Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Eugene and Kay Santarelli:























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!

Gene honored me recently by allowing me to create portraits of him in uniform which I am thrilled to share with you here.


From Kay: We now have a “Jon Wolf” in our home, and love it. Everyone comments who walks through our front door.

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

1 comment:

  1. Exceptional portraits of this handsome General in uniform!

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