"Honoring our military with respect and pride"
Proud to Support Our Military!
WWW.PARADISECHEVROLET.COM
22nd Annual
MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER
6350 Leland Street Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 642-0111
September 20, 2019
Honoring Heroes By Ron Van Dyck, Military Appreciation Committee
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here is no duty more urgent than that of returning thanks. As we come together to recognize a handful of so many military heroes in our community, we are humbled by their dedication and sacrifice. Liberty is a precious gift whose benefits we all enjoy every day, but too often we give little thought to the price paid for it. These thanks also extend to the families who stay behind and also sacrifice in support of their military member.
The fruits of our military labor can be seen throughout the world. Former World War II adversaries like Germany, Italy and Japan are now our allies - first terribly punished by our aerial might, but later sustained and even protected from the air. Dozens of countries in Eastern Europe, once in the grip of Soviet domination throughout the Cold War, are now emerging as democracies in their own right. Many of them are playing a key role in helping us win the global war on terrorism by granting overflight and basing rights. The technology of war has changed dramatically since the American Civil War, but the risks and suffering of war have not. For brave Americans who bear the risk, no victory is free from sorrow. This nation fights proudly, but we know the cost as we see the flag-draped coffins now carried home by C-17s. As we celebrate our honorees, let’s remember the MIA and POW’s who are not with us tonight and the fallen heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The units based here, from Seabees responding to Afghanistan and around the world, to the Sailors and civilians from NAVSEA, enhance the combat, weapons, and sensor capabilities of the Navy and Coast Guard fleets. NAVAIR develops naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems operated by Sailors and Marines. The United States Coast Guard Station Channel Islands provides Maritime Homeland Security and National Defense from Point Conception to Point Dume. Commander, Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing personnel deliver airborne command and control and global logistics support. The California Air National Guard 146th Airlift Wing supports combat operations around the world and homeland wildfire firefighting. Lastly, let’s not forget our local Army contingency. Ventura County businesses and residents have supported our service members in countless ways, by educating children in county schools, employing Veterans and spouses of service members, sending thousands of care packages, and welcoming them home on the flight line. Ventura County has, and always will be, thankful to its military for their service.
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Title Sponsors
The Chamber is collaboration. The Chamber understands the importance of collaborating and building coalitions. By working together, we can build a better tomorrow.
Presenting Sponsors AMS Craig LLC California State University Channel Islands Clear Channel Outdoor Marriott International/Government Travel Centers for Family Health DCH Auto Group Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott The Port of Hueneme
Supporting Sponsors Gold Coast Transit Holiday Inn Express Port Hueneme Oxnard Ambassadors Oxnard College Foundation St. John’s Regional Medical Center
Commemorative Program Sponsor
Local leaders and influencers work together at www.oxnardchamber.org
Paradise Chevrolet
Awardees Gift Sponsor Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau
Wine Sponsors Magnavino Cellars Herzog Wine Cellars
Catalyst. Convener. Champion.
Š 2019 W.A.C.E. Western Association of Chamber Executives
Thank you to Clearwater at Riverpark and Oxnard City Councilman Bryan MacDonald for sponsoring the attendance of active enlisted military personnel!
PROGRAM Master of Ceremonies Steve Goad, CDR USN, Retired Invocation Lieutenant Commander Jason DiPinto, LCDR, CHC, USN
Kindness has no boundaries. St. John’s proudly recognizes this year’s Military Appreciation Dinner honorees. Thank you for your courage, for your sacrifice, and for protecting our great nation.
dignityhealth.org/pleasantvalley
dignityhealth.org/stjohnsregional
Parade the Colors U.S. Army Recruiting Station
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VISIT OXNARD IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE 22ND ANNUAL MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER.
National Anthem 562nd AF Band of the Southwest, MSgt. Dan Plaster Retire the Colors Tribute to POWs/MIAs Introduction of Chamber Board & Civilian VIPs Stacy Miller, Chair of the Board, Oxnard Chamber of Commerce
Providing Fixed-Route & Paratransit Bus Service in OJAI, OXNARD, PORT HUENEME, VENTURA & THE COUNTY OF VENTURA.
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Title Sponsors California Resources Corporation Procter & Gamble Paper Products Military Introductions Master of Ceremonies Steve Goad
Port Hueneme
Committee Presentation Military Appreciation Dinner Chair Tony Volante Dinner Keynote Speaker Major General Terrence J. McKenrick Awards 562nd AF Band of the Southwest, Armed Forces Medley Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard
Oxnard College and The OC Foundation wish to express their gratitude and appreciation to our Armed Forces for their courage and commitment to serving our country.
Find a list of participating merchants at OxnardChamber.org or stop by the Chamber office.
Committed to Service. Committed to Community.
AWARDEES
We Are Proud ...of our longstanding partnerships with the community, Naval Base Ventura County, Coast Guard and other service branches. ... of our Commissioners Jess Herrera and Jess Ramirez, both who have served our nation.
United States Army Sergeant First Class Kevin M. Tran
... and of all the women and men who bravely serve or have served across the world and in our local community. The Port’s partnerships extend beyond the use of the harbor. We are proud to support the U.S. military through sponsoring local events and recognizing those who protect our country and our families.
United States Marine Corps Sergeant Rogger Davila
Oxnard Harbor District Commissioners Jess Herrera •Jess Ramirez • Jason Hodge Mary Anne Rooney • Manuel Lopez
United States Navy Engineering Aid Second Class Viktoria E. Thompson United States Navy Logistics Specialist Second Class David W. Bethard
www.portofh.org
United States Navy Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class Ritamarie L. Tarnowski United States Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Giovanni P. Dagostino Department of the Air Force Channel Islands Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Santos Casaus United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Mykal T. Tanner United States Coast Guard Petty Officer Katherine Salzmann For an appointment, call or text: 805/652-6353 cfh.cmhshealth.org
KEYNOTE SPEAKER T:5.25 in
WE SALUTE YOU. YOUR DEDICATION POWERS US ALL.
Terrence J. McKenrick
California Resources Corporation (CRC) is proud to join the Oxnard Chamber in saluting this year’s local military heroes. The men and women of CRC thank you for your service.
crc.com
CLIENT: CRC
HEAD: WE SALUTE YOU
PUB: OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER
TRIM: NA
LIVE: 8” X 5.25”
COLORS: CMYK
BLEED: NA
CLOSE: 9/13/18
REVS: 1
Major General Terrence McKenrick graduated from the U.S. Military Academy and was commissioned as an Infantry officer. He most recently served as the Deputy Commanding General of U.S. Army Central at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. He previously served as Commanding General of the U.S. Army Joint Modernization Command at Fort Bliss. He also served as Deputy Commanding General (Operations) of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, and Director of Central Command Forward in Jordan. He previously served as a Deputy Director for Operations of the National Military Command Center in the J-3 Directorate on the Joint Staff, and also served as the Chief of Staff of the Office of Security Cooperation in Iraq. Prior to his joint assignments, he served as Commander of the 192nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Benning and Commander of the Warrior Transition Brigade at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He previously served in command and staff positions from platoon through Joint Staff level, including tours of duty with 3rd Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Army Pacific, Total Army Personnel Command, 75th Ranger Regiment, 2nd Ranger Battalion, U.S. European Command, and Commander of 4th Ranger Training Battalion. He also served in V Corps and MultiNational Corps in Iraq. He served an overseas assignment in Hawaii and two tours in Germany, and operational deployments for Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, two tours for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and most recently was deployed to Jordan for Operation Inherent Resolve and to Kuwait for Operation Spartan Shield. He earned a Master of Science Degree in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School for National Security, and a Master of Arts Degree in Human Resources from Hawaii Pacific University. His awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, two Defense Superior Service Medals, three Legions of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge.
UNITED STATES ARMY
OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MILITARY APPRECIATION COMMITTEE
SERGEANT FIRST CLASS
KEVIN M. TRAN
U.S. Army Recruiting Station, Oxnard, CA Hometown: Stockton, CA
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ergeant First Class Tran was born in Stockton, California. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 2003. While in high school, he played three years of football at the middle linebacker position and three years of wrestling at the 152-weight class. He enlisted into the Army due to the events of September 11, 2001. In 2003, he enlisted into the United States Army at the age of 17. He attended Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Advance Individual Training at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he was a Distinguished Honor Graduate in 2004 and awarded the Military Occupational Specialty, 25Q (Multichannel Transmissions Systems Operator/Maintainer). Upon completion of his required training, he volunteered to deploy. He was deployed to Iraq in 2005 as a security element on a small tactical human intelligence collection team working in support of coalition forces and the State Department. Prior to coming to Oxnard, Sergeant First Class Tran served as a Multichannel Transmission Operator/Maintainer at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland, Security Force Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge in Iraq, Observer Controller/ Trainer at Joint Base Lewis-McCord, Washington, and Recruiter/Assistant Center Leader in Bellevue, Washington, and Plano, Texas. He’s been an Instructor, Engagement Team Leader, an Assistant Center Leader and a Recruiter. Today, he serves with the Los Angeles Recruiting Battalion in Oxnard. His military education includes the Senior Leaders Course earning a spot on the Commandant’s List, the Advanced Leaders Course, Warrior Leaders Course, the Army Recruiter Course, Combat Lifesaver Course, HAZMAT Course, Ammo Handler’s course, Unit Armorer Course and the Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator/Maintainer’s course. Sergeant First Class Tran holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Management from the Malcolm Baldrige School of Business at Post University and is currently working on his Master’s of Science Degree in Project Management. Sergeant First Class Tran’s many awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, four Good Conduct Medals, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal and the ‘M’ and Hourglass device, National Defense Service Medal, an Iraqi Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, NCOES Ribbon with a Number 3 device, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Bars, Gold Recruiter Badge, two Driver’s Badges, two Army Superior Unit Awards and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Married to Ruth; one daughter, Evelyn Resides in Oxnard, CA
Ron Van Dyck, Committee Chair Tony Volante, Military Appreciation Dinner Chair BMC Chris Apple Patti Beck Will Berg Rebecca Citron Col John Connolly Diana Davis Lauren DeBoalt Rick Gill Henry Goldman PA1 Becky Haycox Bruce Holley Stephen H. Huber Danielle Janca CPT Christian A. Jaramillo Otto Kanny Florence LaManno MCPO Martin Laurie Cap Solveig C. Listerud Theresa Miller McKenrick Austin Novstrup Debi Spinks Sharen Strong, Committee Liaison Liam Thorpe Marissa Vanderwyck Col Keith Ward William Winfield BMCS Kevin Wyman Amanda Zamarripa Anna Zielsdorf
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS MACHINERY TECHNICIAN
SERGEANT
ROGGER DAVILA
KATHERINE SALZMANN
Weapons Company 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines Port Hueneme, CA
Coast Guard Station Channel Islands Harbor
Hometown: Freehold, NJ
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
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Petty Officer Salzmann has volunteered to deploy with the Coast Guard Cutter Blacktip to carry out law enforcement missions that would not have been able to deploy due to transfer season and lack of qualified members. During this time, Petty Officer Salzmann conducted boardings and augmented the engineering department with preventative maintenance and standing underway engineering watches.
In April 2015, Sergeant Davila was stationed in Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 Detachment A, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. During his time there, he supported his detachment as the Motor transportation Maintenance Shop Chief, Heavy Equipment Maintenance Chief and as a Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor. In July 2018, he received his orders to Weapons Company 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme.
Petty Officer Salzmann was a critical member leading the replacement of the unit’s Response Boat Medium’s jet drive system. She ensured all required operational tests were completed and documented correctly. These intrusive repairs are not normally conducted at the unit level, thus saving the Coast Guard thousands of dollars and returning the asset back to fully mission-capable status. She has been the team lead during multiple engineering casualties including trouble-shooting and replacing exhaust manifolds, jacket water pumps and clutch drives on the unit’s assets.
In Port Hueneme, Sergeant Davila has been assigned as the Motor Transportation Chief and the Environmental Compliance Officer. As the Motor Transportation Chief, he covers tactical vehicle operations for the company. He is responsible for the organization’s convoys, personnel training, vehicle maintenance and transportation of personnel, weapons and equipment. During the last 12 months, Sergeant Davila has managed the receipting of 30 vehicles valued at more than $7 million. He has put in more than 100 hours of vehicle maintenance, valued at $20,000 worth of repairs.
etty Officer Salzmann enlisted in the Coast Guard in April 2014. Her previous assignments include the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Otter out of San Diego, California, and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sycamore out of Cordova, Alaska. She is currently assigned to Coast Guard Station Channel Islands as a small boat engineer and is responsible for all maintenance on the unit’s boats.
Petty Officer Salzmann was the lead engineer during an emergency dry dock of the unit’s 45739 Response Boat Small. She procured all essential parts and managed members of the engineering department in the removal and installation of all jet drive components, hydraulic rams and associated running gear. Her coordination with the Ventura Harbor Boatyard and Station Channel Islands command ensured the asset was returned to the unit well within its scheduled timeline. These efforts allowed Coast Guard Station Channel Islands to remain fully mission-capable and ready to answer the call to the local boating community and the nation. Petty Officer Salzmann serves as one of the unit’s officers of the day and federal maritime boarding officers. She has taken on the role as the unit’s Morale Petty Officer, planning multiple unit morale events that encompass all of the Coast Guard units in the area. Petty Officer Salzmann’s personal awards include The Coast Guard Achievement Medal, The Commandants Letter of Commendation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Coast Guard Basic Training Honor Graduate Ribbon, the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal and various other awards throughout her career. Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
ergeant Davila was born in Peru and raised in Freehold, New Jersey, graduating from Colts Neck High School in 2011. He joined the Marine Corps in 2012 and went to bootcamp in Parris Island, South Carolina. His first duty station was Combat Logistic Battalion 25 in Red Bank, New Jersey, where he worked as a Floor Maintenance technician. During his time in Combat Logistic Battalion 25, he was awarded Marine of the Quarter.
Sergeant Davila conducts monthly vehicle inventories to ensure convoy and mission success within the company. His duty as Environmental Compliance Officer is to ensure that Weapons Company does not harm the environment with hazardous materials. It is also his responsibility to keep more than 100 Marines informed and safe from any hazardous materials. As Weapons Company Marine Corps Martial Arts instructor, Sergeant Davila helps Marines become better leaders and better citizens for our community through the teachings of the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. During his time in California he has supported multiple community events such as funerals, color guards and parades. Resides in Oxnard, CA
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS MACHINERY TECHNICIAN
SERGEANT
ROGGER DAVILA
KATHERINE SALZMANN
Weapons Company 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines Port Hueneme, CA
Coast Guard Station Channel Islands Harbor
Hometown: Freehold, NJ
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
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Petty Officer Salzmann has volunteered to deploy with the Coast Guard Cutter Blacktip to carry out law enforcement missions that would not have been able to deploy due to transfer season and lack of qualified members. During this time, Petty Officer Salzmann conducted boardings and augmented the engineering department with preventative maintenance and standing underway engineering watches.
In April 2015, Sergeant Davila was stationed in Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 Detachment A, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. During his time there, he supported his detachment as the Motor transportation Maintenance Shop Chief, Heavy Equipment Maintenance Chief and as a Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor. In July 2018, he received his orders to Weapons Company 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme.
Petty Officer Salzmann was a critical member leading the replacement of the unit’s Response Boat Medium’s jet drive system. She ensured all required operational tests were completed and documented correctly. These intrusive repairs are not normally conducted at the unit level, thus saving the Coast Guard thousands of dollars and returning the asset back to fully mission-capable status. She has been the team lead during multiple engineering casualties including trouble-shooting and replacing exhaust manifolds, jacket water pumps and clutch drives on the unit’s assets.
In Port Hueneme, Sergeant Davila has been assigned as the Motor Transportation Chief and the Environmental Compliance Officer. As the Motor Transportation Chief, he covers tactical vehicle operations for the company. He is responsible for the organization’s convoys, personnel training, vehicle maintenance and transportation of personnel, weapons and equipment. During the last 12 months, Sergeant Davila has managed the receipting of 30 vehicles valued at more than $7 million. He has put in more than 100 hours of vehicle maintenance, valued at $20,000 worth of repairs.
etty Officer Salzmann enlisted in the Coast Guard in April 2014. Her previous assignments include the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Otter out of San Diego, California, and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sycamore out of Cordova, Alaska. She is currently assigned to Coast Guard Station Channel Islands as a small boat engineer and is responsible for all maintenance on the unit’s boats.
Petty Officer Salzmann was the lead engineer during an emergency dry dock of the unit’s 45739 Response Boat Small. She procured all essential parts and managed members of the engineering department in the removal and installation of all jet drive components, hydraulic rams and associated running gear. Her coordination with the Ventura Harbor Boatyard and Station Channel Islands command ensured the asset was returned to the unit well within its scheduled timeline. These efforts allowed Coast Guard Station Channel Islands to remain fully mission-capable and ready to answer the call to the local boating community and the nation. Petty Officer Salzmann serves as one of the unit’s officers of the day and federal maritime boarding officers. She has taken on the role as the unit’s Morale Petty Officer, planning multiple unit morale events that encompass all of the Coast Guard units in the area. Petty Officer Salzmann’s personal awards include The Coast Guard Achievement Medal, The Commandants Letter of Commendation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Coast Guard Basic Training Honor Graduate Ribbon, the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal and various other awards throughout her career. Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
ergeant Davila was born in Peru and raised in Freehold, New Jersey, graduating from Colts Neck High School in 2011. He joined the Marine Corps in 2012 and went to bootcamp in Parris Island, South Carolina. His first duty station was Combat Logistic Battalion 25 in Red Bank, New Jersey, where he worked as a Floor Maintenance technician. During his time in Combat Logistic Battalion 25, he was awarded Marine of the Quarter.
Sergeant Davila conducts monthly vehicle inventories to ensure convoy and mission success within the company. His duty as Environmental Compliance Officer is to ensure that Weapons Company does not harm the environment with hazardous materials. It is also his responsibility to keep more than 100 Marines informed and safe from any hazardous materials. As Weapons Company Marine Corps Martial Arts instructor, Sergeant Davila helps Marines become better leaders and better citizens for our community through the teachings of the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. During his time in California he has supported multiple community events such as funerals, color guards and parades. Resides in Oxnard, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
STAFF SERGEANT
VIKTORIA E. THOMPSON
MYKAL T. TANNER
Engineering Aid Second Class Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, CA Hometown: Grosse Point, MI
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etty Officer Thompson is the Facilities Manager for buildings 1000, 1100 and 1197. She directly oversees contract management, space allocation, building functions, maintenance schedules and building operational programs, and ensures efficiency of all building systems such as HVAC plumbing, lighting and disposal equipment. She also ensures the operational condition of general office equipment and electrical supply, including tracking and documenting utility inspection schedules and reports, as well as managing and submitting all trouble calls. She coordinates building security and maintenance services with building department heads, facilities personnel, contractors, vendors and janitorial services. In addition, she is the Fire Warden for Building 1000, directly responsible for all monthly inspections and upkeep of 18 fire extinguishers, in conjunction with managing the building’s 21 emergency evacuation plans. Petty Officer Thompson also handles the arrangement and coordination of special transportation for Command VIPs as well as assignment and hoisting the proper pennant flags. Petty Officer Thompson plays an active role within the command as Vice President of the Junior Enlisted Association (JEA). She spearheaded the planning of eight fundraising events, leading 17 JEA peers in raising more than $1,200 used to benefit the Junior Sailors of her command by providing services such as offsetting costly ticket prices and enabling command-sponsored, morale-boosting events. As the primary point of contact, she organized six command picnics for more than 650 civilian and military personnel during holidays, enhancing morale and comradery. Once a month, Petty Officer Thompson volunteers 12 hours to the Naval Base Ventura Food Share program. Her time there includes networking with local markets, negotiating donations or reduced prices for food items, and loading, unloading, shelf stocking and issuing food bags to the families of Naval Base Ventura County, providing a supplemental means for filling pantries and reducing grocery costs for military families. Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
344th Training Squadron, Detachment 1 Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, CA Hometown: Corona, CA
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taff Sergeant Tanner is a heavy equipment master, both in handling and teaching others how to safely and effectively do the same. He has instructed hundreds of joint-service students through 645 hours on nine pieces of equipment, achieving a total pass rate of 93% for future leaders of the Air Force and Navy, and maintaining a $4.6 million state-of-the-art technical training course. He joined the Air Force shortly after graduating from high school. His basic training was at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas and he completed technical training at Naval Base Ventura County Port Hueneme. His first duty assignment was at Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina and he deployed to Afghanistan, Germany, Qatar and the United Arabs Emirates. He has completed eight master’s degree courses including Navy instructional theory and quality assurance while tackling Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education training, and earning honor roll status while utilizing new supply knowledge in support of eight major commands worldwide. As a result, he won Junior Enlisted Instructor of the first quarter of 2019. Staff Sergeant Tanner created the first-ever, all-electronic course for future technicians of the Air Force by streamlining a 21-day course utilizing new electronic tablets. It saved $12,000 by eliminating paper packets while promoting green procurement practices and demonstrating innovative classroom instructional methods. As the squadron physical training leader, Staff Sergeant Tanner strengthened his unit’s fitness program by testing more than 50 instructors, 300 students and five Air National Guard members, and achieving a 100% pass rate while improving one of the Air Force’s Four (physical) Pillars of Resiliency. Staff Sergeant Tanner led 14 members on a self-assessment program inspecting 48 programs and 600-line items in eight duty sections, resulting in the updating of 27 communicators and achieving a 99% compliance rate. Staff Sergeant Tanner further managed his unit’s Emergency Management Program, Internal Management Control Toolset, and Naval Construction Training Center for hazardous materials, ensuring best management practices and acquisitions, and enabling the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and 37 Training Group Inspectors-General inspection compliance. Staff Sergeant Tanner managed his squadron’s and the Naval Construction Detachment’s Fourth of July event directing 14 non-commissioned officers, and 60 airmen and sailor volunteers. This event, enjoyed by more than 300 patrons, improved our joint services and community relationships. Married to Generra Resides in Oxnard, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
STAFF SERGEANT
VIKTORIA E. THOMPSON
MYKAL T. TANNER
Engineering Aid Second Class Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, CA Hometown: Grosse Point, MI
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etty Officer Thompson is the Facilities Manager for buildings 1000, 1100 and 1197. She directly oversees contract management, space allocation, building functions, maintenance schedules and building operational programs, and ensures efficiency of all building systems such as HVAC plumbing, lighting and disposal equipment. She also ensures the operational condition of general office equipment and electrical supply, including tracking and documenting utility inspection schedules and reports, as well as managing and submitting all trouble calls. She coordinates building security and maintenance services with building department heads, facilities personnel, contractors, vendors and janitorial services. In addition, she is the Fire Warden for Building 1000, directly responsible for all monthly inspections and upkeep of 18 fire extinguishers, in conjunction with managing the building’s 21 emergency evacuation plans. Petty Officer Thompson also handles the arrangement and coordination of special transportation for Command VIPs as well as assignment and hoisting the proper pennant flags. Petty Officer Thompson plays an active role within the command as Vice President of the Junior Enlisted Association (JEA). She spearheaded the planning of eight fundraising events, leading 17 JEA peers in raising more than $1,200 used to benefit the Junior Sailors of her command by providing services such as offsetting costly ticket prices and enabling command-sponsored, morale-boosting events. As the primary point of contact, she organized six command picnics for more than 650 civilian and military personnel during holidays, enhancing morale and comradery. Once a month, Petty Officer Thompson volunteers 12 hours to the Naval Base Ventura Food Share program. Her time there includes networking with local markets, negotiating donations or reduced prices for food items, and loading, unloading, shelf stocking and issuing food bags to the families of Naval Base Ventura County, providing a supplemental means for filling pantries and reducing grocery costs for military families. Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
344th Training Squadron, Detachment 1 Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, CA Hometown: Corona, CA
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taff Sergeant Tanner is a heavy equipment master, both in handling and teaching others how to safely and effectively do the same. He has instructed hundreds of joint-service students through 645 hours on nine pieces of equipment, achieving a total pass rate of 93% for future leaders of the Air Force and Navy, and maintaining a $4.6 million state-of-the-art technical training course. He joined the Air Force shortly after graduating from high school. His basic training was at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas and he completed technical training at Naval Base Ventura County Port Hueneme. His first duty assignment was at Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina and he deployed to Afghanistan, Germany, Qatar and the United Arabs Emirates. He has completed eight master’s degree courses including Navy instructional theory and quality assurance while tackling Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education training, and earning honor roll status while utilizing new supply knowledge in support of eight major commands worldwide. As a result, he won Junior Enlisted Instructor of the first quarter of 2019. Staff Sergeant Tanner created the first-ever, all-electronic course for future technicians of the Air Force by streamlining a 21-day course utilizing new electronic tablets. It saved $12,000 by eliminating paper packets while promoting green procurement practices and demonstrating innovative classroom instructional methods. As the squadron physical training leader, Staff Sergeant Tanner strengthened his unit’s fitness program by testing more than 50 instructors, 300 students and five Air National Guard members, and achieving a 100% pass rate while improving one of the Air Force’s Four (physical) Pillars of Resiliency. Staff Sergeant Tanner led 14 members on a self-assessment program inspecting 48 programs and 600-line items in eight duty sections, resulting in the updating of 27 communicators and achieving a 99% compliance rate. Staff Sergeant Tanner further managed his unit’s Emergency Management Program, Internal Management Control Toolset, and Naval Construction Training Center for hazardous materials, ensuring best management practices and acquisitions, and enabling the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and 37 Training Group Inspectors-General inspection compliance. Staff Sergeant Tanner managed his squadron’s and the Naval Construction Detachment’s Fourth of July event directing 14 non-commissioned officers, and 60 airmen and sailor volunteers. This event, enjoyed by more than 300 patrons, improved our joint services and community relationships. Married to Generra Resides in Oxnard, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
LOGISTICS SPECIALIST SECOND CLASS
STAFF SERGEANT
DAVID W. BETHARD
SANTOS CASAUS
Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist Naval Construction Battalion 22 Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, CA
146th Airlift Wing Channel Islands Air National Guard Station Hometown: Rio Rancho, NM
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Hometown: Bay Minette, AL
even-year veteran Staff Sergeant Casaus enlisted into the New Mexico Air National Guard in January 2013. Following basic training, he graduated from Aviation Maintenance School at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas in December 2013. In December 2016, he transferred to the California Air National Guard, 146th Airlift Wing, Channel Islands Air National Guard Station where he works as an active guardsman.
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He recently returned from deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve where he provided outstanding ground maintenance efforts supporting more than 1,800 sorties throughout various Middle Eastern countries.
As the Financial Defense Travel Administrator and Debt Management Monitor, Petty Officer Bethard managed 120 travel requirements valuing more than $170,000. Petty Officer Bethard’s effort ensured the proper Line of Accounting (LOA) and 100% accuracy of entitlements and reimbursements in accordance with the Department of Defense Joint Travel Regulation.
As a selfless civil servant, Staff Sergeant Casaus has volunteered for several California state emergencies in support of Modular Airborne Fire Fighting activations, most recently the Thomas, Mendocino and Woolsey fires, providing critical ground maintenance efforts contributing to saving thousands of lives, homes and businesses. In response to Hurricanes Maria and Florence, Staff Sergeant Casaus was hand-selected as a flying crew chief where his aircraft met 100% mission tasking to support delivery of food and supplies to affected areas while earning the Humanitarian Service Medal. Staff Sergeant Casaus serves as the dedicated Crew Chief for the wind flagship aircraft C-130J 01-1461 directing and coordinating all aircraft maintenance efforts to ensure mission readiness. Under this assignment, he has volunteered for more than 25 additional missions as a Flying Crew Chief supporting cargo and troop movements, training flights and special forces jump training missions. Motivated for continual self-improvement, he is pursuing a long-term goal of becoming an Air Force pilot, he recently earned his private pilot’s license and is currently working towards his instrument and commercial ratings. Staff Sergeant Casaus is pursuing his education through Eastern New Mexico University studying Applied Science of Aviation and will graduate next year. Resides in Camarillo, CA
etty Officer Bethard played a vital role in the Supply Department where his leadership and expertise were crucial in maintaining 100% accountability of all financial records and administrative requirements for a 580-person unit. His dedication and commitment resulted in the command receiving a 95% passing rate and a mark as excellent during the 1NCR Supply Management Inspection.
As the Battalion’s Supply Clerk, Petty Officer Bethard managed all logistical requirements in support of three annual trainings, 11 command and control events, and nine readiness training platforms for 421 members. He organized and issued more than 16,354 line items of material valued at $4.2 million. He meticulously gathered supply requirements including 40 military-grade tactical tents, 17,758 meals ready-to-eat (MRE) and unitized group rations (UGR), five 5k generators, and 13,268 Personnel Gear Individual (PGI) requirements. He provided meals to more than six weapons qualifications courses and MRE’s/ UGR’s in support of five range evolutions. Petty Officer Bethard led 51 personnel in the setup and breakdown of a complete camp layout ensuring the command’s training timeline was met and completed successfully. As the Command’s Fitness Leader, Petty Officer Bethard managed and updated fitness scores for staff and local drillers in PRIMS and implemented a rigorous physical fitness-training program focused on unit cohesion and promoting healthy lifestyles for 21 active duty and 63 reserve personnel. His efforts led to zero failures and nine scores of excellent or above for active duty staff. As the Unit Berthing Coordinator, he tracked and coordinated 2,304 commercial berthings for 553 personnel in support of three annual trainings, 11 command and control events, and nine readiness training platforms ensuring all personnel had berthing over the entirety of all events. As the Command HAZMAT Certifier, he provided support for the transportation of 19 CESE and six tri-cons in support of the 2018 Rim of the Pacific exercise directly supporting EOD Group 1, 1st Naval Construction Regiment, NMCB 3, NMCB 18 and NMCB 22. Petty Officer Bethard was selected as the First Naval Construction Regiment Junior Sailor of the Quarter for fiscal year 2017 fourth quarter and fiscal year 2018 third quarter. His phenomenal work ethic has made a great and lasting contribution to this command’s operational readiness and overall effectiveness. Petty Officer Bethard’s exceptional professionalism, unrelenting perseverance and loyal devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Married to Jessica; daughter, Julie; son, Leland Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
LOGISTICS SPECIALIST SECOND CLASS
STAFF SERGEANT
DAVID W. BETHARD
SANTOS CASAUS
Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist Naval Construction Battalion 22 Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, CA
146th Airlift Wing Channel Islands Air National Guard Station Hometown: Rio Rancho, NM
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Hometown: Bay Minette, AL
even-year veteran Staff Sergeant Casaus enlisted into the New Mexico Air National Guard in January 2013. Following basic training, he graduated from Aviation Maintenance School at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas in December 2013. In December 2016, he transferred to the California Air National Guard, 146th Airlift Wing, Channel Islands Air National Guard Station where he works as an active guardsman.
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He recently returned from deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve where he provided outstanding ground maintenance efforts supporting more than 1,800 sorties throughout various Middle Eastern countries.
As the Financial Defense Travel Administrator and Debt Management Monitor, Petty Officer Bethard managed 120 travel requirements valuing more than $170,000. Petty Officer Bethard’s effort ensured the proper Line of Accounting (LOA) and 100% accuracy of entitlements and reimbursements in accordance with the Department of Defense Joint Travel Regulation.
As a selfless civil servant, Staff Sergeant Casaus has volunteered for several California state emergencies in support of Modular Airborne Fire Fighting activations, most recently the Thomas, Mendocino and Woolsey fires, providing critical ground maintenance efforts contributing to saving thousands of lives, homes and businesses. In response to Hurricanes Maria and Florence, Staff Sergeant Casaus was hand-selected as a flying crew chief where his aircraft met 100% mission tasking to support delivery of food and supplies to affected areas while earning the Humanitarian Service Medal. Staff Sergeant Casaus serves as the dedicated Crew Chief for the wind flagship aircraft C-130J 01-1461 directing and coordinating all aircraft maintenance efforts to ensure mission readiness. Under this assignment, he has volunteered for more than 25 additional missions as a Flying Crew Chief supporting cargo and troop movements, training flights and special forces jump training missions. Motivated for continual self-improvement, he is pursuing a long-term goal of becoming an Air Force pilot, he recently earned his private pilot’s license and is currently working towards his instrument and commercial ratings. Staff Sergeant Casaus is pursuing his education through Eastern New Mexico University studying Applied Science of Aviation and will graduate next year. Resides in Camarillo, CA
etty Officer Bethard played a vital role in the Supply Department where his leadership and expertise were crucial in maintaining 100% accountability of all financial records and administrative requirements for a 580-person unit. His dedication and commitment resulted in the command receiving a 95% passing rate and a mark as excellent during the 1NCR Supply Management Inspection.
As the Battalion’s Supply Clerk, Petty Officer Bethard managed all logistical requirements in support of three annual trainings, 11 command and control events, and nine readiness training platforms for 421 members. He organized and issued more than 16,354 line items of material valued at $4.2 million. He meticulously gathered supply requirements including 40 military-grade tactical tents, 17,758 meals ready-to-eat (MRE) and unitized group rations (UGR), five 5k generators, and 13,268 Personnel Gear Individual (PGI) requirements. He provided meals to more than six weapons qualifications courses and MRE’s/ UGR’s in support of five range evolutions. Petty Officer Bethard led 51 personnel in the setup and breakdown of a complete camp layout ensuring the command’s training timeline was met and completed successfully. As the Command’s Fitness Leader, Petty Officer Bethard managed and updated fitness scores for staff and local drillers in PRIMS and implemented a rigorous physical fitness-training program focused on unit cohesion and promoting healthy lifestyles for 21 active duty and 63 reserve personnel. His efforts led to zero failures and nine scores of excellent or above for active duty staff. As the Unit Berthing Coordinator, he tracked and coordinated 2,304 commercial berthings for 553 personnel in support of three annual trainings, 11 command and control events, and nine readiness training platforms ensuring all personnel had berthing over the entirety of all events. As the Command HAZMAT Certifier, he provided support for the transportation of 19 CESE and six tri-cons in support of the 2018 Rim of the Pacific exercise directly supporting EOD Group 1, 1st Naval Construction Regiment, NMCB 3, NMCB 18 and NMCB 22. Petty Officer Bethard was selected as the First Naval Construction Regiment Junior Sailor of the Quarter for fiscal year 2017 fourth quarter and fiscal year 2018 third quarter. His phenomenal work ethic has made a great and lasting contribution to this command’s operational readiness and overall effectiveness. Petty Officer Bethard’s exceptional professionalism, unrelenting perseverance and loyal devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Married to Jessica; daughter, Julie; son, Leland Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
UNITED STATES NAVY
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
PETTY OFFICER
RITAMARIE L. TARNOWSKI
GIOVANNI P. DAGOSTINO
Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training, Point Mugu Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu
Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 117 Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme
Hometown: Dearborn Heights, MI
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etty Officer Second Class Tarnowski was raised in Michigan. She joined the United States Navy on March 20, 2012, and completed her basic training in Naval Station Great Lakes in Chicago, Illinois. Before coming to Naval Base Ventura County, she was assigned to the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-151) in Lemoore, California. As the course supervisor for electrical and instrument systems, Petty Officer Tarnowski was an invaluable asset for the Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMA-262) Program Office and Applied Technical Cooperation for the MQ-4C Triton Aviation Organization Maintenance course. She personally dedicated 192 hours of instructional delivery to seven students resulting in the direct readiness of Unmanned Patrol Squadron One Nine (VUP-19) and supporting personnel. Petty Officer Tarnowski volunteered 12 hours to the CALTRANS Adopt-A-Highway program helping beautify Highway 1 while developing esprit de corps for the military and her local community. Additionally, Petty Officer Tarnowski dedicated eight hours to the Camarillo RAIN community providing assistance with painting and landscaping services. RAIN is a transitional housing program that provides nutritious meals, intensive case management services, and employment opportunities for homeless families. As the Support Equipment Asset Manager, Petty Officer Tarnowski tracked, managed and surveyed more than 532 critical aviation assets valued at $2.2 million. Her attention to detail and subject matter expertise were vital in maintaining a 100% trainer availability across three MQ-4C Maintenance Trainer Systems (MTS). In her assignment as Public Affairs Officer, Petty Officer Tarnowski coordinated a site visit from Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), provided guided tours and personal interviews, and enhanced the social media footprint for the MQ-4C program and Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training. Additionally, Petty Officer Tarnowski posted 24 class convenes to the detachment’s social media page while providing timely feedback of status updates to our Echelon III command. AE2 Tarnowski provided 40 hours of laboratory technical maintenance training on the newly established Power Plants Maintenance Trainer (PPMT) providing students first-hand troubleshooting knowledge on existing fault and isolation criteria. Her vast rating knowledge and dedication to student development has contributed to the cross-utilization of six additional instructors across eight courses of instruction. Petty Officer Tarnowski was recently recognized for her outstanding performance as the Sailor of the Quarter for the detachment. Additionally, her off-duty dedication to education has resulted in the completion of two courses in the Total Workforce Management Services (TWMS). Married to Jamie; two daughters, Jazmine and Jayelyn; two sons, Maddex and Siam Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
Hometown: Chicago, IL
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etty Officer Dagostino was hand-selected to represent VAW-117 Wallbangers for the 234th Navy Fleet Week Western Slope Grand Junction Colorado. A static display of an E-2C Hawkeye was set up as part of the airshow and his efforts improved community relations by providing education for local attendees and a positive image for the United States Navy. Petty Officer Dagostino volunteered six hours to Habitat for Humanity where he helped build a house for a local family. In that time, he cut frames, applied side panels, cleaned streets, and disposed of garbage and construction materials. He participated in the Meals on Wheels program sponsored by Navy Outreach NAVCO in Mesa County, Grand Junction, Colorado, spending four hours delivering meals to 10 elderly residents including several retired military veterans. During his squadron’s training period in Fallon, Nevada, Petty Officer Dagostino selflessly volunteered time to assist with the cleanup of the Seventh Day Adventist School and provided a safe ride for 43 sailors during the command seasonal party. As the Command Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Treasurer, Petty Officer Dagostino provided support for the command’s picnic by setting up food, games and prizes for the VAW-117 sailors. Prizes included tickets to Disneyland, Universal Studios and the movies, and several gift cards amounting to $300. Some of the games provided during the picnic included a bounce house for kids, a snow cone machine and a softball game. His efforts not only improved the morale of sailors but also of their spouses and children. Additionally, Petty Officer Dagostino was actively involved in organizing monthly birthday celebrations for sailors while deployed to the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). Under his leadership, the Command Christmas Party fundraising effort brought in $20,000 for the Command’s party. As the Work Center Training Petty Officer, he is in charge of conducting work center training for 16 sailors and he spent numerous hours logging more than 144 training topics related to Navy programs and aircraft maintenance. Also, as the Work Center Supervisor, he led eight sailors in performing maintenance on four E-2C Hawkeye aircraft supporting operations and training requirements including the 2018 deployment onboard the USS John C. Stennis. His leadership resulted in the completion of 1,566 discrepancies encompassing 3,096 work center hours. Married to Amanda; daughter, Sophia Resides in Camarillo, CA
UNITED STATES NAVY
UNITED STATES NAVY
PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
PETTY OFFICER
RITAMARIE L. TARNOWSKI
GIOVANNI P. DAGOSTINO
Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training, Point Mugu Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu
Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 117 Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme
Hometown: Dearborn Heights, MI
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etty Officer Second Class Tarnowski was raised in Michigan. She joined the United States Navy on March 20, 2012, and completed her basic training in Naval Station Great Lakes in Chicago, Illinois. Before coming to Naval Base Ventura County, she was assigned to the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-151) in Lemoore, California. As the course supervisor for electrical and instrument systems, Petty Officer Tarnowski was an invaluable asset for the Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMA-262) Program Office and Applied Technical Cooperation for the MQ-4C Triton Aviation Organization Maintenance course. She personally dedicated 192 hours of instructional delivery to seven students resulting in the direct readiness of Unmanned Patrol Squadron One Nine (VUP-19) and supporting personnel. Petty Officer Tarnowski volunteered 12 hours to the CALTRANS Adopt-A-Highway program helping beautify Highway 1 while developing esprit de corps for the military and her local community. Additionally, Petty Officer Tarnowski dedicated eight hours to the Camarillo RAIN community providing assistance with painting and landscaping services. RAIN is a transitional housing program that provides nutritious meals, intensive case management services, and employment opportunities for homeless families. As the Support Equipment Asset Manager, Petty Officer Tarnowski tracked, managed and surveyed more than 532 critical aviation assets valued at $2.2 million. Her attention to detail and subject matter expertise were vital in maintaining a 100% trainer availability across three MQ-4C Maintenance Trainer Systems (MTS). In her assignment as Public Affairs Officer, Petty Officer Tarnowski coordinated a site visit from Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), provided guided tours and personal interviews, and enhanced the social media footprint for the MQ-4C program and Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training. Additionally, Petty Officer Tarnowski posted 24 class convenes to the detachment’s social media page while providing timely feedback of status updates to our Echelon III command. AE2 Tarnowski provided 40 hours of laboratory technical maintenance training on the newly established Power Plants Maintenance Trainer (PPMT) providing students first-hand troubleshooting knowledge on existing fault and isolation criteria. Her vast rating knowledge and dedication to student development has contributed to the cross-utilization of six additional instructors across eight courses of instruction. Petty Officer Tarnowski was recently recognized for her outstanding performance as the Sailor of the Quarter for the detachment. Additionally, her off-duty dedication to education has resulted in the completion of two courses in the Total Workforce Management Services (TWMS). Married to Jamie; two daughters, Jazmine and Jayelyn; two sons, Maddex and Siam Resides in Port Hueneme, CA
Hometown: Chicago, IL
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etty Officer Dagostino was hand-selected to represent VAW-117 Wallbangers for the 234th Navy Fleet Week Western Slope Grand Junction Colorado. A static display of an E-2C Hawkeye was set up as part of the airshow and his efforts improved community relations by providing education for local attendees and a positive image for the United States Navy. Petty Officer Dagostino volunteered six hours to Habitat for Humanity where he helped build a house for a local family. In that time, he cut frames, applied side panels, cleaned streets, and disposed of garbage and construction materials. He participated in the Meals on Wheels program sponsored by Navy Outreach NAVCO in Mesa County, Grand Junction, Colorado, spending four hours delivering meals to 10 elderly residents including several retired military veterans. During his squadron’s training period in Fallon, Nevada, Petty Officer Dagostino selflessly volunteered time to assist with the cleanup of the Seventh Day Adventist School and provided a safe ride for 43 sailors during the command seasonal party. As the Command Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Treasurer, Petty Officer Dagostino provided support for the command’s picnic by setting up food, games and prizes for the VAW-117 sailors. Prizes included tickets to Disneyland, Universal Studios and the movies, and several gift cards amounting to $300. Some of the games provided during the picnic included a bounce house for kids, a snow cone machine and a softball game. His efforts not only improved the morale of sailors but also of their spouses and children. Additionally, Petty Officer Dagostino was actively involved in organizing monthly birthday celebrations for sailors while deployed to the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). Under his leadership, the Command Christmas Party fundraising effort brought in $20,000 for the Command’s party. As the Work Center Training Petty Officer, he is in charge of conducting work center training for 16 sailors and he spent numerous hours logging more than 144 training topics related to Navy programs and aircraft maintenance. Also, as the Work Center Supervisor, he led eight sailors in performing maintenance on four E-2C Hawkeye aircraft supporting operations and training requirements including the 2018 deployment onboard the USS John C. Stennis. His leadership resulted in the completion of 1,566 discrepancies encompassing 3,096 work center hours. Married to Amanda; daughter, Sophia Resides in Camarillo, CA
UNITED STATES ARMY
OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MILITARY APPRECIATION COMMITTEE
SERGEANT FIRST CLASS
KEVIN M. TRAN
U.S. Army Recruiting Station, Oxnard, CA Hometown: Stockton, CA
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ergeant First Class Tran was born in Stockton, California. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 2003. While in high school, he played three years of football at the middle linebacker position and three years of wrestling at the 152-weight class. He enlisted into the Army due to the events of September 11, 2001. In 2003, he enlisted into the United States Army at the age of 17. He attended Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Advance Individual Training at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he was a Distinguished Honor Graduate in 2004 and awarded the Military Occupational Specialty, 25Q (Multichannel Transmissions Systems Operator/Maintainer). Upon completion of his required training, he volunteered to deploy. He was deployed to Iraq in 2005 as a security element on a small tactical human intelligence collection team working in support of coalition forces and the State Department. Prior to coming to Oxnard, Sergeant First Class Tran served as a Multichannel Transmission Operator/Maintainer at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland, Security Force Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge in Iraq, Observer Controller/ Trainer at Joint Base Lewis-McCord, Washington, and Recruiter/Assistant Center Leader in Bellevue, Washington, and Plano, Texas. He’s been an Instructor, Engagement Team Leader, an Assistant Center Leader and a Recruiter. Today, he serves with the Los Angeles Recruiting Battalion in Oxnard. His military education includes the Senior Leaders Course earning a spot on the Commandant’s List, the Advanced Leaders Course, Warrior Leaders Course, the Army Recruiter Course, Combat Lifesaver Course, HAZMAT Course, Ammo Handler’s course, Unit Armorer Course and the Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator/Maintainer’s course. Sergeant First Class Tran holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Management from the Malcolm Baldrige School of Business at Post University and is currently working on his Master’s of Science Degree in Project Management. Sergeant First Class Tran’s many awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, four Good Conduct Medals, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal and the ‘M’ and Hourglass device, National Defense Service Medal, an Iraqi Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, NCOES Ribbon with a Number 3 device, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Bars, Gold Recruiter Badge, two Driver’s Badges, two Army Superior Unit Awards and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Married to Ruth; one daughter, Evelyn Resides in Oxnard, CA
Ron Van Dyck, Committee Chair Tony Volante, Military Appreciation Dinner Chair BMC Chris Apple Patti Beck Will Berg Rebecca Citron Col John Connolly Diana Davis Lauren DeBoalt Rick Gill Henry Goldman PA1 Becky Haycox Bruce Holley Stephen H. Huber Danielle Janca CPT Christian A. Jaramillo Otto Kanny Florence LaManno MCPO Martin Laurie Cap Solveig C. Listerud Theresa Miller McKenrick Austin Novstrup Debi Spinks Sharen Strong, Committee Liaison Liam Thorpe Marissa Vanderwyck Col Keith Ward William Winfield BMCS Kevin Wyman Amanda Zamarripa Anna Zielsdorf
OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee
Chair: Stacy Miller | Stacy Miller Public Affairs Chair-Elect: Celina Zacarias | CSU Channel Islands Immediate Past Chair: Amy Fonzo | California Resources Corporation Vice Chair/Treasurer: Andrew Kiefer | CBIZ - MHM, LLC Vice Chair: Craig Classen | JaniTek Cleaning Solutions
Board of Directors
Steven Buenger | Buenger Commercial Real Estate Edith Campa | Ventura County Credit Union Chris Do | MacValley Oil Co Cynthia Herrera | Oxnard College Shayla Jenkins | Procter & Gamble Paper Products Nancy Kierstyn Schreiner | Law Offices of Nancy Kierstyn Schreiner Dona Toteva Lacayo | The Port of Hueneme Jacque McMillan | Metropolitan Water District Shelley Merrell | Integrated Fire and Safety Julie Mino | Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau Laura Mullen | DCH Auto Group Tenesor Pena | AGQ Labs Stacy Pizzuti | Umpqua Bank Michael Pynn | The Collection at RiverPark Mark Spellman | Lazer Broadcasting Corporation William Winfield | Nelson Comis Kettle & Kinney LLP Peter Zierhut | Haas Automation
(805) 278-2200 www.residenceinn.com/oxrri
(805) 988-3600 www.courtyard.com/oxro
Lifetime Directors
Tom Cady | TKC Enterprises Marc L. Charney | Law Office of Marc L. Charney Florence LaManno | LaManno Insurance Services Shane Morger | The Tower Club Patty Paumier | St. John’s Hospitals Tom Waddell | State Farm Insurance
Congratulations to all of the Honorees at tonight’s Military Appreciation Dinner
Liaisons to the Board
Ashley Golden | City of Oxnard Jace Lad | Oxnard Ambassadors CAPT David McAlister | Naval Base Ventura County Chief Scott Whitney | Oxnard Police Department
Chamber Staff
Nancy Lindholm | President/CEO Sharen Strong | Director of Member Services Tom Carrese | Business Development Manager Jovie Baclayon | Communications Manager Michael Lee | Operations Manager WWW.CSUCI.EDU
KEYNOTE SPEAKER T:5.25 in
WE SALUTE YOU. YOUR DEDICATION POWERS US ALL.
Terrence J. McKenrick
California Resources Corporation (CRC) is proud to join the Oxnard Chamber in saluting this year’s local military heroes. The men and women of CRC thank you for your service.
crc.com
CLIENT: CRC
HEAD: WE SALUTE YOU
PUB: OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER
TRIM: NA
LIVE: 8” X 5.25”
COLORS: CMYK
BLEED: NA
CLOSE: 9/13/18
REVS: 1
Major General Terrence McKenrick graduated from the U.S. Military Academy and was commissioned as an Infantry officer. He most recently served as the Deputy Commanding General of U.S. Army Central at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. He previously served as Commanding General of the U.S. Army Joint Modernization Command at Fort Bliss. He also served as Deputy Commanding General (Operations) of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, and Director of Central Command Forward in Jordan. He previously served as a Deputy Director for Operations of the National Military Command Center in the J-3 Directorate on the Joint Staff, and also served as the Chief of Staff of the Office of Security Cooperation in Iraq. Prior to his joint assignments, he served as Commander of the 192nd Infantry Brigade at Fort Benning and Commander of the Warrior Transition Brigade at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He previously served in command and staff positions from platoon through Joint Staff level, including tours of duty with 3rd Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Army Pacific, Total Army Personnel Command, 75th Ranger Regiment, 2nd Ranger Battalion, U.S. European Command, and Commander of 4th Ranger Training Battalion. He also served in V Corps and MultiNational Corps in Iraq. He served an overseas assignment in Hawaii and two tours in Germany, and operational deployments for Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, two tours for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and most recently was deployed to Jordan for Operation Inherent Resolve and to Kuwait for Operation Spartan Shield. He earned a Master of Science Degree in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School for National Security, and a Master of Arts Degree in Human Resources from Hawaii Pacific University. His awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, two Defense Superior Service Medals, three Legions of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge.
OXNARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee
Chair: Stacy Miller | Stacy Miller Public Affairs Chair-Elect: Celina Zacarias | CSU Channel Islands Immediate Past Chair: Amy Fonzo | California Resources Corporation Vice Chair/Treasurer: Andrew Kiefer | CBIZ - MHM, LLC Vice Chair: Craig Classen | JaniTek Cleaning Solutions
Board of Directors
Steven Buenger | Buenger Commercial Real Estate Edith Campa | Ventura County Credit Union Chris Do | MacValley Oil Co Cynthia Herrera | Oxnard College Shayla Jenkins | Procter & Gamble Paper Products Nancy Kierstyn Schreiner | Law Offices of Nancy Kierstyn Schreiner Dona Toteva Lacayo | The Port of Hueneme Jacque McMillan | Metropolitan Water District Shelley Merrell | Integrated Fire and Safety Julie Mino | Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau Laura Mullen | DCH Auto Group Tenesor Pena | AGQ Labs Stacy Pizzuti | Umpqua Bank Michael Pynn | The Collection at RiverPark Mark Spellman | Lazer Broadcasting Corporation William Winfield | Nelson Comis Kettle & Kinney LLP Peter Zierhut | Haas Automation
(805) 278-2200 www.residenceinn.com/oxrri
(805) 988-3600 www.courtyard.com/oxro
Lifetime Directors
Tom Cady | TKC Enterprises Marc L. Charney | Law Office of Marc L. Charney Florence LaManno | LaManno Insurance Services Shane Morger | The Tower Club Patty Paumier | St. John’s Hospitals Tom Waddell | State Farm Insurance
Congratulations to all of the Honorees at tonight’s Military Appreciation Dinner
Liaisons to the Board
Ashley Golden | City of Oxnard Jace Lad | Oxnard Ambassadors CAPT David McAlister | Naval Base Ventura County Chief Scott Whitney | Oxnard Police Department
Chamber Staff
Nancy Lindholm | President/CEO Sharen Strong | Director of Member Services Tom Carrese | Business Development Manager Jovie Baclayon | Communications Manager Michael Lee | Operations Manager WWW.CSUCI.EDU
Committed to Service. Committed to Community.
AWARDEES
We Are Proud ...of our longstanding partnerships with the community, Naval Base Ventura County, Coast Guard and other service branches. ... of our Commissioners Jess Herrera and Jess Ramirez, both who have served our nation.
United States Army Sergeant First Class Kevin M. Tran
... and of all the women and men who bravely serve or have served across the world and in our local community. The Port’s partnerships extend beyond the use of the harbor. We are proud to support the U.S. military through sponsoring local events and recognizing those who protect our country and our families.
United States Marine Corps Sergeant Rogger Davila
Oxnard Harbor District Commissioners Jess Herrera •Jess Ramirez • Jason Hodge Mary Anne Rooney • Manuel Lopez
United States Navy Engineering Aid Second Class Viktoria E. Thompson United States Navy Logistics Specialist Second Class David W. Bethard
www.portofh.org
United States Navy Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class Ritamarie L. Tarnowski United States Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Giovanni P. Dagostino Department of the Air Force Channel Islands Air National Guard Staff Sergeant Santos Casaus United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Mykal T. Tanner United States Coast Guard Petty Officer Katherine Salzmann For an appointment, call or text: 805/652-6353 cfh.cmhshealth.org
PROGRAM Master of Ceremonies Steve Goad, CDR USN, Retired Invocation Lieutenant Commander Jason DiPinto, LCDR, CHC, USN
Kindness has no boundaries. St. John’s proudly recognizes this year’s Military Appreciation Dinner honorees. Thank you for your courage, for your sacrifice, and for protecting our great nation.
dignityhealth.org/pleasantvalley
dignityhealth.org/stjohnsregional
Parade the Colors U.S. Army Recruiting Station
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VISIT OXNARD IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE 22ND ANNUAL MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER.
National Anthem 562nd AF Band of the Southwest, MSgt. Dan Plaster Retire the Colors Tribute to POWs/MIAs Introduction of Chamber Board & Civilian VIPs Stacy Miller, Chair of the Board, Oxnard Chamber of Commerce
Providing Fixed-Route & Paratransit Bus Service in OJAI, OXNARD, PORT HUENEME, VENTURA & THE COUNTY OF VENTURA.
Visit us Online! www.GoldCoastTransit.org | 805.487.4222
VisitOxnard.com
Title Sponsors California Resources Corporation Procter & Gamble Paper Products Military Introductions Master of Ceremonies Steve Goad
Port Hueneme
Committee Presentation Military Appreciation Dinner Chair Tony Volante Dinner Keynote Speaker Major General Terrence J. McKenrick Awards 562nd AF Band of the Southwest, Armed Forces Medley Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard
Oxnard College and The OC Foundation wish to express their gratitude and appreciation to our Armed Forces for their courage and commitment to serving our country.
Find a list of participating merchants at OxnardChamber.org or stop by the Chamber office.
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Title Sponsors
The Chamber is collaboration. The Chamber understands the importance of collaborating and building coalitions. By working together, we can build a better tomorrow.
Presenting Sponsors AMS Craig LLC California State University Channel Islands Clear Channel Outdoor Marriott International/Government Travel Centers for Family Health DCH Auto Group Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott The Port of Hueneme
Supporting Sponsors Gold Coast Transit Holiday Inn Express Port Hueneme Oxnard Ambassadors Oxnard College Foundation St. John’s Regional Medical Center
Commemorative Program Sponsor
Local leaders and influencers work together at www.oxnardchamber.org
Paradise Chevrolet
Awardees Gift Sponsor Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau
Wine Sponsors Magnavino Cellars Herzog Wine Cellars
Catalyst. Convener. Champion.
Š 2019 W.A.C.E. Western Association of Chamber Executives
Thank you to Clearwater at Riverpark and Oxnard City Councilman Bryan MacDonald for sponsoring the attendance of active enlisted military personnel!
Honoring Heroes By Ron Van Dyck, Military Appreciation Committee
T
here is no duty more urgent than that of returning thanks. As we come together to recognize a handful of so many military heroes in our community, we are humbled by their dedication and sacrifice. Liberty is a precious gift whose benefits we all enjoy every day, but too often we give little thought to the price paid for it. These thanks also extend to the families who stay behind and also sacrifice in support of their military member.
The fruits of our military labor can be seen throughout the world. Former World War II adversaries like Germany, Italy and Japan are now our allies - first terribly punished by our aerial might, but later sustained and even protected from the air. Dozens of countries in Eastern Europe, once in the grip of Soviet domination throughout the Cold War, are now emerging as democracies in their own right. Many of them are playing a key role in helping us win the global war on terrorism by granting overflight and basing rights. The technology of war has changed dramatically since the American Civil War, but the risks and suffering of war have not. For brave Americans who bear the risk, no victory is free from sorrow. This nation fights proudly, but we know the cost as we see the flag-draped coffins now carried home by C-17s. As we celebrate our honorees, let’s remember the MIA and POW’s who are not with us tonight and the fallen heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The units based here, from Seabees responding to Afghanistan and around the world, to the Sailors and civilians from NAVSEA, enhance the combat, weapons, and sensor capabilities of the Navy and Coast Guard fleets. NAVAIR develops naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems operated by Sailors and Marines. The United States Coast Guard Station Channel Islands provides Maritime Homeland Security and National Defense from Point Conception to Point Dume. Commander, Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing personnel deliver airborne command and control and global logistics support. The California Air National Guard 146th Airlift Wing supports combat operations around the world and homeland wildfire firefighting. Lastly, let’s not forget our local Army contingency. Ventura County businesses and residents have supported our service members in countless ways, by educating children in county schools, employing Veterans and spouses of service members, sending thousands of care packages, and welcoming them home on the flight line. Ventura County has, and always will be, thankful to its military for their service.
"Honoring our military with respect and pride"
Proud to Support Our Military!
WWW.PARADISECHEVROLET.COM
22nd Annual
MILITARY APPRECIATION DINNER
6350 Leland Street Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 642-0111
September 20, 2019