UPDATE: A historic recognition is set for December 29, 2023, as the monthly Humboldt Heroes ceremony will honor a remarkable father-son duo, Roy Cantu and his father, Clemente Cantu, for their dedicated service in the Army and Navy. This first-of-its-kind celebration takes place at noon inside the lobby of the Eureka Inn, located at 518 Seventh Street, Eureka.
The story of the Cantus is one of resilience and dedication. Clemente Cantu, born in February 1929 in Casper, Wyoming, enlisted in the Army in 1948, serving valiantly in Italy as part of the occupational forces. With a trumpet in hand, he contributed to his infantry and band unit. After marrying his wife, Maria, in 1949, the family returned to the U.S. in 1952, where Clemente continued his military career, ultimately retiring from the National Guard in 1989 after an impressive 41 years of service.
His son, Roy Cantu, followed in his father’s footsteps, enlisting in the Navy on Veterans’ Day, November 11, 1968. Serving aboard three nuclear ballistic missile submarines, Roy completed 13 patrols across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans as a sonar/electronics technician. He advanced his career as a quality assurance supervisor/auditor in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, before retiring as a chief petty officer in 1990 after 21 years of dedicated service.
The ceremony not only honors their individual achievements but also highlights the bond between them as they both served their country. Their legacy continues to inspire many in the Humboldt County community, where they have resided since 1973.
Clemente, a well-respected member of various community organizations, including the Red Bluff Elks Lodge and the Eureka VFW Post 1872, expressed his gratitude for the warm small-town atmosphere of Humboldt County. Meanwhile, Roy, who has enjoyed a fulfilling career in photography and web design after his military service, emphasizes the joy of living close to family and friends.
This special event is a call to the community to come together and celebrate the sacrifices made by these two heroes. If you want to nominate a local veteran for future recognition or support the program, reach out to State Farm agent Scott Hammond at 707-444-2504.
Join us in honoring the Cantu family’s extraordinary contributions to our nation’s defense and the profound impact they have made in our local community. Don’t miss this opportunity to pay tribute to true heroes this Friday!
