task Force Dragon, during the initial phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Serving as a medic for senior command, she helped support early combat operations alongside the 173rd Airborne Brigade and 501st Forward Support Battalion, opening the northern front in Iraq. Alexis was proud to share the legacy of serving in the famed “Big Red One” following in the footsteps of her father, an infantryman who also served in the 1st Infantry Division during Vietnam nearly 40 years earlier.

Seth Ford

“Seth Harvey Ford proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War era from September 1953 to April 1956. During his service, he achieved the rank of Engineman Second Class (EN2), where he was responsible for maintaining and operating vital engine systems that kept his ship mission ready. Stationed in San Diego and serving in the Pacific Fleet, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his dedication and honorable service.

Seth was known as a hardworking, dependable man who took great pride in his work and in serving his country. The discipline and commitment he demonstrated in the Navy carried throughout his life. He passed away in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of service, st”

Noah Fraher 

Noah Fraher has proudly served in the U.S. Army from 2016 to present.

Linda ( Fraser) Robbins

Linda graduated from Westwood High School with the Class of 1977. Linda served in the U. S. Navy from 1977 -1981 as an Aviation Storekeeper Airman. She served in Virginia and Agana, Guam. She returned to the U. S. Navy Reserves as a Store Keeper First Class from 1983 – 1990, Serving in Coronado, California. Linda once again joined the Navy Reserve from 2003 -2010 as a Logistic Specialist First Class, attached to Naval Air Station, Oceana and then Defense Logistics Agency. She received orders in 2007 for Operation Enduring Freedom, Kuwait. Medical concerns found during processing she was unable to go to Kuwait. She was discharged from those orders in 2008 and returned to DLA until 2010.

Andrew Frye

“Andrew Frye proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a Sergeant from 2012 to 2016. During his time in service, he earned the respect of his fellow Marines through his leadership and character. The Marines under his command looked up to him for his integrity and steady example as he upheld the Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Today, he continues to lead with those same principles, guiding his family in faith and setting an example of strength and devotion at home and in the community. His family is proud of his accomplishments and the faith and values he demonstrates every day. “

Matthew Galvez

Highland High Graduate. Join the service after graduation. Stationed in Wyoming. He loves what he does. Military Police.

Patrick Garthwaite

Served honorably for 20 years, went bonkers to serve the people of Mesa as a police officer for 25 years.

Served in Stregic Air Command as an aero repair technician for B-52 and KC-135 aircraft primarily in Guam and Fort Worth, TX.

Laura Hechel joined the United States Army in 1996 and served five years on active duty as a Signals Intelligence Analyst and Russian Linguist. She was stationed at Leighton Kaserne in Würzburg, Germany with the 101st Military Intelligence Battalion. She was then assigned to the 116th Military Intelligence Group at Fort Gordon, Georgia until July of 2001. She earned the Joint Service Achievement Medal for non-combat, meritorious service while assigned to joint service activities.

Originally from Indiana, Thomas Hollobaugh and his family moved to Arizona in 1961 at the age of 12. He was drafted into the Vietnam War spending boot camp at Fort Lewis, Washington and served from 1970- 1971. Thomas had special training in Jungle School and Cavalry school landing him in the First Cavalry Division of the Army. As he tells others it was 1 year, 7 months and 5 days in Vietnam.

Jacob Huffman

Born and raised in Mesa, joined USMC out of high school. Loves his country, his hometown and the corps

“Rescue Swimmer. Stationed in Monterey, CA; Cape Cod, MA; Honolulu, HI; and San Francisco, CA.
Life Member of the Disabled American Veterans.”

Reyes Jimenez was a United States marine veteran who served in the Vietnamese war. He was also a retired City of Mesa Fire fighter. He was an outdoorsman with a green thumb. Reyes always stayed positive through his struggle with Parkinson’s in his later years. A hero and friend to many in the community.

Rachele dutifully served her country as a Seabee in the United States Navy for three years. She served as a heavy equipment operator, operating several different heavy machinery. She separated from the Navy to focus on raising her son.

“Corporal Edward A. Johnston was a United States Marine who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Beirut Barracks bombing on October 23, 1983. He served with courage and conviction in the 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, part of the multinational peacekeeping force in Lebanon. On that tragic morning, a terrorist attack on the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut claimed the lives of 241 American service members, marking one of the deadliest single-day losses in Marine Corps history.

Cpl. Johnston had always dreamed of being a Marine and embraced the Corps with pride, embodying the values of honor, commitment, and selfless service. Those who knew him remember him as a dedicated Marine who loved his country and his fellow Marines.
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“Tony enlisted in 1966 and served in Vietnam as a rifleman and radioman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. He was wounded on May 9, 1967, and awarded the Purple Heart for his injuries. He later served as a casualty reporter with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, a unit known during the Vietnam War as “The Walking Dead”.
Tony continued his service as Military Police in Yuma, and later served at Camp Pendleton before being honorably discharged on July 11, 1969. During his time in the Marine Corps he rose to the rank of Sergeant and received numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, two Presidential Unit Citations, and a Meritorious Mast. “

SPC Le is a proud Asian American immigrant who bravely served his country as a 68w combat medic.

Daniel enlisted in the delayed entry program at the age of 17 and served as a Boiler technician aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3), and as a Gas turbine Specialist aboard the USS Elrod (FFG-55).

Anthony Limon

Was an artilleryman ft.sill oklahoma. Served with 3rd Armored Calvary regiment in Iraq. 2003 2004. Lost soldiers in fallujah Nov 2nd 2003 when a army chinook helicopter was shot down. He was part of the invasion force in 2003. That first year was hell on earth. Lived in arizona his whole life. Went to army jrotc at mesa red mountain. Joined the army because of 9/11. Now residences in mesa with his family wife Dawn and children katie Benjamin and emilio. God bless the USA and our soldiers.

“Cpl. Ivan Lopez Castaneda, a resident of Mesa, AZ since 1994, entered the Marine Corp. in 2006. Cpl. Lopez Castaneda deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2008. His decorations include: Nat’l Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal w/”M” Device, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, & Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.
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“Joseph Vega Madril proudly served in the United States Navy for four years during the Korean War. Stationed aboard a Navy battleship, he worked as a cook, preparing meals that helped sustain Sailors and Officers. Following his active-duty service, Joseph continued his commitment to service in the United States Navy Reserve. After his military career, he dedicated many years to public service, working as a cook and later as a Food Service Supervisor at a Federal government hospital.
Through his military service during the Korean War and his later career in federal service, Joseph Vega Madril demonstrated a lifelong dedication to hard work, responsibility, and caring for others.”

Lucas is a 2021 Graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point where he was a three year letterman in Football and Beat Navy three out of four years. Lucas is currently deployed to the Middle East. He proudly supported by his mom and stepdad, Robyn and Steve Wootton of Mesa.

Richard Mcglasson

My Father (Richard McGlasson) was born into a military family and continued that tradition by being in the Marines for a span of 8 years.

Manuel Mendoza

“Medal of Honor recipient Manuel Mendoza, was born in Miami, Ariz., June 15, 1922.

Mendoza entered the U.S. Army at Fort MacArthur, Calif., November 1942. He served in both WWII and Korea.

Then-Staff Sgt. Manuel Mendoza is being recognized for his actions on Oct. 4, 1944, in Mt. Battaglia, Italy, where he is credited with single-handedly breaking up a German counterattack.

Mendoza was nicknamed the “”Arizona Kid”” for his actions in combat. Following his Army career, Mendoza found employment as a foreman at one of the largest nuclear plants in the country. He passed away at age 79.

Mendoza received the Medal of Honor, March 18, 2014; Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Lea”

Jason Merrill

Sgt. Jason L. Merrill of Mesa was born on April 15, 1984. He thrived in the U.S. Army and wanted to become a pediatrician. Jason was always the life of the party, the glue that held friendships together, and much beloved by his family. He never had anything bad to say about others but always tried to lift people up. Jason was assigned to the Army’s 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Wurzburg, Germany and died on September 3, 2006 of injuries suffered from an explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad. He was 22 years old when he died serving in Iraq. Survived by his loving parents, Tim and Sue Merrill and three sisters Amber, Ashlea, and Alyssa. Jason will be in our hearts forever.

Jason Montgomery

Jason Montgomery proudly served his country for twenty years. He served two tours, 27 months, in Iraq. He was also deployed to Hungary, IFOR/SFOR 1995-1996. He is currently a member of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association 32-8 in Mesa, Arizona.

Oscar C. Munoz

Growing up in Mesa, AZ on a campesino ranch, my friends and I would play wargames. Never in my wildest dreams would I think I would become a Marine. But in 1968, after receiving a blessing from my mother, I found myself in the jungles of Vietnam Leading Delta 5th Marines as Pointman. Back then if you managed to survive your first 3-4 months in service, you would be considered an old timer. I remember how the Viet-Cong would set out booby traps and it was my job to get my company through the jungle safely. I became very aware to all their tricks. Five months into my service, I had to lead my company from Liberty Bridge to “Arizona Territory”. At 1 am I received the signal to proceed. So, I made the sign of the cross and prayed. I was able to get my company across the river safely.

Rogelio Munoz

“He was named after his father, he went to school at westwood high school, football/baseball was his favorite sports. He lost his life in Vietnam in August 1968.”

R Duane Nelson

R Duane Nelson was born and lived his whole life in Mesa, Arizona. He served in the City of Mesa Planning and Zoning office for nearly 40 years. Duane was stationed at Fort Richardson, Anchorage, Alaska, in the Engr Depot Co.

David Nelson

David Nelson was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona. He was born in the Mesa, Southside Hospital Jul 1969. He passed away in Mesa Nov 2025. He proudly served in the 75th Ranger Reg during the Gulf War.

Richard Oliver

Richard Oliver served in the 541st Air Force Band and completed USO tours throughout his service. His daughter, Leslie was born on Air Force day and volunteers regularly at Fellowship Square Historic Mesa, where Richard is a resident. Richard now entertains his community as a magician and even wrote his own book on magic, that is available on Amazon, or his self-built website, Revilo Studios, LLC. Richard is a big part of Fellowship Square’s Veteran’s club and Veteran’s affinity that meet monthly for breakfast and project management. In May, Richard will be representing Mesa and Fellowship Square with the national Vet program, HonorFlight, that flies 80 hand-picked Veterans to Washington D.C. for 3 days, all expenses paid, to tour the nation’s capital and make life-long memories.

Kevin O’Neill

Kevin is a Vietnam Era vet. During his nearly five years on the USS Tripoli (LPH-10), Kevin was awarded campaign ribbons, including the Battle Efficiency Ribbon, on June 30, 1977, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with star. Kevin’s enlistment for active service term was extended for 24 months on January 16, 1979. The extension of service was at the request and for the convenience of the Government. Subsequently, Kevin received an honorable discharge.

Dustin Owens

Dustin always dreamed of serving his country. At 19, he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving at Davis-Monthan AFB in the 355th Munitions Squadron. He absolutely loved making munitions for the A-10 Warthog. While serving a short tour in Korea, he unfortunately passed away leaving behind his wife and four children. His memory and legacy are kept alive everyday by his wife and kids. I.Y.A.A.Y.A.S. Forever!

Hunter Page

Hunter Page signed up for the US Airforce dor the Nuclear Department working in Nukes.

Devin Passmonick

Devin graduated from Dobson High School and attended the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT), where he earned the 2006 Rookie of the Year award in the Law Enforcement program. It was there that he decided to serve his country by joining the U.S. Navy.

After completing Navy Boot Camp and A-school, Devin was assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln, a nuclear-powered Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Fuels, Devin was responsible for fueling aircraft on the flight deck—a critical role on one of the Navy’s largest ships.

He later transitioned to the ship’s Security team in preparation for their deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

During his time in the U.S. Navy, Devin received the Navy “E” Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and Rifle Marksman Ribbon.

After his service, Devin returned to his hometown of Mesa.

JR Porter

JR served in the US Army in 1997. His specialty was Chemical Operations but his tech school course was cancelled. He was discharged with the rank of PFC. JR was awarded Eagle Scout in 1989 and WoHeLo, Camp Fire’s highest award, in 1992, the first Arizona male member to earn the award. JR’s mother and father both served in the Air Force, three great uncles served in the Army in WWII (one also served in the Korean War where he was MIA/KIA) and are interred in Golden Gate National Cemetery.

Joseph Quezada

173rd Airborne Brigade.
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Joe Reidhead was a sergeant in the army with two years of service. He was drafted in November 1953 at 22 years old for the Korean War. He first went to Fort Ord California for six weeks of basic training. He was then shipped off to camp Chaffey at Fort Smith, Arkansas for leadership school, where he got his rank as Sergeant. He was then shipped to camp Rodger in Salsburg, Austria for fire direction for artillery. He spent 13 months in Austria also helping guard the iron curtain. He was then shipped out to Fort Dix, New Jersey for discharge but found out he still had 104 days left in his service so he was sent to form Louis Washington and did K.P guard duty. He mastered up from battery to battalion to post and assigned to a general who he would salute for. He was discharged in November 1955

Sergeant Nancy Riley served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1969. Nancy was presented a plaque as “WAF of the Year” from the March AFB Community Center for her volunteer service. Her final assignment was in the Office of Space Systems at the Pentagon, which required a Top Secret Special Access Required clearance. Nancy rode a boat daily from the Pentagon to Bolling AFB. Nancy was scheduled to march in Richard Nixon’s first inaugural parade. At discharge, Nancy was a Sergeant.

George Senteno

Great father, and proud U.S. Marine.

RJ proudly serves in the United States Coast Guard, where he demonstrates courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our nation. He answered the call to serve with honor and continues to represent his family and community with strength and integrity. We are incredibly proud of his dedication and sacrifice in service to our country.

Robert Simmons

Robert served during Desert Shield/Desert Storm and is a proud veteran. He is married with 2 grown daughters and 4 beautiful grandchildren.

Matt was drafted into the Army in 1967 and served his basic training at Fort Leonardwood, Missouri. From there, he went to Fort Eustis, Virginia for training as a gunner and helicopter mechanic. He was then sent to Aberdeen Proving Ground as a wheel vehicle mechanic. The Army gave him a two week leave at home before heading to Seattle, Washington and from there to Vietnam for a year. In 2024, Matt was selected to join an honor flight to Washington D.C. with a proper welcome home for Vietnam Veterans.

Gilbert (Gil) Smith enlisted in the US Army (with parental consent) at age 17. He completed basic training at Fort Ord in CA then was sent to Soc Tran, South Vietnam. His M.O. was Flight Operations where he was in charge of scheduling flights and crews. Because there was always a shortage of door gunners, Gil often volunteered and completed many missions. Gil, after 1.5 years in Vietnam, was returned home and discharged but suffered with alcoholism and PTSD. But Gil was a survivor. He turned his life around, celebrated 45 years of sobriety and spent his career in vocational rehabilitation. He was known for his work with veterans, and helped hundreds of recovering individuals to achieve sobriety. He passed away 12-12-2025 and was buried with military honors in Mesa.

Sean Stoddard

“Command Sergeant Major Sean Stoddard, of the U.S. Army, Civil Affairs & Military Police, was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona. He is a grateful child of God, brother, husband, father, Eagle Scout BSA, and disciple of Jesus Christ who is thankful for every breath, every day.

This is especially true after he survived two traumatic brain injuries, one in the US Army and one on-duty as a Mesa Police Officer after 15 years of service.

He has over 20 years of Army service with multiple deployments, including Iraq & Afghanistan. He is currently serving as the 3rd year CSM of an Infantry battalion.

He volunteers as the CEO & President of Archangels, a nonprofit where every dollar donated serves those who are serving us, supporting all Branches, Components & First Responders Police, Fire, EMS”

Ryan Stoops

Serves as the Alpha Team leader. Responsible for health, welfare, morale, discipline and professional development of assigned soldiers while ensuring readiness to accomplish all assigned missions.

Thor Strandholt

Served on the USS GALVESTON CLG-3, GUIDED MISSLE CRUISER. SERVED IN COMBAT ZONE IN VIETNAM, RECEIVED “PRESIDENTIAL CITATION” FOR SUCCESSFUL MISSIOM DURING WARTIME.

Chandler Tanori

Chandler proudly calls Mesa home and served six years in the Arizona Army National Guard as a Military Police Officer with the 860th MP Company. During his service, he responded to multiple in-state and out-of-state activations and completed a combat deployment overseas. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting others embody the courage and community spirit that define Mesa’s Hometown Heroes.

Diego Vazquez

Diego G. Vazquez graduated from Mesa High School and enlisted to serve his country. He is a current service member of the United States Army. Diego is currently stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas. He is a proud Mesa Arizona resident.

Matthew Watson

SSG Watson served as a Cannon Crew Member, Civil Affairs Specialist, and Supply Specialist. He served in Iraq 2003-2004, Iraq 2008-2009, and Afghanistan 2011-2012. Through out his 15 years of service on active and reserve duty, he was eventually medically retired.

Kayla Wells 

(Mayra reach out for this – we don’t have this quite yet.

Adam Wilcox

Adam served 13 years in the U.S. Army as an Apache Helicopter Mechanic. His duty station were Fort Drum New York, Hunter Army Airfield Georgia, Camp Humphreys Korea, and two combat deployments to Afghanistan. Adam spent his whole life before the army growing up in Mesa Arizona. He was in the very first 1st grade class at Wilson Elementary when the school first opened. Then moved on to Brimhall Junior High and graduated from Mesa high school in 2010. During his time in the Army he also earned a bachelor’s degree from University of Arizona.

James Witkowski

“Died October 26, 2005 Serving During Operation Iraqi Freedom IED explosion. Saved 100 soldiers and 23 vehicles by jumping on the explosive.”

Jeffrey Witte

MSgt Jeffrey M. Witte joined the Air Force in 2006 and brings nearly two decades of experience in the C4ISR mission systems on the AWACS, supporting operations IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM, as well as other major joint exercises. He previously served as an Additional Duty First Sergeant for the 513th Maintenance Squadron, Tinker AFB, OK

Keith Wyman

Keith was deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan. He served with the 860th MP Co and also with the 101st ABN. He retired in 2015

Bernardo Ybarra

Bernardo was a proud member of the City Of Mesa Sanitation Department for 20+ years. He worked proudly and was an outstanding driver and member of the community. Before calling Mesa his home he decided to go in to the service and proudly give to his country! He was a member of the American Legion Post 41 in Phoenix and served as a Commander and always giving back to the veterans in honor of the ones he served with and those who never came home. My dad was a honorable man in every instances of the word. There is never a day that this man didn’t have his flag proudly displayed, wearing his army colors or simply saluting and talking to any soldier. My father sunrise was August 20, 1939 and his sunset date was September 11, 2022.