Kent Valley
Why: I chose the United States Marine Corps because it looked the most challenging at the time. “The Few, The Proud, The Marines.” I was 22 years old, had no idea there would be a war, and I would serve in combat in Vietnam.
Rank: Received my commission after graduation from The University of Idaho, which I attended on a Division I football scholarship. Military service was required for all except those who could get medical deferments.
Current Company: Majestic Realty Co., Nationwide Developer of Master Planned Industrial Parks.
Role: Ex-Vice President, Board of Directors.
Experience: My first duty station was Hawaii, for 2+ years before shipping out to Vietnam. Hawaii to Vietnam was an interesting change. I went from this is great to how did I get here? Now, I live with my wife, Ginni, in Newport Beach.
What did you learn? The USMC gave me the proud distinction of becoming an “Infantry Platoon Commander.” 44 young men or teenagers that become your responsibility to train and prepare for combat. Never believing someday they would get tested under fire. We trained for nearly 2 years and became a unit ready to deploy to any part of the Globe where we were asked to protect the interest of the United States of America. We landed in Vietnam May 7, 1965. Was the Platoon Commander of 3rd Platoon Bravo Company 1st Battalion 4th Marine Regiment, 1st. Marine Division. Engaged against the Viet Cong in operations South of the DMZ. Won Bronze Star with combat “V” for Valor in combat as well as other Campaign and Unit Citations. My men served proudly. Many were wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Honorably discharged as captain from active duty in 1967.
What was the biggest lesson you learned about discipline? The word discipline defines those who serve in the USMC. That translates into the business world to keep a clear path and when things get tough pull yourself up by the bootstraps and keep going. “OORAH”
