As your Assemblymember, I am honored to launch our district’s first annual Veterans of the Year recognition. This program is dedicated to celebrating the courage, sacrifice, and service of our veterans, all of whom are outstanding individuals from Assembly District 76. Together, we will honor our veterans' commitments that have extended beyond their military service and into our community. I invite you to submit nominations so we can shine a spotlight on these heroes and honor the difference they continue to make in our lives.
Honorees and their families will be invited to a private reception with the Assemblymember.
Deadline to Submit Nominations: Nominations will re-open in 2026. Self-nominations are welcome.
Past Honorees
2025
Colonel Greg Rassatt
United States Army, 1981-2006
Colonel Greg Rassatt served twenty-five years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from 1981 to 2006, holding command and leadership positions that took him around the world, including during the Gulf War and peacekeeping operations in Bosnia, as well as assignments at West Point, the Pentagon, and overseas posts in Europe. After retiring, he and his wife Heidi made San Marcos their home and have become pillars of community service. Greg has organized the San Marcos Veterans Day Ceremony for more than fifteen years and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and Wreaths Across America. His steady leadership and compassion continue to strengthen the community he so proudly serves.
First Lt. Antonia “Toni” Sterbenz
United States Army, 1991-1994
First Lt. Antonia Sterbenz served in the U.S. Army from 1991 to 1994, where she led engineering teams with skill and compassion, including during the response to Hurricane Andrew, conducting critical damage assessments and emergency repairs that helped devastated communities recover and rebuild. She earned distinction for her calm leadership under pressure and her ability to restore stability when it was needed most. Today, she continues her service as a Marriage and Family Life Counselor at Camp Pendleton, guiding Marines and their families through deployment, stress, and transition. Her ongoing work supports the emotional readiness and resilience of those who serve our nation.
Sergeant Jason Beyer
United States Marine Corps, 1999-2005
Sergeant Jason Beyer served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1999 to 2005, where he embodied the Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment—principles he continues to live by in every aspect of his personal and professional life. He now dedicates his career to empowering veterans at Cal State San Marcos, helping them navigate education benefits, employment opportunities, and the transition to civilian life. He founded the Veterans Lore program and led the Veterans Oral History Project to preserve the stories of service members for the Library of Congress. Jason’s deep community involvement includes work with the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Columbus, Scouting, and local park projects. His life is defined by service, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to others.
Captain Mike Plue
United States Marine Corps, 1987-1991
Captain Mike Plue served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1987 to 1991, where he developed the leadership, discipline, and sense of duty that continue to guide his life and inspire his service to others long after leaving active duty. He has dedicated himself to helping veterans navigate career transitions, build professional confidence, and pursue meaningful work through mentorship and guidance. For more than eight years he has volunteered with the Veteran Career Transition Assistance Program, coaching and mentoring veterans and military spouses preparing for the next chapter of their lives. Mike also supports organizations including the Travis Manion Foundation, The Mission Continues, and the Semper Fi Fund. His generosity and dedication help veterans and young professionals alike build confidence and find purpose beyond the uniform.
Captain Willie Chao, DDS
United States Navy, 1996-2020
Captain Willie Chao served as a Naval Dental Officer for twenty-four years, providing care to service members and families across the globe. Following his distinguished service, he continues to serve as a pediatric dentist with San Ysidro Health, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality care. Dr. Chao also mentors young dental professionals and participates in global medical missions to improve oral health in underserved regions. His life’s work embodies compassion, excellence, and a global vision of service. Captain Chao’s unwavering dedication to public health and humanitarian service continues to inspire others in both the military and medical communities, reflecting his lifelong belief that caring for others is the highest form of leadership.
Lt. Commander Kim McNealy
United States Navy, 1987-1999
Lt. Commander Kim McNealy served eight years in the U.S. Navy as a Nuclear Submarine Officer, following his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy, where he studied from 1987 to 1991. His military service from 1991 to 1999 demanded precision, discipline, and leadership in one of the most complex operational environments. After his service, he built a successful career in FinTech and EdTech while remaining devoted to mentoring veterans and advancing educational access. As Board Chair of Adjoin, he helps empower veterans and individuals with disabilities to live independently and thrive. His leadership remains steady, thoughtful, and deeply centered on strengthening opportunity and community.
