Chester Louis Jantz – better known as “Uncle” never talked about his military career or for that matter anything personal. He is not one to boost about his academic or career accomplishments, political convictions or religious beliefs – he just lived his life based on these attributes. When I learned he was invited to participate in the April 2015 Honor Flight, I knew he would have to tell us more about this time in his life. Unbeknownst to me – or did I just not pay attention – he has written his “memories of his military service”.

He quotes December 7, 1941 as the day that lives in infamy. As a young man from Winton California, who attended Cal Poly to study radio technology and operations within the Works Progress Administration (WPA). This training provided him with many opportunities in which he utilized to gain a position in the U.S Navy. He traveled the world extensively once in the Navy, encountered many of history’s great men of WWII such as General Douglas MacArthur, and he even heard a microphone for President Franklin D, Roosevelt at a press conference.

Uncle was a man of integrity, honor and a very good husband to my Aunt Mary, and a compassionate father to his two sons. He was the cool uncle – after all he lived in San Diego and visiting him wasn’t so bad.

Uncle Chester, along with the other 68 veterans was greeted with many cheers and support from many.

B-K Lighting has been dedicated to honoring our veterans and remembering the heroes of 9/11 each year at our 9/11 Memorial Service. We appreciate all those that have served and fought for our freedom. We recognize freedom isn't free. So on behalf of B-K Lighting, thank you to all those that have served!

For more information about the Central Valley Honor Flight, please visit: http://www.cvhonorflight.org/

If you would like to read more about Uncle Chester's memories, click here. 

Enjoy this video that shows Uncle Chester's time with the Central Valley Honor Flight.