Jon's thoughts: It is always an honor to photograph a military family that has served at Davis Monthan Air Force Base. I met Kay and Gene a few years ago when they asked me to create an art piece celebrating their 30 years together. During their session they fascinated me with stories from their travels as their various assignments took them throughout the world. As a command pilot Gene racked up more than 4,000 hours in fighter aircraft including two tours in Southeast Asia. Gene, a retired lieutenant general (three stars), was the Senior Commander at DMAFB from 1990-1993. He retired as Vice Commander of Pacific Air Forces, his last assignment in Hawaii. As Vice Commander Gene was responsible for Air Force activities covering half the world supporting 55,000 people serving at 12 major locations around the South Pacific.
In both Gene and Kay I found not only a passion
for each other but also for our country. They radiate strength, commitment,
honesty, integrity and warmth. Thank you both for all you have done in the
service to our country!
We had talked about a family portrait for years,
putting it off for no good reason. Finally getting over our lethargy and meeting
with Jon proved to be one of the memorable experiences of our lives. From the
“get to know you” initial meeting, through the photo shoot, the selection
process, and finishing with the final portraits, the experience was filled with
Jon’s “professional excellence”. His personal touch with each step instilled a
confidence in us along the way. We could not have asked for a better
experience.
Then
to top it off, Jon honored Gene with a request to create portraits of him in
uniform. Jon’s thoughtfulness and ability to capture in a few portraits the
meaning of the moment, and 32 years of professional military life, continue to
marvel us. We will be forever grateful.
- Lt General (Ret), USAF Eugene & Kay Santarelli
Exceptional portraits of this handsome General in uniform!
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