I am a Photographer located in Northern California. I will shoot just about anything, but primarily Military related events such as Welcome Home celebrations for our returning Heroes from their recent deployments overseas.
You may contact me via email: sherry.wiggins@gmail.com
Enjoy.
- Welcome Home US Marine CPL Anthony Frazier
While a senior at Kelseyville High School, Anthony joined the Marine Corps in January 2007 as a member of the delayed entry program. In April 2011 he deployed to Bahrain off the coast of Saudi Arabia. During his deployment, he assumed administrative responsibilities for his platoon as well as being a driver for high ranking officials.
- Senior Airman Stephenie Tatum Welcome Home
Stephenie is a flight medic with the Air National Guard and has been flying to Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Germany, and the United States tending to injured loved ones sometimes under very dangerous conditions. Stephenie is based out of Will Rogers AFB in Oklahoma City, OK
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High School – Granada 2004, Nursing ROP class. Played softball in high school, a passion she has!
Air National Guard – enlisted February 2008. She was the guidon for her unit and built up quite an arm in 6 weeks at basic training holding that long staff with the flag. Stephi continued on to her flight medic training in Wichita Kansas for a month. After this she did 10 days of very Extensive Seere training in Washington which is a requirement for all military that fly overseas. This training teaches them to learn to survive in the wilderness and she can tell you more about that! It was pretty grulling.
Stephi has been on two missions to Hawaii carrying “litters” (injured patients) in both directions.
She also completed a 60 day deployment in Qatar Jan – Mar 1, 2011 working in the hospital carrying for the injured troops.
August 2011 she did a 10 day mission in Germany, flying the injured troops from Iraq to Rammstein AFB.
September 2011 to Jan 30, 2012 she deployed to Germany, flying the injured troops from Afghanistan and Iraq to Rammstein and also to the US. Troops to the US were going to the burn units in TX and to Andrews AFB.
Stephi when not doing her guard job works at the Moore, Ok hospital in the ER.
And when not working, she is studying towards her nursing degree.
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Thank you Azi for taking these wonderful images of the welcome home!
- Aerial Images-Oakley, Brentwood, Mt Diablo, California
- Sgt. Cornelius McCole , US Army, Military Honors Ceremony
Sunday , March 4th , 2012
Two years ago Sgt. Cornelius McCole passed away. Sgt. McCole was a medic in the Army during the Korean War. He was in from 1952-1954 , and was at the battle of “Pork Chop Hill”.
At the time of his passing ,there was no military Honors.
The Warriors’ Watch Riders helped the family in closing that chapter of their lives. WWR arrived at their home on Sunday to
Perform Taps , A Flag Folding Ceremony & Flag Presentation.
- US Army LT. IAN MORRIS' HOMECOMING
First LT Ian Morris, U.S. Army, has returned from a recent deployment in Afghanistan.
Ian returned stateside in August 2011 from his deployment but is finally returning home to Pleasanton. Another great opportunity to share our joy and pride in a job well done!
Ian graduated from California H.S. in 2003 and then attended Ohio State University graduating in 2007 on an ROTC scholarship. He graduated Army Ranger School in 2009 and has been stationed at Ft. Hood in Texas assigned to 4th Brigade Combat Team, B Company, 3rd Platoon.
- Welcome Home 1st Lt Thomas Murphy, US Army!
Thomas graduated from Foothill High School in 2004 then went on to UC Berkeley to earn his BS degree in Civil Engineering in 2008.
He joined the Army California National Guard and has been stationed at Ft. Lewis in Washington, Ft. Sill in Oklahoma, Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri, and Ft. McCoy in Wisconsin.
A few months ago he was promoted to First Lt. and Commanding Officer for the 649th Engineer Company in Afghanistan.
Among his accomplishments was being awarded the Army Achievement Medal for Highest Academic Achievement.
- WELCOME HOME SECOND LT. NICOLAS CHRISTIAN
We are so happy to announce Second Lt. Nicolas Christian, U.S. Army, is home from Afghanistan. Nicolas was stationed in southeast Kandahar at the Lagman FOB.
Nick's MOS is a combat engineer and as platoon leader in Afghanistan, he is so proud to admit all his men have come home with him. While deployed he earned a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for outstanding merit in his role of platoon leader
Nick graduated from Foothill in 2006. While at Foothill he founded the "Support the Troops Club". He continued his education at Norwich University in Vermont where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. His next challenge is to attend Sapper School in the Spring.
Thank you for your service to our country Nick, Welcome Home!!
- Wreaths Across America - San Francisco National Cemetery
To Remember, Honor, Teach, is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies on the second Saturday of December at Arlington, as well as veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.
This year WWR, PMF and other local VSOs gathered at the San Francisco National Cemetery situated in the northern center of the Presidio for the ceremonies.
America will never forget those heroes that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
- Aerial Images San Francisco
Flying in a Huey Helicopter over San Francisco California. Dec 2011. Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Palace of Fine Arts, Alameda Point on San Francisco Bay, Bay Bridge, Skyline of The City.
- God's blessings
After my Momma passed away in September, I brought her bird feeder home to my backyard in California. Momma loved to sit and watch the birds feed in front of her window.
I wanted to remember her by doing the same. I watched everyday for the birds to come, but no birds would stop at the feeder.
Today, November 24th, exactly 2 months since Momma was called home, the birds came. I was even able to photograph them as they flew in to grab some seed and pose on the fence posts.
I felt my Mother's presence today, and I thank my God for this wonderful gift He sent me on this Thanksgiving Day.
- Park Bench dedicated in honor of PFC Ethan James Hockman and Sgt Ryan Jeffrey Hopkins
Honoring two of Livermore’s Fallen Heroes on Veterans Day
PFC Ethan James Hockman and Sgt Ryan Jeffrey Hopkins were neighbors and childhood friends as they were growing up in Livermore. They played together in Maitland R. Henry Park located in their neighborhood. Ethan was a graduate of Livermore High School, 2003. His interest in public service began in his high school years when he joined Livermore’s Youth Advisory Commission. He was also very involved with California’s Youth and Government and served as president of that local organization. Ethan received an Army ROTC scholarship to the University of California at Davis. Anxious to serve his country, he withdrew from UC Davis after one year and joined the army. Ethan died on June 19, 2006. Ryan had a love for life and was sure to be found in a crowd. He was known for his outgoing personality. He loved golfing, skate-boarding, wake-boarding, and snow-boarding. Ryan died on Jan 8, 2010 at BAMC.
On Friday, November 11, 2011 Livermore Veteran’s Foundation and Livermore Military Families honored two young men for their service and sacrifice in the War on Terror. A bench overlooking the playground where these two young men played as children was dedicated to them in a ceremony.
- Welcome home US Marines Scott McEtchin and Brandon Alt
Scott graduated from Amador in 2009 and enlisted in the Marines in February 2010. He went to boot camp from June - Sept 2010. He was deployed to Afghanistan March of 2011 as a weapons expert -- he blows up buildings (what Marines love best!) and shoots the Shoulder Mounted Assault Weapon (SMAW). He was in 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 1/5 Marines.
Brandon attended Amador Valley High School and graduated in 2008. He enlisted in the Marines shortly after graduation. He has been deployed twice: once on a MEU and the second time to Afghanistan. During his service, he learned the Afghan language of Pashto and served as the squad's linguist. He also received recognition for preventing security breaches.
Welcome Home Marines. We are all so proud of you.
- My two visits to Ohio, 2011
August 31st 2011...I came to see Momma, for the last time....Sept 5th I came back home to California,
Sept 24th Momma went home to Heaven....
October 6th I went back to say goodby with my sister and two brothers.
Miss my family so much. Love them with all my heart..
.My heart is broken with the passing of our Momma.
- 10th Anniversay of 9-11 at Pleasanton Firehouse #1
US Army Jameson Lindskog Plaque Dedication and 9-11 Remembrance Ceremonies at Pleasanton Firehouse # 1
- 2011 Purple Heart Outdoors Tour Blacktail Hunt Livermore
The Purple Heart Outdoor Tour is supported by Operation One Voice, a 501c3 non-profit organization. Other supporting organizations include: The Mule Deer Foundation, California Deer Association, California Waterfowl Association, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance and Safari Club International.
Purple Heart Outdoor Tour Founder, LTC (retired) Dan Hammack.
USArmy Reserve, Special Forces
(Green Beret)
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This years Heroes are US Army Rangers, 75th Ranger Regiment:
SSG Matthew Jackson
SSG (P) Arnold Fletcher
SFC(P) Tyson Crosby
MSG Craig Bishop
American Hero Paul Johnsen, 911 survivor and NYC
firefighter.
Warriors Watch Riders provided the escort through Pleasanton and Livermore arriving at Robert Rao's Ranch.
74 bikes, 15 cages and 1 HUEY Helicopter.
Can't get much better than this.
- Northern California Warrior Watch Riders 2nd Anniversary Get Together BBQ
- Sgt Wilbur Bernard, WWII Airforce Final Honors
Photo Credits: Spike Schau and Sandee Wiedermann
Video Credits: Diane Cronn
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The WWR was requested to participate in the Final Honors of a WWII Airforce Veteran.Sgt. Wilbur Bernard .
He was stationed in Pearl Harbor when it was attacked.
Sgt. Bernard did not have any family present at his Final Honors. He has a disabled son,which his wife cannot leave.
At her request, some members of WWR attending took pictures which will be shared with the family.
WWR Stood the Flag line at the mortuary as our Hero was carried to his coach. WWR then escorted the Sgt. to Dixon for his service.
Again WWR stood the Flag line as Honors were rendered.
The Air force Honor Guard were there to do the final honors.
DeDe accepted the Flag on behalf of Wilbur's wife.
Thank you DeDe , you have know idea how much this will mean to Wilbur's widow, and son.
Diane prepared the very wonderful Video that you will see at the end of the slideshow.
( Be patient while it loads and some buffering may occur during playback depending on your internet connection speed.)
Perfect!! Bravo Zulu to all of you.
- Welcome Home USMC LCPL Garrett Meyer and LCPL Anthony Hunter
Garrett was always interested in the military so it was no surprise to his parents when he joined the Marines shortly after graduation. He entered the “pooli” program two weeks before his 19th birthday. Garrett had selected Logistics for an MOS but before he left for boot camp he changed his MOS to Infantry because that is where he had always wanted to serve.
He was deployed to Helmand Province in Afghanistan in November 2010. During his deployment, he was assigned to Golf Company's mobile unit where he served in various capacities until his return to MCBH on June 14, 2011.
He is stationed at MCBH at Kaneohe Bay Hawaii and is assigned with 2/3 Golf, 3rd Platoon.
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Anthony Hunter was with Garrett through the same deployment, same unit. His family drove up to surprise us all with an appearance and we were delighted to welcome and honor him with Garrett.
- Lcpl Carlos Orozco USMC Welcome Home
Carlos graduated from Livermore High School in 2007. In the beginning of his senior year he began seriously looking into joining the Marine Corps. He did not consider any other branch, his attitude was "If I'm joining the military it's going to be with the Marine Corps and if I'm joining the Marine Corps, it's Infantry...no other MOS!"
So in October 2006 he met with the local Marine Corps recruiting station in Livermore. And on January 06, 2007 he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps with his choice of MOS being Infantry.
Carlos left for (MCRD) in San Diego on August 20, 2007. After completing 13 weeks of intense and rigorous training he graduated boot camp, with Platoon 1046, Charlie Company on November 16, 2007. After completing School of Infantry training in June 2008 and ITB (Infantry Training Battalion) with Alpha Company on 28 August 2008, Carlos was stationed in Kaneohe Bay Hawaii, 3rd Marine Regiment 2nd Battalion, Golf Company 3rd Platoon 1st Squad.
On March 02, 2009 Carlos was meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal for outstanding performance.
Carlos was deployed on Mother's day 2009 to NOWZAD Afghanistan, in the Helmund District. He was the point man for 1st squad 3rd Platoon in Zad Afghanistan. Carlos engaged in fire fights with the enemy and led his platoon AWAY from IED's. After a very rough deployment he returned home on October 27th, 2010.
Carlos' 2nd tour to Helmund Provence in Afghanistan began November 03 2010 and he returned to his station on June 14, 2011. As part of Golf Company 3rd Platoon 1st squad's missions, they manned patrol bases and were attached to ANP (Afghan National Police) as they went out on patrols.
Carlos has received a Combat Action Ribbon, a Good Conduct Medal, a National Defense Afghanistan Campaign w/Star, a Sea Service Deployment w/ star, Global War on Terrorism and NATO ribbon and also holds a Rifle Expert Badge.
Carlos will be stationed in Hawaii for the duration of his enlistment which will be up in December 2011.
- Welcome Home Lcpl Michael Lamonica USMC
Michael enlisted in the Marine Corp in February 2009 while he was a student at Las Positas community college. He had deferred entry until late July 2009. He graduated MCRD in San Diego in October as Pfc and then attended SOI (school of infantry) graduating in January 2010. He was assigned to Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii with Infantry as his MOS. He was promoted to LCpl in March of 2010.
Michael is in the 2/3 Battalion, Fox Company. The 2/3 is also known as the Island Warriors. They deployed to Afghanistan mid-November 2010. He had many different jobs. At first, they were training the Afghan Army and then Fox Company was temporarily assigned to the 3/9 in the Marjah area. He became a driver for the QRF - Quick Reaction Force- which assisted in emergency situations, provided needed escort and assisted the explosive ordinance and detonation team (they got to go out and blow up weapons caches and IEDS). Later, Michael returned to regular patrols --Lots of them! He returned to Kaneohe Bay with the ADVon team on May 13th.
Michael graduated from Amador in 2008. His favorite past-time is weight training and found time for it in Afghanistan where he was pressing over 400lbs.
- LTC Richard Burroughs US Army Reserves Welcome Home
LTC Richard Burroughs, US Army Reserves, a Pleasanton native and Amador Valley High School graduate, recently returned from a reserve tour of duty in Iraq where he served as General Medical Physician for over 1000 soldiers. He also has served in the United States Army, as Chief of Dermatology, at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The day after this welcome home, LTC Burroughs officially retired from the Army.
Thank you for your service to our country LTC Burroughs.
- Moses McKenzie and Leelan Holliday - images of TPC Stonebrae Birdies for the Brave 2011,
These images were taken by Photographer Moses McKenzie and by Photographer Leelan Holliday.
For more information about these Professional Photographers,
please contact Moses at:
Owner and Freelance Photographer at DropJaw Photography
http://wwwdropjawphotography.tumblr.com/
moses_mckenzie@hotmail.com
Leelan Holliday
http://www.modelmayhem.com/leeholliday
contact Lelanholliday@gmail.com
- TPC Stonebrae Birdies For The Brave
TPC Stonebrae, as part of the PGA TOUR, hosted a Birdies for the Brave golf event to support the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.
Club members as well as the Public were invited to participate by being a sponsor, donor, or playing in the event.
Birdies for the Brave is the PGA TOUR’s primary vehicle for supporting the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. Since 2005, the TOUR has joined with PGA TOUR players and corporate partners to raise millions of dollars for military homefront groups that directly serve military men and women lost or seriously injured in performance of their duty, through fundraising events at TPC clubs nationwide.Net proceeds from this year’s event will be distributed by PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. to the following six beneficiaries:
United Through Reading
Homes For Our Troops
Operation Homefront
The Navy Seal Foundation
Special Operations Warrior Foundation
Wounded Warrior Project
- Welcome Home Lcpl Nicholas Klein, USMC
LCPL Nicholas Klein has returned from a recent tour in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Nicholas is returning to Pleasanton to visit his mother, Laura, and two brothers, Matthew and Christian. Nicholas graduated at Amador High School in 2008 and enlisted in the Marine Corp in February 2009. He is currently station at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. His MOS is artillery but was cross trained to assume infantry duties during his deployment.
A great turnout from both community and WWR along with PGR.
This is what Saturday afternoons were made for. ;-)
Thanks Lcpl Klein for your service to our country. OORAH!
- June Packout 2011
Pre Pack for the 4th of July Care Packages for our local troops at the VFW Hall in Pleasanton CA
- Pleasanton Memorial Day Ceremonies 2011
- US Army SSgt Ricky Seymour Welcome Home
Welcome Home Ricky:
Ricky graduated from Amador High Pleasanton California June 1999
Played Amador football for two years .Amador Wrestling four years made it to state championship during senior year.
Family members.Wife, Danielle.
Daughters. Zamera, Serenity and son Ricky W Seymour the second.
His deployments Jan. 2001 to June 2001 Kosovo
Irag Sept 2003 to March 2004
Irag Dec 2005 to Nov 2006
Irag Dec 2007 to March 2009
Irag March 2010 to March 2011
Ricky is based out of Colorado Springs Fort Carson Colorado.
Inlisted in November 2nd 1999 Airborne North Carolina
Certificate / Commendations
3 Army achievement medals
4 Army commendation medals
3 Good conduct medals
1 Meritorious unit commendation medal
- USMC Lcpl Dan Hazzard Welcome Home
Daniel Hazzard has lived in Livermore since he was 5 months old.
He attended Livermore High School and graduated in 2007.
He then attended Las Positas College studying Fire Science.
In 2008 he worked for the U.S. Department of Forestry. He helped put out the many California wild land fires we had that year.
In 2009 he joined the Marine Corps. and then in September of 2010 he was deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan. Daniel is in 3/5 India Company with the 1st Platoon. He is a Saw Gunner in a 0311 rifle squad.
He has always been a fast runner for how big a guy he is and he cares a lot about his fellow Marines. Out in town, he's a chill guy! From the words of Kyle Fujino, his buddy who is also in the 3/5 and is from Pleasanton.
He is a member of the 3/5 "Darkhorse" Marines that have returned home.
- US Army Mgt Sgt Erwin Ricafrente Welcome Home
Master Sgt. Erwin Ricafrente has just returned from his deployment in Afghanistan. He has been deployed since February 2010.
Spike and the WWR led the escort from the airport.
Erwin was born in the Phillipines and enlisted in the Army Reserve in 1988 requiring his parents signature because he was not of age.
While in Afghanistan he was in charge of building and improving communication on various bases.
Dealing/negotiating with contractors, ordering and handling freight for projects and supervising the project.
He is married to Jeanette and has two small children, Mikkel and Amalie.
- Rick Hanson Final Military Honors
- In Memory of US Navy Veteran, WWR Rick Hanson
One of our own has left us.
Our very good friend Rick Hansen " Black Widow 2 " passed away in his sleep on Saturday, April 30th..
Bob Prater met Rick in early 2010 and invited him
to join us in a welcome home.
Rick was so excited to be part of something special.
He told us that the past year was the best of his life.
To be part of the welcome homes and all we do.It made a difference in his well being and made him feel like he had purpose again. It was Rick and the Black Widow who transported
our service members to the welcome homes.
We will miss you Rick. We will never forget you.
- Jonathan Brookner US ARMY Welcome Home
Returned from serving 12-months in South Korea, taking a three-week leave before reporting to his new assignment at fort Riley Kansas wearing the BIG RED ONE for First Infantry Division. While in South Korea his commanding office promoted him to Specialist on his 18-month after enlistment. Having made a decision to be a career professional soldier he is in process of applying for the GREEN-TO-GOLD program where enlisted soldiers have an opportunity to finish college where upon his new rank is a single-gold bar...Lieutenant.
A graduate of Granada High class of 2004 where he participated as a wrestler plus enjoyed music and being an active member of his temple youth organization. Upon learning of the death of Holly Patterson, a Granada High School student, earned the rank of Eagle, in Boy Scouts of America in her memory and proudly awarded his parent's pins to her parents' at his Eagle Court of Honor.
Welcome Home Jonathan. Thank you for your service to our country
- Funeral Escort for US Army Jameson Lindskog
Jameson Lynn Lindskog, 23, a resident of Pleasanton, California, was killed in action on March 29, 2011 in Afghanistan. Jameson, an Army Medical Technician, was fatally wounded while attempting to provide aid to his fellow soldiers during combat.
Jameson will be remembered for his deep and caring commitment to his family and those he loved, his kindness and sensitivity towards animals, and his deeply rooted sense of right and wrong.
Born May 25, 1987 in San Mateo, California to Donna Marie Walker and Curtis Lynn Lindskog, Jameson graduated from Orion Academy in Moraga in 2006, and then attended NHI to become a Certified Massage Therapist. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and became a Certified Emergency Medical Technician for the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, in Ft. Campbell, Kentucky.
Jameson is survived by his siblings Ken Nekotani and Candace Khattab, his mother and step-father, Donna and Matthew Walker of Pleasanton, CA and his father and step-mother, Curtis Lindskog and Jo Roby of Livermore, CA, as well as numerous other family members, all of which he held very dear.
There are many people we meet in life
Some do great deeds;
But of all that can proudly be called a hero,
There is none greater than
the man who gives his life for country.
- 1ST LT Jeff Salem, US Army
Jeff joined the Army in 2002
Completed Combat Engineer Course in August 2002
Completed Basic Airborne Course in September 2002
Operation Enduring Freedom: Deployed to Afghanistan in 2003 with 27th Engineer Battalion out of Fort Bragg, NC
Received the Army Commendation Medal, The Army Achievement Medal
Entered USMA Prep School at Fort Monmouth, NJ in 2003 and graduated in 2004
Entered USMA at West Point, NY in 2004
Earned the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge in 2005
Completed Air Assault Course in July 2006
Graduated from USMA in 2008 with a Systems Engineering Degree
Stationed at Fort Rucker, AL for Army Aviation Training
Completed Basic Officer Lea1der Course in 2008
Completed Certification in the OH-58D Kiowa Helicopter in July 2010
Stationed at Fort Riley, KS with 1st Infantry Division
Also known as "The Fighting Sixth: 1-6 Cav"
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Deployed to Mosul, Iraq in October 2010 as a Platoon Leader for Bandit Troop
- Colonel Christopher R Buescher, US Marine Corps Reserve Retirement Ceremony
For thirty years this officer has stood the watch...
While some of us were in our bunks at night
This officer stood the watch
While some of us were in school learning our trade
This Colonel stood the watch
Yes...even before some of us were born into this world
this Colonel stood the watch
In those years when the storm clouds of war were seen brewing on the horizon of history this Colonel stood the watch
Many times he would cast an eye ashore and see his family standing there needing his guidance and help, Needing that hand to hold during those hard times
But he still stood the watch
He stood the watch for thirty years; He stood the watch so that we, our families and our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety, Each and every night, Knowing that a Marine stood the watch
Today we are here to say:
'Colonel ... the watch stands relieved.
Relieved by those you have trained ,guided, and led.
Sir, you stand relieved.. we have the watch..."
Our Colonel is going Ashore.."
- Welcome Home US Air Force Eric Heiling
Eric Heiling, Airman 1st Class in the Air Force - fuel systems specialist, returns home from a deployment in Qatar to a very warm welcome home on a chilly February evening.The Warrior Watch Riders picked him up at the airport, then surprised Eric at a local restaurant having dinner with his family.
Thank you Eric for serving our Nation.
God bless America and our Troops.
- Lt John Fields, US Navy Welcome Home
This was a very special welcome home for US Navy Lt. John Benjamin Fields, who returned home after 7 deployments, and leaving the same day for his 8th!
Livermore Military Families arranged a tremendous event.
Lots of people come out in huge numbers on this chilly, early morning to show their support and to give a big warm thank you to one of our local heroes.
From Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan's office, to the Granada High Cheerleaders, ( the first for this group)
City Counselmembers from Pleasanton and Livermore, all the military groups, VFW, BSM's, and others, thank all of you for making this welcome home extra special for our Lt. and his family.
- Welcome Home Cordell Powell US Army
Cordell Powell grew up in Pleasanton, and graduated from Amador Valley High school 2007.
Since he was young he has always wanted to be in the Army and protect our country.
So, He joined the army on the delayed entry program at at 17.
After attending basic training at Fort Seal he returned to Pleasanton for his senior year of high school.
He is now an army specialist stationed at Fort Stewart in Georgia. He is returning from his first deployment in Iraq.
He is a hardworking solider with a lot of dreams for his future in the military. While on tour he rein-listed for 4 more years.
He will be home for the holiday's and his 21st birthday.
- Pleasanton Military Families Christmas Pack-out for our Troops 2010
Unbelievable. What a wonderful team we all are. It was the Superbowl of PMF packouts for sure.
Friday afternoon and evening...the "prepack" sorting....we must have had 30 helpers and WE NEEDED EVERY SINGLE ONE! The amount of donations was a record. We had shifts of people working from 4pm to 9pm Friday night organizing, sorting, zip locking soaps and smell goods, box prep and adding more names and addresses as needed.... And the donations kept arriving....
This work was well worth the effort as on Saturday there were at least 60 people that arrived to help pack boxes. With all of our pre-organizing, we had teams in the box room, Christmas room, toiletries table, two food teams for those 4 tables, another table for socks, T shirts and towels, fun stuff, a room for books and magazines and the "girls only" table. The grand finale was the taping station where Sherry had no problem getting a bunch of handsome brutes to help her with adding letters and cards to the boxes and taping boxes shut for the journey to the post office and then off to far away places....
- Veteran's Day Parade 2010
VFW Post 6298 was the host for the 2010 Tri-Valley Veterans Day Parade on Main Street in Pleasanton CA
The theme of this year's parade was "America's Navy: A Global Force for Good."
After the Parade, a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Building was held with Admiral Jud Scott of the U.S. Navy speaking and honoring our veterans.
It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, but folks still came out to show their honor and respect for our Nation's Veterans.
To all who have served and those currently serving in our Nation's Armed Forces.....America Thanks You!!
- 2010 Lafayette Flag Brigade 9-11 Memorial
Bryan Weldon and Jim Minder along with the member of The Lafayette Flag Brigade did a tremendous job this year putting together the 9th annual 9-11 Memorial Tribute to the tragic day when America was attacked by Terrorists.
These are a few of the pictures depicting the event this year, along with music with the recorded sounds and words of the people on 9-11-01
- Patricia Lee Hagberg , US Navy Funeral Ceremony
Patricia Lee Hagberg Oct. 29, 1940 ~ Aug. 22, 2010 Resident of Pleasanton Patricia "Pat" passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Valley Care Medical Center. Pat was born in Upland, California on October 29, 1940 to Rollin and Mary Lemon. Her greatest pleasure was spending time with family and friends. Pat was an outgoing and adventurous child. She joined the Navy Waves when she graduated from high school, and soon thereafter married the love of her life, Edward W. Hagberg. She started babysitting her kids and their friends and that quickly grew into a home business of watching the neighborhood kids after school. When her kids grew up, she went on to work for General Electric as a Security Supervisor and retired in 2006 to begin the happiest time of her life. She spent every waking moment with her four grandchildren. Some of the best times of her life were when she was playing with her dogs or watching her grandchildren play soccer, baseball or football. She had no problem expressing her opinion, especially to the umpires when they made a questionable call or when she felt her grandchild wasn't being treated fairly. Pat, always an adrenaline junkie, consistently took on the challenges to do things that her grandchildren or friends attempted to do like riding roller coasters, water slides, jet skis, bungee jumping, and zip lines. She enjoyed traveling and spending quality time in Las Vegas, Tahoe, and Southern CA. During her spare time, she enjoyed playing computer games and winning at her computer slot machine. She also enjoyed making and designing leather belts, watch-bands, and wristbands for her kids and their friends. She touched the lives of many people and was the glue that held her family together. Constantly energetic to support her family, she attended many functions for her children and grandchildren bringing excitement and joy to her entire family. When her daughters were young, she proudly managed their softball games alongside her husband, "Coach" Ed, and enjoyed scorekeeping and leading cheers for the team. Her kindness and loving spirit will be painfully missed by her family and friends. Pat is survived by her husband Ed; daughters Robin Martin and Teri Kolon; son Eddie Hagberg; grandchildren Joseph, Nicholas, Dylan, and Haley; sister Helen and brother-in-law Hal Edmon; and her many loving relatives and dear friends. She is preceded by her parents Rollin and Mary Lemon.
- Welcome Home Elliott Loewenstein, US Army
PFC Elliott Loewenstein graduated from Amador High School in 2005. Since he was a little boy he has always played army men and GI Joes, dressed in army fatigues and made weapons out of anything he could find. The books he liked the most had to do with army or war.
In 2006 he joined the United States Coast Guards Port Security. He attended the Department of Homeland Security Coast Guard Center in Cape May New Jersey (Boot Camp)
In Dec. 2006 he attended Engineering and Weapons School in Yorktown Virginia and completed Gunner’s Mate “A” School .
In September 2007 He decided it wasn’t enough action so he enlisted into the US Army Infantry Division and went for the “second time” to boot camp in Fort Benning Georgia .
He attended Fort Bragg for Weapon Specialist.
In August of 2009 he left Fort Bragg and went to Fort Drum New York 10th mountain division. He was deployed to Iraq in the fall of 2009, his job was a gunner in the turret of the Humvee and after a long 10 months returned home in Aug. 2010.
Elliott is the oldest of 4 children, 2 brothers and 1 sister and many extended family members who supported him through his years of service.
Elliott will return to Fort Drum after 1 month R & R to complete his remainder of his enlistment.
- Bryan Welden Appreciation Cermony
BRYAN WELDEN, RESIDENT OF WALNUT CREEK, CO-FOUNDER OF LAFAYETTE FLAG BRIGADE,WAS HONORED AND RECOGNIZED FOR HIS DEVOTION TO WELCOME HOME OUR TROOPS AS THEY RETURN TO THEIR COMMUNITIES AND FAMILIES.
HE HAS SPENT THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS PROMOTING PATRIOTISM AND HONORING OUR TROOPS ALL OVER THE EAST BAY. HE HAS EXPANDED THE ROLE OF LAFAYETTE FLAG BRIGADE TO SOMETHING HE CALLS "OPERATION WELCOME HOME"
THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF WALNUT CREEK ALONG WITH SEVERAL OTHER ORGANIZATIONS PRESENTED BRYAN WITH AWARDS AND CERTIFICATES TO SHOW THEIR DEEP APPRECIATION FOR HIS COMMITMENT TO THIS PATRIOTIC CAUSE.
- Welcome Home Spc Ben Wigley, US Army
Ben graduated in 2001 from Del Valle High school in Livermore. He enlisted in the Army in 2005. Went to boot camp at Fort Knox in Kentucky.
He served in Iraq and then Kuwait in 2006. Back to Kentucky to Fort Campbell in 2007 where he and Maricris were married in Dec. Then was deployed to Afghanistan in 2008 til Nov. of 2009 when he was sent home to be with his mom for a couple of days before she died. His Dad had previously died before he enlisted. He was honorably discharged as Specialist. His M.O.S. was Generator and air conditioning repair.
He is now enrolled in school studying solar installation. He and
Maricris now live in Livermore.
- Jack's Red Egg and Ginger Party
In Chinese culture, a baby's first month birthday calls for a celebration. Proud parents introduce their latest addition to friends and relatives by holding a red egg and ginger party.
For Jack, he was about 4 1/2 months old and Jack's grandparents, Bob and Harriet Haber were the host and hostess for this special event.
- VFW Post 6298 EBSD Bags for Veterans
Pleasanton VFW Post 6298 purchased 300 large canvas laundry bags to give to the Veterans attending the 2010 East Bay Stand Down event . These bags were decorated by the patrons of the Alameda County Fair, as well as local citizens who stopped by the American Legion Tent during the 1st Wednesday Street Fair in Pleasanton CA. Most notably were the school children of several local schools who participated in decorating about 100 of these laundry bags.
- SSGT Robert Gross US Air Force
Dan Gross had a great idea last summer.
One of Dan's most favorite things are the “Welcome Homes” that he attends in Northern California. "They express a great deal of participation & patriotism in the Bay Area, and they are very popular with the local communities where I live. We are so blessed that there are people who care about our troops so much."
Dan's father, Robert V Gross was about to celebrate his 78 birthday on August 16th. Each year the Gross family has a mini reunion at Dan's sister’s home in Reno NV to celebrate his birthday. It just so happens that this was also the 55th anniversary of his dad's separation from the USAF.
"My idea was to tell my dad that I have a PGR Mission in Reno the same day as his party, August 15 but in the morning. I would trailer my bike to Reno the night before so I would be ready for the ride. I then asked him if he wants to ride with me for his birthday and see what the PGR does!!! He hears me talking about it all the time. We staged near my sisters house, visited for a bit with the other vets and then went back to the house for his “Welcome Home”.
It certainly was a birthday Robert will always remember as a very special day and a long overdue Welcome Home for this American Hero.
- PMF Appreciation BBQ Picnic
Pleasanton Military Families invited The Warrior Watch Riders,
Pleasanton VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary,
Pleasanton American Legion,
and the Lafayette Flag Brigade
to a Summer Barbecue to thank them for all they do for our troops!
We so appreciate everything they have done for us to help
make our Homecomings so festive, exciting and memorable!!!
AND
We couldn’t keep our Packouts going so successfully if
they hadn’t given us opportunities for fundraising….
with events such as the Gala, 1st Wednesdays and the Boutique.
It was a great day and so many of our friends came out to make this a very successful event.
- Welcome Home LCpl Jennifer Harper USMC
LCpl Jennifer Harper,
USMC, flew from Okinawa to San Francisco. on June 22nd, Took BART to Pleasanton and a
cab to the house. NO ONE KNEW she was coming!! What a huge surprise
for her family!!
She was not expected home on leave until January. All the facebook
Marines kept the secret!! Jenny is recently back from a MEU.
So, her parents decided to SURPRISE Jenny with a welcome home celebration on June 27th and what a surprise it was.
- Cpl Kyle Braun USMC Welcome Home
Kyle graduated from Amador in 2005 and entered Marine Corps Basic Training in
2006. He was a recruiter's dream as he had wanted to be part of the
Corps for a long time, walked into the recruiters office and said "where
do I sign?"
Courses taken during his service: Marine Corps Cannon
Crewman Course 2006, Howitzer Section Chief Course 2009. One deployment
to Iraq, Al Taqqadim (TQ) for 10 months in performing base security
functions. Lead a section of Marines in garrison and field duties,
trained Marines in multiple weapon systems, tactics and techniques,
worked with allied nation's military personnel to
familiarize them with USMC equipment. Served four years in Marine
Corps.In June of 2009 he received Good Conduct Medal for exemplary
service, Oct. '09 received letter of Appreciation for familiarizing
officers of the Uzbekistan Naval Infantry with the M777A2 Howitzer.
Kyle
has a brother and sister, mother, father, and step father who supported
him during his service, as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins.
- Welcome home at Camp Parks for Petty Officer IS1 Noah Rael
THIS IS OUR FIRST COAST GUARD HOMECOMING WE HAVE DONE.
Petty Officer IS1 Noah Rael, USCG SDC Analyst Afghan Threat Finance Cell, Bagram
- Staff Sgt. Sean D. Diamond Ribbon Cutting and Memorial Ceremony
A new Army Reserve center at Camp Parks has been named for a fallen Dublin
soldier.
The Staff Sgt. Sean D. Diamond Army Reserve Center was dedicated
Saturday June 12th, 2010 at a ceremony that included Sean's wife, Loramay
Diamond, and their four children; his mother, Sally Wiley, as well as many other family
members. and friends of SSGT Diamond.
The two-story, 47,000-square-foot building was completed in April 2010.
Staff Sergeant Diamond was killed in Iraq on Feb. 15, 2009, He died when a roadside
bomb exploded near his vehicle in As-Salaam, Iraq
He.was assigned to the 610th Engineer Support Company, 14th Engineer Battalion,
555th Engineer Brigade, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Sean also worked in maintenance for the Dublin school district from 1996 to
2000.
The building will provide office space for the administration of the 368th
Military Intelligence Battalion, 352nd Combat Support Hospital, 319th Signal
Battalion, 213th Facility Engineers, 380th Military Police, 7305 Dental
Activities Unit, C. Company Small Arms Readiness Group, Western Information
Operations Center and Army Reserves Command
- Welcome Home SGT MJR Ben Inderbitzen
Ben has served in the US Army for 27 Years and has been a Communications Sergeant, Special Forces Qualification Instructor, Team Sergeant (A-Team) , First Sergeant and is currently a Special Forces Company Sergeant Major.
We are all grateful to Ben for his service to our Country
To his family and to America, he is our Hero!
Welcome Home Ben.
- Kristopher Smith US Navy
Welcome Home celebration for US Navy Kristopher Smith.
Kris with a K, as
he is known, has buddies in Pleasanton who joined the
military as well. They are both Cris' with a C!! This has been a life
long passion of his and his ultimate hope is to be a SEAL!! He was a
Navy Cadet for two years while in High School.
- Welcome Home PO2 Andrew Michael Comisky Navy, EOD
Andrew left on October 12 for Iraq. He was stationed at Warhorse, in Diyala Providence, and the city was Baquoba . That is a base north of Baghdad.
While there he was attached to an Army unit. He partnership with the Iraq Police in preparation for the elections. He was point for Base Response. Andrew and his EOD group would go with the Army and check for IEDs. If there was an explosion of any type, he and his group would go and check out the area. He was also in charge of all of their inventory from before they left VA, until they cleared customs in Iraq.
Andrew is the youngest one of their group. He just turned 22 on March 27. He has wanted to be in the Navy since he was in 5th grade.
- US Army Spc Matthew Grubb
Matt has recently returned from almost a year of "hard" combat duty in Afghanistan. He served with Alpha Company, 509 Airborne Infantry in Pattika Provence. Early in his deployment he was out on a mission with fellow soldiers when his MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle and the vehicle hit an IED (Improvised Explosive Device)(all survived) (most had concussions) and Matt who was up in the Gunner's Turret had some metal containers fall on him and he was knocked unconscious and had to be medically evacuated out by an Army Medical Evac helicopter to a Field Hospital. For sure this young soldier deserved this great Pleasanton Welcome Home!
- Welcome Home Airman Johnny Woodman
A well deserved and warm Welcome Home for Johnny Woodman, USAF.
In beautiful Livermore California.
Thanks to all who came out to make this a very special evening for Johnny and his family.
- Welcome Home US ARMY Spc. Taylor Gavello
Taylor has just returned from his deployment from Takrit, Iraq where he served as a combat medic
- Vietnam Veteran's Welcome Home
Dear Vietnam Veteran,
I know I should have written much sooner. I can’t say why I did not. Out of fear of admitting to myself you were there, fighting a war; or maybe ashamed – ashamed that I never accepted the things you felt you had to do.
Whatever it is, I know how it must hurt. Believe me when I say it hurts me more. I have the burden of your hurt plus that of my own. The pain of not being able to show my true feeling toward you.
I am not writing this for the months you served in VietNam, but for the many years you were left alone with only your brother Veterans. You served proudly and it went unmentioned.
For a long time, I’ve wanted to express the words. The words an honorable Veteran needs to hear: For a long time, I’ve wanted to hold you during your times of pa8in.
God knows I wanted to. And only He knows why I never found the courage. I do not remember what I used to say; maybe I do not want to remember. All I know is I hope that it is not too late to give you those things now.
For years you tried to be part of my world. Doing everything to please me, just to be noticed and given a little time and understanding…
I look back and see the demands I placed on by our shoulders when you were young. “Fight your weakness, and always show strength to others around you.”
Who was I to make such a demand?
I sit here with tears in my heart; finally admitting to myself the one weakness you must have seen in me and never questioned. My inability to say the words that I know would have meant so much to you.
Welcome home. You served your country honorably.
Please hear these words now, from my heart Please give me a chance to be a part of your world now.
The world I should have been part of long ago.
Love - America
- Easter Packout 2010
- Welcome Home USN Petty Officer 2nd. Class, David Wainscott
From a very early age David KNEW he wanted to join the military. He looked into several branches of the military before settling on the Navy. In November of 2004 he signed up with the Navy's DEP (delayed entry program) He worked with the Livermore recruiters for nearly a year preparing for entry into the Navy's nuclear power program. He graduated high school in 2005 and entered the Navy in August of 2005.
Boot camp was in Chicago. From there he was in Power School in
Charleston, South Carolina for several years of training. In 2007 he
was assigned to the USS Georgia....the latest of the Ohio class boomer
subs outfitted to be a general nuclear submarine. He married his lovely
bride in October 2007. At the same time they were newly stationed at
Kingsbay, Georgia for David to start his career on his first sub. He is
presently an E5 or Petty Officer Second Class The USS Georgia was a bit delayed in her retrofitting, so he just returned from his first official tour of duty and is due to go out again for his second in April 2010.
- yellow streamers
Chris Miller, Vietnam Veteran, US Army, arraigned with the city of Pleasanton California to honor our local Military by hanging yellow streamers
- Captain Hultgren
- Sgt Douglas Winter US Army Welcome Home
Douglas is finally home from a year in Afghanistan, Sgt Winter is with the 10th. Mountain Division US Army and has served 2 tours defending and protecting our freedom. We are proud and thankful to him and his family.
- A special Welcome Home for Sgt. Thai Pham , US Army
The WWR was honored to surprise Sgt Thai Pham who served in the US Army 528th Special Ops Battalion,with a overdue and well deserved Welcome Home.
.
Sgt.Pham was making a jump in Afghanistan and was injured , His spine took a bad hit when he landed. He was in for 3 years before this happened.
He has the Army Achievement Medal, Combat Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon and several more.
He never had a proper welcome home so Spike talked to his boss and told him we wanted to give Thai a welcome Home at his work. He was all for it and help to set it up.
This was our first welcome home of this type.
- Spc. 1st Class Adam Vanderhoofven US Army
US Army SFC Adam Vanderhoofven has returned from his second tour to the Middle East to a very warm Welcome Home in Livermore California.
Hooah!
- Ryan's Family Photos
- Fallen Hero US Army SGT Ryan Jeffrey Hopkins
SGT Ryan Jeffrey Hopkins, 21, died on January 8th 2010 at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) at Ft Sam Houston Texas.
Ryan was born in Livermore, CA. August 13 1988. Ryan had a love for life and was sure to be found in a crowd. He was known for his outgoing personality and had many friends.
Some of his favorite things to do were skate-boarding, playing golf, off-roading, snowboarding and wake boarding.
Ryan attended Livermore High School. Shortly after graduating, he joined the US Army. His basic training was at Ft Leonard Wood, TX. He was stationed at Ft Carson Colorado where he met his wife Kathryn ("Kitty') in their unit; 3-29FA, 3BCT/4ID. They were married in September 2007. Ryan and Kitty were deployed to Iraq in December 2007.
In October of 2008, Ryan was severely injured and suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns to over 55% of his body. He spent almost 4 months in ICU at BAMC recovering from burns. He had been steadily improving and died unexpectedly after reconstructive surgery.
Ryan is survived by his wife Kathryn Hopkins and his parents David and Janet and brothers Aaron (wife Felicia) and Chad and sister Leda.
- US Army BN Sendoff BBQ
US Army Unit will soon be deploying. In an effort to show our support, the Veterans of Foreign Wars is hosting a BBQ for members of the Unit and their family on January 11th.
- Captian Michael Moyer US Army
A warm welcome home for Pleasanton's own US Army Capt. Micheal Moyer.
A condensed BIO:
Michael went to Foothill High School, Pleasanton - graduated 2001, played volleyball, and was in wrestling
Attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo - BA Psychology He graduated in 2005
Army ROTC at Cal Poly
Got combat scuba, bubble patch, the summer between freshman and sophomore
George Marshall Cadet
commissioned: 2nd Lieutenant and went to army flight school at Fort Rucker in Alabama
Earned Ranger Tab 2006
Married in Mexico June 2008 to Kristin Creech
Went to Bagram, Afghanistan as a Captain, at end of Oct. 2008.
- Welcome Home Captain Jared Miller US Army
About 150 or more well wishers came out to welcome home one of our local heroes, US Army CPT Jared Miller
Jared grew up in Pleasanton and graduated from Foothill High School in 2002. In 2006, he graduated from the University of Colorado where he took ROTC and was commissioned as a 2LT in the US Army. The following month he entered active duty spending his first year in flight school where he became a CH-47 (Chinook) pilot. Jared spent his second year in the Army flying in Honduras and his third year flying in Afghanistan. He is assigned to the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY where he currently leads a CH-47 flight platoon.
Thank you for your service Jared and WELCOME HOME!!
- USMC Cpl Tyler Johnson
Welcome Home USMC Cpl. Tyler Johnson
Dec. 21st. 7:00pm.
Tyler graduated 2007 from Monte Vista High School. Lettered in Varsity Wrestling Joined the Marines 2007
Basic training at MCRD , SOI (School of Infantry) at Camp Pendleton BRC (Basic Riders Course) at Camp Pendleton
Assigned to 2nd Recon out of Camp Lejeune ,Sniper School – 2009 Hawaii
Deployed to Afghanistan May 2009 thru December 2009, spent all his time in the southern Helmand province
- USMC Lcpl Noble
A warm welcome Home for US Marine Tony Noble. Tony's mom, Loretta Masnada, is a member of Contra Costa Blue Star Moms Ch. 20.
Tony grew up in Concord, CA, and attended Concord High School. .
Tony enlisted with the Marine Corps in late 2007 and graduated from Basic Training in February 2008, at which time he was promoted to Private First Class. He graduated from School of Infantry in May 2008, received an award for Missleman Honor Graduate, and was promoted to Lance Corporal. He is based at Camp Pendleton.
Lcpl Noble has just returned from a deployment to Afghanistan.
- Receiving Line
Mr and Mrs Schau receive their guests.
- The Schau Wedding Reception
Spike and Julie's wedding reception. Friends and family wish many happy years to a wonderful couple.
- The Wedding
Spike and Julie exchange vows to love and cherish one another in marriage.
General Helix presides over the ceremony.
Many, many friends and family members join together to witness this very special day.
- Christa and Olivia
2009 Christmas Card pictures
- packout Christmas 2009
- Julie's Bridal Shower
- Surprise Escort Staging
Our surprise escort for Spike, Julie and Heidi's Thank You ceremony
- Veterans Day Parade 2009
The City of Pleasanton California honors America's Veterans with a Parade on downtown Main Street. This year the US Marine Corps Devil Dogs take top honors.
- usmc Lcpl Chris Trader Homecoming
WE WELCOME HOME LANCE CORPORAL CHRIS TRADER, USMC.
CHRIS IS A FOOTHILL 2007 GRAD, AND HAS JUST TURNED 20 YEARS OLD. HE BRAVELY SERVED IN AFGHANISTAN FOR 8 MONTHS.
HIS M.O.S IS A FIREFIGHTER.
HIS PROUD DAD AND STEPMOM ARE PMF'S OWN JEFF AND MAREN TRADER
HIS LOVELY GIRLFRIEND IS ALICIA WONG
- GATKIN/AGUILAR
LPFD Fire Captain Josh Gatkin, fellow Firefighters, family and friends welcomed home 4 California National Guardsmen from 1-184 Infantry Bravo Company
OUR RETURNING HEROES ARE:
Cpl. Justin Aguilar
Spc. Jonathan Gatkin
Not present but honored:
Sgt. Michael Avila
Sgt. David Peterson
We thank them for their service to our country and so happy to have them back home..
- Welcome Home Cpl Joshua Woodruff USMC
A combined Welcome Home, Thank You and End of Service celebration for Joshua as he returns from his second tour in Iraq. Proud Parents Renee and Jon Woodruff along with family and friends, WWR and PGR , LFPD, and boy scouts, came to give honor and thanks to this brave Marine for his service to our country.
- Service for American Hero ,WW II U.S. Navy Chief Howard M. “Van” Vandevanter
Howard M. Vandevanter "Van" Aug. 3, 1925 - Sept. 30, 2009
Resident of Livermore Van was born in Mattoon, IL. to Orville and Iola Vandevanter. He was employed as an electrician at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory for 35 years and also taught journeyman electrician for the IBEW. Van was the beloved husband of 63 years, to Muriel Vandevanter and Father of Dale, Gary, and Rob Vandevanter. Van was a devoted Grandfather of 10 and great Grandfather of 15.
- LCpl Christopher Partridge
US Marine, LCpl Christopher Partridge is home form his deployment to Iraq.
A wonderful celebration to thank him for his service to our country. The entire neighborhood plus many, many PMF members and WWR and PGR were on hand to make this a very special evening for Chris and his family.
The neighbors made a lot of food for everyone too.
Certainly a night to remember.
Thanks to everyone who participated.
- USMC Lcpl Christopher Motl
Welcome Home US Marine Christopher Motl. Christopher's unit has been stationed in Ramadi, Iraq, where he has been training Iraqi Police
Chris was trained as a machine gunner, and was also the Cougar MRAP Vehicle Driver.
Before joining the marines, Chris was a Boy Scout, where he advanced to the rank of Eagle Scout.
Chris also joined the Antioch PD as a Explorer, with his sites set on a degree in criminal justice.
Sounds like Chris is another one of those great Americans that the marines are honored to have in their ranks.
- Vietnam Veteran Sgt. Larry Fields , US Army
A long over due Welcome Home and Thank you for Sgt Fields.
This Veteran also has a Silver Star , RVN Gallantry Cross ,3 Purple Hearts , 4 Bronze Medals
4 Army Air Medals and many more.
What a wonderful, brave soldier. We are all so very grateful for his service to our country, and finally had the chance to let him know how much this community appreciates all he did to defend and protect our freedom.
- Honoring Chris Miller for his support of our Military and Their Families
The Pleasanton Military Families Support Group, known for its boisterous welcome home celebrations for troops returning from service in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan, gathered Saturday to honor one of their own--Chris Miller, who has stepped down as its president.Thank you Chris for all you have done and continue to do for us all.
- LFB 9-11 Event
- US Army Sgt Michelle Sanchez Welcome Home
Sergeant Michelle K Sanchez joined the Army Reserves on May 25, 2002
and attended Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, SC. Upon completion of
basic training, she was sent to Ft. Eustis, VA for AIT training and
was awarded the MOS 88H Cargo Specialist. Upon graduation of AIR, she was assigned to the 211th TC reserve unit in Valejo, CA where she
deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from January
2003 to August 2004. In May 2006, she made the decision to go Active
Duty and was assigned to the 1st CTC in Kaiserslautern, Germany where she worked as a Cargo Specialist. In October 2006, she was selectedto serve as the driver for the DCG of HHC, 21st TSC. In August 2007 she moved to Grafenwoehr, Germany and was assigned to the HHC, 18th CSSB where she served as the Battalion Commander Secretary. She is currently serving as the HHC, PAC NCOIC.
Her awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Army
Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign
Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service
Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" Device, Combat Action Badge and the Drivers Badge.
- Spc Aaron Jagger US Army - Welcome Home
- US Army Spc Kester Willy ( short version)
- Cpl Aaron McCrea Pre-deployment send-off & LCpl Travis McCrea Welcome Home
On Sunday, August 30th, the Mc Crea Family of Livermore, gave a surprise Welcome Home for son Travis, returning from his tour on the USS Boxer. In addition, brother Aaron will be redeploying at the end of September and will be home for his pre-deploy leave.
The family was escorted by Warriors' Watch Riders.
- US Marines, Cpl Minerva, Cpl Zinke-Zagarella, LCpl Silva- Welcome Home
- Specialist Kester Willy, US Army - Welcome Home
- Welcome Home Sgt Behrendt USMC
Thank you Kevin for your service. We are all so glad to have you back home.
- Sgt Cristian Valle, US Army Wounded Warrior, Wedding Celebration
Sgt Cristian Valle joined the Army in 2001. He came home on leave from Iraq to marry his fiance, Blanca.
Sgt. Valle, with his company stationed in Badal, Iraq, was investigating a kidnapping during his second tour in 2005 when an IED was thrown near his vehicle. Valle lost his legs as a result of that attack
His young wife joined him at Walter Reed where she gave birth to their son. Imagine - a 22 yr old male waking up from a medically induced coma, new wife, new son, no legs.
Marilyn Carter , from Livermore Veterans Foundation has been involved with the Sgt. And his family for some time. They never had a proper wedding,so Marilyn has arranged one for them.
this was also a Welcome Home that he never received.
Warriors' Watch Riders provided a Flag Line and an Honor Escort from the Church to the Reception.
- Welcome Home LCPLAndy Bowen
- Recognition Ceremony
The Lafayette Marine Corps League invited PGR and the Warriors’ Watch Riders to their Post for a Pancake Breakfast and Recognition Ceremony.
- Service for Henry Phillip Mutz Sr - Staff Sgt. US Army WWII
Henry Phillip Mutz Sr. Sept. 25, 1920-July 20, 2009 Resident of San Ramon Past Resident of Fort Bragg & Yuba City "Hank" was born in New Milford, New Jersey. He loved his wife Marjorie. They were married for 62 years, before she passed away in 2005. God had a lot for Henry to do in his 88 years. He was a young teenager during the Great Depression of the 1930s. As a 20 year old he enlisted in the Army in 1940. He served as a Staff Sgt. in the 644th TD Tank Destroyer Battalion during WWII, participating in the Normandy Invasion and European Theater where he received 2 Purple Hearts and the Silver Star for gallantry in action. After the war he settled in to the Yuba City area and was a successful Branch Manager for Foremost Dair- ies for 27 years, and also served as Lieutenant Governor of Kiwanis. He was a faithful father -raising 3 children - John, Karen, and Henry, Jr. (Flip). He and Marge retired to Fort Bragg in 1977 where he stayed busy with his passion of commercial salmon fishing. In 1995 they had to leave their coastal property and relocate to San Ramon for medical reasons. While in the Tri-Valley area, Henry attended Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) for 14 years and was a member of Cedar Grove Community Church in Livermore. He served faithfully for many years ministering to veterans at the VA Hospital in Livermore, sharing visitation, comfort, friendship and God's love to patients. He is survived by 10 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
- SSGT Sean Diamond memorial dedication ceremony
Dublin City Council honoring the memory of Army Staff Sergeant Sean Diamond. With a Memorial Plaque Dedication,
- New Base Tribute to Fallen Hero SSG Sean Diamond US Army
AL SALAM, Iraq - On Feb. 15, as the Soldiers of the 571st Sapper Company moved to a new base to prepare for a large-scale company operation in Diyala Province, they were given some bad news: A fellow member of the 14th Engineer Battalion had been killed by an IED explosion in Al Salam, Iraq.
- Airman SSgt Sean Pellaton- Welcome Home
Sean is returning from his second tour of duty in Afghanistan. His first was at Bagram Air Base about 25 miles north of Kabul in 2008. This tour was a little more dangerous as he was stationed on the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan at Kandahar and then at an outward staging area for about a month. Sean's Duty is Combat Search and Rescue as a Door Gunner. He is a crew member of four flying the HH60G Pave Hawk Helicopter manning either a Mini Gatling gun or a 50 cal big weapon. They flew about 3 to 5 missions a day mostly rescuing injured Afghani civilians that have been victims of car bombing, mortar attacks and/or gun fire.
- Funeral Service for US Army Captain Alf N. Larsen Dec. 4, 1921~June 26, 2009
Warriors Watch Riders, Patriot Guard Riders and Patriot Sentinel Riders, along with members of the Livermore VFW, Pleasanton Military Families and OPSAM honor US Army Captain Alf N. Larsen, 87 years old, 96th Fighter Squadron, 82nd Fighter Group, WWII, at his funeral service at Callaghan Mortuary / Memory Gardens Cometary Livermore CA
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beloved father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather, pass- ed away at home on June 24, 2009 at the age of 87. Alf was born in Ogden, Utah on December 4, 1921, son of Alf and Vera Larsen. Alf's early passion in life was flying and he took his first solo flight at age 18 in a J2 Cub at Mines Field in Los Angeles. After graduating from Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, he joined the Army Air Corps in October 1942. During WWII, Alf served with the 96th Fighter Squadron, 82nd Fighter Group in North Africa and Italy, flying an amazing 50 missions in his Lockheed P-38 Lightning. After successfully completing active duty with the rank of Captain, Alf remained in the Air Force reserves until October 1966, retiring with the rank of Major. His love of flying continued to drive his professional career as he joined Southwest Airways as a first officer in April 1952 and was checked out as a Captain in December 1958. When he retired, 29 years later from Republic Airlines, (formerly Hughes Airwest), he had logged over 22,000 hours of flight time always getting his many passengers to their destinations safely. Previously of Hayward, CA, Alf was a resident of Livermore, CA for 24 years. He was an avid golfer, tennis player and bicyclist and enjoyed traveling with his wife and friends. He will be remembered for his constant and consistent service to others, always willing to help and generous to all. He was a man of integrity and honor with a quiet courage to always do right by others.
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We thank you Captain Larsen for your service to our great nation. You are and will forever be a True American Hero. You will never be forgotten by those who enjoy freedom, prosperity and safety here in The United States of America.
- LCpl Waldron - Photos by Robin Neal
Warriors Watch Riders escort wounded warrior LCpl Timothy Waldon to his Welcome Home Celebration in Pleasanton CA
- Wounded Warrior LCpl Tim Waldron USMC Welcome Home
1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division which is currently attached to the amphibiously deployed 13th MEU which has been a reserve force for CENTCOM and has been conducting counter-piracy mission around Somalia. On May 25 Tim Waldron was severely injured by a defective mortar explosion during an exercise in Djibouti. Essentially a bad round exploded in the mortar tube and Tim and another marine were hit.
Tim had a flack jacket on but received serious shrapnel wounds with abdominal, heart, rectal and stomach injuries, as well as serious damage to his neck and jaw.
A corpsman at the scene provided immediate treatment which is credited with saving Tim's life. The other marine's injuries were less serious.
Tim Waldron joined the Marines a few months after graduating from Davis High School in 2005. He went to Iraq in the summer of 2007, serving a few miles from Fallujah.
This go-round, he was on a six-month tour of duty with Bravo Company, arriving in the Gulf of Aden on the troop carrier USS Comstock on May 23.
Tim is doing very well and will be heading back to Camp Pendleton on July 9th
Thank you LCpl Waldron for your service to our country. We are all indebted to you for your Dedication to Duty, Honor, and Country.
- Cool Military Truck
Received these in an email, thought it would be easier to share this way
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This IS truly awesome! This guy really is gifted. Check this out....make sure you look at everything well. The Flag is under the fenders behind the wheels.
- Airman 1st Class Kristie Miller Homecoming
Airman 1st Class Kristie Miller from the 718th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Kadena Air Base, . Airman Miller from the 33rd Rescue Squadron returned recently from a deployment to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
Kristie's proud and very happy parents are Scott and Becky Miller.
- MOM
- Garrett's visit
- Service for Vietnam Veteran Marine Lance Cpl George Apostol, and his mother
Permission granted by family to post photos.
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George Apostol, a Vietnam Veteran, US Marine, Lance Cpl , and his 80-year-old mother, Gloria, died when he apparently suffered a heart attack, lost consciousness and crashed his Dodge pickup into a telephone pole in Livermore Sunday May 24th.
George Apostol was driving with his mother and sister next to him when he lost consciousness, drifted into the opposite traffic lane, sideswiped a parked car and then crashed into a telephone pole.
Apostol's mother, Gloria, suffered major injuries in the crash and was taken to Eden Hospital. Shet died there later that night while undergoing surgery.
George's sister Diana, also of Livermore, suffered minor injuries. She was taken to Eden Hospital and was released later that day.
Apostol suffered only minor injuries in the crash but died from his heart condition at Valley Care Hospital on May 26.
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Per Spike:
Before the mission was posted,and I was told "No Honors" Due to no paperwork,but then found too late for Military Honors. NO,not with me,no-one gets left behind.A couple of phone calls to the right team members and it was on."
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Per Jeff Emmanuel:
"VFW Sr. Vice Commander, Rick Kompara, really did a lot as well as he got the weapons and flags and took charge of the color guard even though he had not done anything like that before."
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A letter from the son of George Apostol:
Patriot Guard Riders and other supporting organizations
George Apostol, Livermore, CA, 30 MAY 09.
June 01, 2009
Dear Patriot Guard Riders,
While searching on the internet for news articles of Lance Corporal George V. Apostol’s passing, I discovered the Patriot Guard Riders forum thread George Apostol, Livermore, CA, 30 MAY 09. I cannot begin to express the over whelming emotions of pride and love that filled my heart as I read each post. The Patriot Guard Riders and other organizations pulled off an amazing mission of honoring Lance Corporal George V. Apostol with extremely short notice. This is a testament to your professionalism, pride, service, and dedication to helping families in need. Your service has eased one of the hardest days of my life and your love brought light into one of the darkest days I have yet to endure.
I am, Lance Corporal George V. Apostol eldest son of three boys, Jonathan M. Apostol. Due to the short time frame, we had to work with and my father’s recent spring-cleaning his DD-214 was not located until one day before the funeral service. As a young child whenever there was a military funeral depicted in television or the movies my dad, a proud Marine, would tell me one day that would be done for him. The thought of seeing my father laid to rest with out his military recognition was a world stopper for me. My heart broke the day I learned we had run out of time for military honors, a right he earned.
To our surprise on May 30, 2009, the parking lot was filled motorcycles, the sky with waving flags, and the air was thick with pride. My broken heart mended in a matter of seconds and my family felt the love that day. The services performed was above and beyond the call of duty, executed with the greatest honor, conducted with the up most professionalism, which stands as a testament to this nation’s great service men and women.
Later that evening I learned of another wonderful heart warming event. _All_ of the riders that day took the time to shake the hand of a little boy. One of the riders placed a PGR button on this little boy’s chest and saluted him. He wore that button with pride all that day and he relayed the story of his button to anyone that would lend him an audience. That little boy’s name is Hayden J. Apostol, my son, and Lance Corporal George V. Apostol oldest grandson.
Know that a few hours of your Saturday on May 30, 2009 meant the world to Lance Corporal George V. Apostol’s Widow, three sons, his daughter’s in-law, and grandchildren. Thank you all for your service to our nation and to my father. The work you all do is selfless and a testimony of the good in the world.
With Respect,
Jonathan M. Apostol
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The PGR member that gave Hayden the button is USMC Veteran, Bob Dalton. You will see pictures of this in the slide show.. Thank you Bob for your kindness to Hayden. It will not be forgotten by him or his family, I am sure.
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- Pleasanton Memorial Day 2009
- Service for US Army Spc Jake Velloza - American Hero
Army Spc. Jake R. Velloza
22, of Inverness, Calif.; assigned to the 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas; died May 2 in Mosul, Iraq, after being shot by enemy forces.
(permission granted from family to post)
- Spike's speach
The City of Oakley presented a proclamation to Spike at the City hall on May 12th. Here is Spike talking about the Patriot Guard Riders.
- Spike's Proclamation
- Mjr Sean P Smith USMC - We Thank you
- Ssgt Andrew Haskins USAF Homecoming
- USMC Homecoming
Community gathers to honor a US Marine ( not identified per request)
- Welcome Home Spike Pt 3
- Welcome Home Spike Pt 2
- Welcome Home Spike Pt 1
- Welcome Home Lcpl Kevin Fonseca, USMC
- Ride to Bryan's memorial service
- Danville Homecoming celebration for four US Marines
- Sgt Nicholas Parks Homecoming
- Lcpl Douglas Huggard
- Spc Robert Maggio Homecoming
- Jay Wilkerson's Welcome Home Celebration
- SGT. Joe Quirarte,US Army, Airport Welcome Back Celebration
SGT. Joe Quirarte (U.S. Army) is returning to the Bay Area (his second
overseas deployment) after a 13 month deployment to Iraq. Mom is Debbie Smyser, Co-Founder - Pacifica Military Moms
- Cpl Alan Wiggins Homecoming
- Special PGR Photos
- Spc Joel Catalano, US Army Homecoming
- Cpt Tom Daggett USMC
Capt Tom is returning home from a tour in Iraq where he flew the armed Marine Corps Cobra helicopter.
America thanks you Capt Daggett for your service to our country. WELCOME HOME!!
- Christopher De Pretis's Homecoming
- Spc Curren Dresser Homecoming
- CPL Michael Ekland
- Welcome Home Lcpl Tyler Schmidt
- Marc De Pretis MCRD
Marine Corps Graduation Ceremony, MCRD San Diego November 5th 2008
- CPL Matthew Yarbrough, USMC
- Robert Baker Hmecoming
- Sgt Jennifer Gomez, US Army, Homecoming
- LCpl Arron McCrea Homecoming
- Homecoming for Lcpl. Jesse Pearson USMC
- US Marines Woodruff Homecoming
- Adam Vanderhoofven, Welcome Home
- Mom's Birthday Surprise
Trip to Ohio to surprise my Mom on her 75th birthday.
- Garrett's Homecoming, Saturday, December 22nd 2007
- Shawn and Desi's Wedding
- Alan's USMC Graduation
MCRD San Diego CA Sept 30th 2005
Photos and video of Alan Wiggins Graduation ceremony
Semper Fidelis; Always Faithful. The Few. The Proud. The Marines.
- 110 Marines
- Azi and Jack
Alicia and Josh brought Jackson to Pleasanton today. Papa Al got to hold him for the first time. I had to call Azi so she could come see this new little miracle in person. It was so touching to see my husband and my friend Azi holding our baby Jack.
- Brynn's 1st Birthday
Happy First Birthday Brynn!!
- Christmas 2010
My grandsons, Austin, Collin, and Jack. Alicia and Alan too. Christmas at the Haber House in Orinda, CA. 2010
- Collin's football game September 18 2010
Collin is in the Pleasanton Junior Football League.Collin's position is Cornerback, number 63. He is playing for the Green Bay Packers this year and this is a game they played against the Cardinals. A win for the Packers. Final score Packers 30 Cardinals 19.
- floral
- hundreds of pictures of Jack
These pictures were taken on Memorial day weekend 2010.
As Jack, Collin and Austin's grandma, I could not delete a single one. Jack was 8 weeks old at the time and has already changed so much.
I will be going back up to see him soon, so there will be new pics to show you then.
- Introducing Riley Nichole Shaw
Riley Nichole Shaw
Born April 14th 2012, Columbus Ohio
Parents: Travis and Kayla
Grandparents: Kevin and Barbie Shaw
- Jack at the football game
Alicia and Josh brought Jack to watch his big brother play football. Grandma just had to take a couple hundred pictures so I could show him off here.
- Jack Haber 7-25-10
This is Jack at almost 4 months old. He is holding his head up strong, cooing, giggles a bit and smiles a lot. Of course each time I snapped a shot of him he focused on the camera and forgot to smile. I did capture a few though, most during bath time. He loves his bath but each time he has to get dried off and jammies on he cries his heart out. Alicia and Josh says it happens every night. Go figure.
- Jack's first days at home
After 8 days, Jack was released from the hospital to go home. He is doing very well and growing a little bit each day.
- Jackson Robert Haber - First Days
Baby Jackson Robert Haber. Born March 31st 2010 at 8:23pm, 3lbs 13oz.
Mom - Alicia Haber--. Dad - Josh Haber.Big Brothers, Austin and Collin.
The world just became a tiny bit better,
- Landon's First Birthday
Parents,Gordon and Jennifer , along with family and friends, celebrate with Landon, his very first birthday,
- My kids
This is my daughter, Alicia, and her three sons, Austin, Collin and the baby is Jack. We went to Sacramento to take the photos in the rose garden.
- New StarLily Photos
My granddaughter, Starlily,
- Oakland A's ball game 2009
- Ralph & Melody's Vow Renewal Celebration
After 20 years of wedded bliss, Ralph and Melody exchange vows again, promising to love each other for the rest of their lives.
- Rick and Denise Kompara's Wedding Ceremony
Rick and Denise have found true love and so officially "tied the knot" on Saturday, September 25th. Denise was a beautiful bride and Rick was handsome in his tux.
The ceremony was truly a celebration of their love for one another.
We all wish them much happiness in the years to come.
- Sean Diamond - combined
SSGT Sean Diamond Memorial Plaque Dedication and New Base Tribute combined into one slide show.
- The Bride
Alicia on her Wedding day
- The Bride and Groom
Josh and Alicia Haber
- The Dance
Ralph and Melody's dance.
- The Wedding Arbor
