Central OC Times

In Orange County, Assemblymember Diane Dixon has recognized three veterans from Assembly District 72 in honor of Veteran's Day. The individuals honored for their service and contributions to the community are First Lieutenant Chase Wickersham, Lieutenant Colonel Don Nguyen, and Captain Gary Barnhill.

Assemblymember Dixon expressed her gratitude by stating, "I am honored to recognize three great veterans from Assembly District 72. We are very blessed to have so many selfless service members in Orange County. Thank you for your service, gentlemen."

First Lieutenant Chase Wickersham of Corona Del Mar served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1970-1971. He has been actively involved in supporting fellow veterans through various roles, including his work with U.S. Vets in Los Angeles and as a founding member of several veteran-focused organizations in Orange County.

Lieutenant Colonel Don Nguyen of Huntington Beach is a disabled combat veteran who served for 27 years in the United States Air Force. A refugee immigrant from the Vietnam War, he participated in Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield during the Persian Gulf War and was deployed twice to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom before retiring in 2014. He has volunteered extensively with local emergency preparedness programs.

Captain Gary Barnhill of Newport Beach is a retired Air Force fighter pilot who flew missions during Rolling Thunder in Vietnam. After his military career, he worked with the CIA and Trans World Airlines and co-founded a B-747 pilot leasing firm. He contributes to the Freedom Committee of Orange County by sharing veterans' stories with students.

These honorees will be celebrated at a private ceremony held by Assemblymember Dixon at her District Office along with their families.