UPDATE: In a historic first, a father and son duo will be celebrated as the latest Humboldt Heroes during a special ceremony this Friday, December 15, 2023, at 12:00 PM in Eureka, California. Roy Cantu and his father, Clemente Cantu, both dedicated military veterans, will receive this honor for their remarkable service in the Army and Navy.
Clemente Cantu, who hails from Casper, Wyoming, enlisted in the Army in 1948, serving in Italy as part of the occupational forces following World War II. Notably, he played the trumpet in an infantry and band unit during his service. The father of Roy Cantu, Clemente returned to the United States in 1952 after marrying his wife, Maria, in Trieste, Italy. The family eventually settled in Humboldt County in 1973, where he continued his military career with the National Guard, retiring in 1989 after an impressive 41 years of service.
Roy Cantu, born in Italy in October 1950, followed in his father’s footsteps by enlisting in the Navy on Veterans’ Day, November 11, 1968. He served aboard three nuclear ballistic missile submarines, completing 13 patrols in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. After advancing to chief petty officer, Roy retired in 1990 after 21 years of dedicated service.
Both Cantu men have made significant contributions to their community. Clemente is a former member of the Red Bluff Elks Lodge #1250 and served as Post Commander for the Eureka VFW Post 1872. Meanwhile, Roy has built a life in Eureka, where he enjoyed a successful career as a photographer and web designer after his military service.
This heartfelt ceremony at the Eureka Inn promises to be a poignant affair, honoring not just the Cantu family’s military legacy, but also the sacrifices made by countless veterans.
As the Humboldt Heroes program continues to shine a spotlight on local veterans, community members are encouraged to attend this inspiring event. Those interested in nominating a veteran for future recognition or supporting the program can contact State Farm insurance agent Scott Hammond at 707-444-2504.
Don’t miss this opportunity to honor two remarkable heroes who exemplify service, dedication, and familial bonds. Share this story to celebrate Roy and Clemente Cantu’s extraordinary legacy and the enduring spirit of our veterans.
