UPDATE: A historic moment is set to unfold in Eureka, California, as father-and-son duo Roy Cantu and Clemente Cantu will be honored this Friday for their distinguished service in the Army and Navy. This is the first time in the monthly Humboldt Heroes ceremonies that a father and son will receive such recognition together, highlighting their exceptional contributions to the military.
The ceremony will take place at 12 PM on December 1, 2023, inside the lobby of the Eureka Inn, located at 518 Seventh Street, Eureka. Local veterans and community members are encouraged to attend this momentous occasion.
Clemente Cantu, also known as Clem, was born in February 1929 in Casper, Wyoming. He enlisted in the Army in 1948, serving in Italy as part of the occupational forces after World War II, where he played the trumpet in an infantry and band unit. Following his honorable discharge in 1952, he returned to the U.S. with his wife, Maria, and son, Roy. The family moved to Humboldt County in 1973, where Clem continued his military legacy by managing the National Guard and retiring in 1989 after a remarkable 41 years of service.
Clem’s dedication to his community is evident through his involvement with organizations like the Red Bluff Elks Lodge #1250 and the Eureka VFW Post 1872, where he served as Post Commander. His passion for small-town living has kept him rooted in Humboldt County.
Roy Cantu, born in October 1950 in Italy, followed in his father’s footsteps by enlisting in the Navy on Veterans’ Day (November 11) in 1968. He served aboard three nuclear ballistic missile submarines, completing 13 patrols across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans as a sonar/electronics technician. After advancing to master training specialist, he trained future submariners at the Fleet Submarine Warfare Center in San Diego, retiring as a chief petty officer in 1990 after 21 years of service.
Since moving to Eureka in 1994, Roy has maintained a deep connection with his family and friends while pursuing careers in photography and web design until his retirement in 2012.
The Humboldt community is invited to celebrate this remarkable legacy of service and sacrifice. The Humboldt Heroes program typically honors local veterans on the last Friday of each month. If you wish to nominate a local veteran for recognition or support the program, contact State Farm insurance agent Scott Hammond at 707-444-2504.
Don’t miss this opportunity to honor two extraordinary heroes who exemplify dedication and valor. Join the celebration and share this news to inspire others in the community!
