Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones (R-San Diego) has named Paula Jansen and Tony Teravainen the Senate District 40 “Veterans of the Year.”
“Paula Jansen and Tony Teravainen exemplify the spirit of service, both in and out of uniform,” said Leader Jones. “After their honorable service in the U.S. Navy, they channeled their dedication into community service, uplifting fellow veterans, and fostering positive change. Their commitment to protecting our freedoms and their efforts to strengthen our communities embody the values the Veteran of the Year Award seeks to honor.”
Paula Jansen of Lakeside
Served as Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy and is now the Junior Vice Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of California. Jansen is a dedicated advocate for veterans and a champion of military causes across the state. She provides essential support to veterans, leads impactful projects like Paws for Purple Hearts and Wreaths Across America, and organizes ceremonies honoring POW/MIA heroes. As the leader of the Miss Military Star pageant program, Jansen empowers young women to honor veterans and military causes through volunteerism, fundraising, and education. From brightening VA hospitals during the holidays to supporting local VFWs, Jansen's work embodies service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to those who have served.
Tony Teravainen of Scripps Ranch
Served as Petty Officer First Class in the U.S. Navy and is now a co-founder of Support The Enlisted Project (STEP). Teravainen has dedicated his life to supporting military families. Under his leadership, STEP has provided immediate financial relief and long-term financial counseling to over 8,500 military families, helping them achieve stability and wellness. Teravainen's efforts have earned prestigious accolades, including the Spirit of Hope Award from the Secretary of Defense. Guided by his core values—Do the Right Thing, Honor Patriotism & Service to Country, Build Relationships, Respect Others, and Deliver Results with Excellence—Teravainen continues to make a profound impact on the military community.
Leader Jones also recognized 16 “Honored Veterans of Senate District 40”:
Barry Bernstein, US Army, University City
Alexander Buggy, U.S. Navy, Carmel Valley
Edward Michael Clancy, US Army, Lakeside
Glen Cook, US Navy, Santee
John Drdek, US Navy, Scripps Ranch
Ed Embly, US Marine Corps, Escondido
Mike Gardiner, US Navy, San Marcos
Cory Gautereaux, US Army, Pine Valley
Gary Harrison, US Marine Corps, Scripps Ranch
Bennadine Johnson, US Marine Corps, Carmel Mountain Ranch
Thomas Kilpela, US Army, El Cajon
Glenn Kunz, US Army, Bonsall
Al Lejarde, US Marine Corps, Escondido
Jhon Londono, US Army, El Cajon
DuVal Warner, US Marine Corps, Mira Mesa
Captain E. Royce Williams, US Navy, Escondido
“We are fortunate to have many exceptional veterans in Senate District 40 who continue to make a difference long after their military service,” added Leader Jones. “Our ‘Honored Veterans of Senate District 40’ remind us of the ongoing extraordinary contributions of those who have bravely served our nation. We owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to these individuals who remain steadfast in supporting their fellow veterans and enriching our communities.”