Veterans

Of Jamul Indian Village

The Jamul Indian Village of California has the distinction of having the most Veterans per capita among its past and present Tribal Members of any other Tribe in the United States of America, a great source of pride for us as a sovereign people.

We have honored the Veterans from our community here, where we list each member and the details of their service.

American Indians in the U.S. Military

A Legacy of Honor

Many Americans don’t know that American Indians have made major contributions to our nation’s Armed Forces for decades. In fact, American Indians now serve in our country’s Armed Forces in greater numbers per capita than any other ethnic group and have served with distinction in every major conflict over the last 200 years.

“The warrior, for us, is one who sacrifices himself for the good of others. His task is to take care of the elderly, the defenseless, those who can not provide for themselves, and above all, the children, the future of humanity.” – Sitting Bull

Kenny Meza

Jamul Indian Village Tribal Elder

When I think about our people’s service to this country as members of the armed forces, my thoughts are complex and layered. There are so many memories of my uncles and family friends who served before me in World War II and Korea.

Lee Acebedo

Jamul Indian Village Tribal Elder

Growing up in San Diego, I always idolized what Tom Brokaw called “The Greatest Generation.” My father and uncle both served in World War II, and I was fascinated with the history of it all. I looked up to them both, and all those who served. When Vietnam came around, I dropped out of college and joined the army.

The Mesa Family

The Mesa children, circa early 1920’s: Franspano, Valentine, John, Felix, and Linda. Felix is the father of Gerald, James, and Dennis Mesa, and Valentine is the father of James and Bill Mesa—all of whom served in the Armed Forces and are memorialized on this page.