11/13/2025
Meet our Veteran of the Month for November: Mario M.
When the Korean War ended in 1953, Mario, as a college graduate, enlisted in the Air Force (1954-1956). The timing was perfect and his rationale was simple: he wanted to fly.
Mario’s desire to fly began to materialize when he was in the bombardier navigator cadet program. Flight training continued in the Coast Guard Auxiliary in San Diego where he served for ten years. Mario emphasizes that Southern California was protected by water from the Mexican border to Oceanside and by air over San Pedro. During this period of time, Mario also excelled as a Corpsman Instructor.
Mario is proud of his many affiliations. He was a member of the Civil Air Patrol, a volunteer, non-profit organization with an aviation-minded membership. As for memorable events: how about when they were returning from patrol with an aircraft carrier behind them and a surfaced submarine in front of them! Mario enlisted in the Air Force to fly and, indeed, can look back on that accomplishment. He’s alive today because he successfully piloted an emergency landing during a severe thunderstorm on the East Coast.
Mario’s eyes shine with pride as he talks about his son, Michael, who graduated from the Air Force Academy and was a Missile Operator. In fact, Michael receiving his lieutenant bars may have been Mario’s proudest moment. Michael resides in Huntington Beach and might be a guest speaker at one of our Veterans’ meetings.
Mario M., Airman 2nd class, thank you for your service.
