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ALSO
IN THIS ISSUE Base Security US Navy Needs Civilian Aircraft Mechanics Getting High Patriotic Images Salute To Veterans An Ear to the Past Chancellor's Column Development News Factoids Newsmakers Accomplishments by faculty and staff… |
Salute to Veterans Silver
Stars Through the Korean War, Vietnam, World War II campaigns in the Pacific and elsewhere, three highly decorated and distinguished presenters brought decades of amazing and inspiring experiences to assembled guests at Miramar College on Nov. 9, 2001. The heartwarming and patriotic community event recognized Norris Charles, Miramar College 2001 Veteran of the Year, as well as other faculty and staff who currently work at the college and celebrated veterans in neighboring communities. James Palmer, Miramar College public safety dean, kicked off the formal program, individually saluting every Miramar College veteran in attendance. Palmer encouraged all in attendance to personally “thank” every veteran they encounter throughout their life. Palmer’s own military record is impressive. During Palmer’s tenure with the U.S. Army, his actions during the Dominican Republic crisis and Vietnam conflict earned him the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. Norris Charles, a math professor for 26 years, was voted 2001 Veteran of the Year from among the 34 faculty and staff veterans who work at Miramar College. Norris’ name was forwarded as the college’s entry in the San Diego Veterans Museum and Memorial campaign for San Diego County Veteran of the Year. Charles journeyed down memory lane, sharing his Vietnam POW experiences and how he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross medal and the Purple Heart during his 20 years of service in the U.S. Navy. Mira Mesa resident Casiano Santos, Post Commander of the American Legion, Leyte Post 625, took attendees into history with his presentation about the Philippine campaigns and defenses of World War II. Santos, a survivor of the infamous Bataan Death March, recounted the harshness of life during the Japanese occupation. Long-time Scripps Ranch resident and community volunteer Col. Bob Dingeman, resplendant in his uniform adorned with countless medals and high honors, paid tribute to veterans with comments and personal reflections from his stellar career. During tours of duty in the Philippines, Korea, Europe and Vietnam, Dingeman accumulated 46 major awards, including four Presidential Citations, a Purple Heart, seven Bronze Stars and a Silver Star. Dingeman, a West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, was a history and political science professor at Miramar College for many years following his military service. Dingeman summed up the evening of celebration stating, “War is hell and it is never pleasant…However, if you’ve been in combat, you know the brotherhood of combat… a sense of looking out for each other.” |