“The World Famous Blue Sharks” (1943-1993) PATRON SIX

He attended DeAnza College and Santa Clara University in California and earned a degree in mathematics. He later received a teaching credential. In 1972, after Aviation Officer Candidate School, he was commissioned an ensign. In 1973, he was designated a Navy flight officer. He served as a tactical coordinator instructor at Moffett Field, CA, and then from 1980-1983 he was stationed in Scotland in a personal exchange program with the Royal Air Force. He served on the staff of Patrol Wing 10 at Moffett Field from 1983-1984, then joined VP-46. In 1987, he became executive officer of VP-40, a squadron of P-3s based at Moffett Field. He led his squadron on deployment to Japan and Okinawa. He assumed command of the squadron from 1988 to 1989. After completing his tour, he earned a master’s degree in foreign affairs and strategic planning at the Naval War College. He spent the next three years as an action officer on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, serving in the strategic planning and policy department of the Joint Staff. He was promoted to the rank of captain in 1993. He also served as the chief of staff of Patrol Wings Pacific. During his military career, Getzfred received numerous awards and commendations for achievement, good conduct and meritorious service. He was a great teacher and leader. He was also a wonderful husband, father, brother, son and naval officer. Survivors include his wife, Patricia, and two daughters, Larissa and Kristina. We will not forget him.

Home of Record: Elgin, Neb.
Commissioned: Officer Candidate School, December 15, 1972
Rank: Captain
Date of Rank: October 1, 1993
Designator: Naval Flight Officer
Age: 57

Duty Stations:
Patrol Squadron 46 — 01/85 - 05/87

Patrol Squadron 6 — 01/74 - 06/77

Patrol Squadron 31 — 12/77 - 06/80

Personnel Exchange Program, England — 06/80 - 01/83

Commander Patrol Wing 10 — 01/83 - 07/84

Patrol Squadron 46 — 01/85 - 05/87

Patrol Squadron 40 — 09/87 - 06/89

Joint Staff, Joint Chiefs of Staff — 07/90 - 07/93

Commander Patrol Wings Pacific — 08/93 - 08/97

Chief of Naval Operations — 09/97 -
Awards and Decorations: Meritorious Service Medal (2), Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2), Air Medal (2), Navy Unit Commendation (2), Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Meritorious Unit Commendation, (Gallantry Cross Color Medal with Palm), Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commendation (Civil Actions Medal, First Class Color with Palm), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (4), Navy and Marine Corps Service Ribbon, Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon, Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation