Salute to Veterans: Dos Palos vet looks upon service with pride

Korean War-era veteran Alfred Gamboni, 86, of Dos Palos takes great pride in his community and those who’ve served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

For more than two decades, Gamboni has played an active role in the Dos Palos American Legion, serving as commander and treasurer for many years. His efforts are being recognized at this year’s Merced County Veterans Day Parade, where he’s serving as a grand marshal.

“I feel it’s quite an honor,” said Gamboni.

Born in King City, Gamboni moved to Dos Palos with his family in 1937. He was drafted in the Army in 1950 and served until 1952. During his time in the Army, Gamboni served with the 4th Infantry Division in Germany. Although Gamboni did not see combat, he still remembers the sadness he felt as some of his friends in the service were injured, while others did not return home.

During his time in the military, Gamboni attended radio school. He recalled how, during his time stationed in Germany, he could hear Russian forces and tanks moving near the border with East Germany. “At that time, things didn’t look too good with Russia,” he recalled.

After his time in the Army ended, Gamboni returned to Dos Palos to help his father with the family farm, which is still in business today. The farm, which is now managed by Gamboni’s son, grows a variety of crops, such as tomatoes, alfalfa, cotton and corn for tortillas.

Although Gamboni’s time in the military was short, he has remained active the American Legion for more than 20 years. The American Legion in Dos Palos played an active role in establishing the Dos Palos Veterans Memorial at Bernhard Marks Elementary School. The memorial, which is about 10 feet high and 27 feet long, contains the names of some 1,200 Dos Palos veterans, living and dead, from wars as far back as the Civil War.

Gamboni smiled when recounting stories about his time in the Army, and said he has a great appreciation for the sacrifices made by all veterans, both young and old. “This country wouldn’t be what it is without the young men who lost their lives,” he said.

Gamboni and his wife, Elsie, have been married for 58 years. They have three children, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

This story was originally published November 10, 2014 at 4:00 PM with the headline "Salute to Veterans: Dos Palos vet looks upon service with pride."