Mary Castillo:
CLASS OF 1981
Santa Fe High SchoolClass of 1981
Santa fe springs, CA
University of PhoenixClass of 1999
Tulsa, OK
Oxnard CollegeClass of 1989
Oxnard, CA
Mary's Story
Life
I didn't think I would be typing my bio so soon, but will be as concise as possible. Bear with me (Reader's Digest version)....After high school, I joined the Marine Corps and became a jet mechanic (Harriers - environmental egress, which included the ejection seat, canopy and oxygen/pressurization systems). That was an experience I will treasure forever. While stationed at MCAS Yuma, AZ, I married a wonderful Marine (Kevin Bonner) and had two beautiful children. We subsequently divorced years later while I was working for DOD in SD. Married another Marine (Glen Castillo) and had beautiful boy/girl twins. I recently adopted my already adopted sister from the Philippines (long story). Hence, I now have five children ranging in age from 21 to 13. In addition to being Super Mom, I have worked in the military/U.S. Government/hotel/restaurant industry and retail. I somehow found the time to complete two dreams; college education and travel Europe. I earned (blood, sweat and tears) a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management - while raising children AND working! I currently substitutue teach Junior High School on a full-time basis. I have traveled Europe from London to Roma, Italia and several locales in between. I have yet and would desperately like to visit the pyramids of Egypt and the Parthenon in Greece. My favorite place thus far has been Roma, Italia. I can't wait to go back. My interests include volunteering for military veteran organizations (American Legion, Marine Corps League, Women Marine Association) and Boy Scouts (Scout Leader), traveling, physical fitness, reading, and retaining life-long friendships. It was great to see many of you and reflect on fond memories at Santa Fe's 10th & 20th year reunions. I can't wait to see you again at our next reunion. In closing, I pray many of you receive(d) the love you deserve and success from your hard work in life. I look forward to hearing from you soon. God Bless.
P.S. Update...spouse was recently tran...Expand for more
sferred to West Palm Beach, FL area and we are following suit once house sells...whenever that will be. Currently living in the Chicago, IL area. Burrrr. Cold.
Military
Gosh, my military bio? United States Marine Corps! What else can I say? I enlisted in the Corps after my first semester of college at the tender age of 18. I celebrated my 19th birthday in boot camp. Ooh Rah! I graduated from Recruit Training in Parris Island, SC in March of 1982. From there, I studied Aviation Structural Mechanics in NAS Millington, TN just north of Memphis. From Memphis, I trained on Harriers in MCAS Cherry Point, NC. My final duty station was VMA 513 (Flying Nightmares), Seat Shop MCAS Yuma, AZ and there completed my enlistment in January 1986. My military experience consisted of working on the AV8A & C Harrier Environmental Egress Systems. That included the ejection seat, canopy and the air conditioning/pressurization systems. I also met the best men/women in the world. I have continued to maintain and treasure those life-long relationships. There is no bond or respect than that experienced between Marines. I am often asked if I have regrets not staying in and/or retiring. I have honestly answered a resounding "no." I married a Marine and had beautiful Marine babies. My loyalty could not be watered down between two precious gems. I had to chose one over the other and I chose my children. Don't get me wrong, there are people who can handily balance both the EGA family and their biological family, but this Mother couldn't. I reflect and often remember fond memories and yearn for days gone by. I can only look forward to retaining the relationships I have and to hear from the old salts who wondered the squadron and flight line with me. My heart pours out for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and for brothers and sisters still in harms way. I thank many of you for the wonderful memories. I am honored that our paths have crossed and hope they cross again soon. God Bless
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