Local Hero Receives National Recognition

Before his immediate and extended Mountain View family, Juan Aranda accepted an Air Force Medal 57 years after one very brave act.

"'This is Congresswoman Anna Eshoo and the U.S. Air Force has decided to give you a commendation medal,'" Aranda shared about the moment he learned of the recognition. "'How do you feel?' Eshoo asked. I said, 'Flabbergasted!'"

Eshoo, Brigadier General Randall Ball of the California Air National Guard and Lt. Col. Daniel Lapastole of the 129th Rescue Wing honored Aranda on Monday, July 15th for his heroism when he risked his life—and career in the Air Force—to save four people during a hurricane in 1956.

"We are thrilled for him," Eshoo said. "For 57 years his country didn't step up, but he finally got what he earned. He's very humble."

From inside a hangar in Moffett Field, the home of the 129th—the unit recently rescued its 1,003 person—the award held even more meaning.

"I don't get to give awards for heroism very often," said Ball, who also gave Aranda a coin, a symbolic gesture in the defense community. "He put his career and safety at risk. He'll tell you he's not a hero, but he is."

Ask anyone at the ceremony and they will confirm that Aranda's service hasn't been limited to his military career. He's just as busy in his community.

Aranda, who moved to Mountain View in 1985, served on the Mountain View School District. He volunteers as a translator at Rotacare, the free health clinic at El Camino Hospital; as a dance instructor; as a chaperon during teen nights with the city; and with the Community Action Team.

"He's a person who's defined by his service to the community," Santa Clara County Supervisor Joseph Simitian said. Simitian knows Aranda from when Aranda served on the local school board. "He's old school in that kind of way. I wish we had more people like him."

Lauren Merriman, recreation supervisor at City of Mountain View, shared an example of Aranda's generosity. She said that last December Aranda organized a Christmas event for at-risk teen girls from the Bill Wilson Center. He got donations, put up a tree for them, "and made them feel special," she said.

"He's beyond generous with is time, always," she said. Her colleague Kristine Pardini added that if he's not volunteering with the city, it's with another community group.

But like many noted, even during this event meant to honor him, Aranda shared his recognition with others.

"I accept this medal on behalf of those who risk their lives time and time again," he said."