Carmine “Cal” A. Santare

MEDALS-RIBBONS: Air Medal, Distinguished Unit, American Theater Campaign, Asiatic-Pacific
Campaign w/Arrowhead, Philippine Liberation w/Star

Already physically fit, Carmine trained for jungle warfare and intensified combat in the South Pacific. He healed from his
wounds to continue to lead at Lumn, south Philippines, Leyte, and New Guinea.

Carmine A Santare was a leader. Not only in the military where he advanced from the enlisted ranks to captain, but in civilian life as well. And his leadership and accomplishments in the 511 Parachute Division are very evident in the medals and awards shown here today. Testaments to his patriotism, heroism, and sense of duty. His life after military service was just as exemplary.

Shortly after his discharge he bought a business in Brooklyn, New York, and then joined the American Legion where he was elected Commander.  A few years later he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps, selling his business and becoming a federal meat grader with the Department of Agriculture. During his tenure, he was promoted to Main Station Supervisor in New York, and then in California. His area covered multiple states. He was awarded three Superior Service Awards; an acknowledgment of outstanding performance of his duties; unprecedented at the time.

After retirement, the same industry that he had overseen for decades now petitioned him to represent them. Because of his leadership, and irreproachable fairness he became the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Western States Meat Packers Association. An organization of six hundred members covering the thirteen western states who needed strong experienced leadership to mediate with the USDA and other agencies in Washington D.C. The association awarded him the Floyd Forbes Award in appreciation for his accomplishments. He retired only to continue doing what he did best. He was a man driven to public service. Whether it be a Trustee with the local Elks Lodge, a Golf Commissioner, a golf club president, a planner and organizer of a new senior center, or a confidant to various mayors of his hometown.

He garnered not only the love and respect of his entire family but the community at large as well. He was and continues to be, a hero, someone to be proud of and emulate.  Truly gone, but not forgotten.