Since 2007, Rancho Remembers has been a cherished tradition dedicated to honoring veterans and preserving their stories. Now in its 18th year, the 2025 event at Rancho Cucamonga High School brought together over 200 veterans, creating meaningful connections with students from the sophomore to senior classes.
Many students eagerly engaged in conversations, paying tribute to those who served, while others worked behind the scenes, serving breakfast and dinner, assisting with cleanup, and ensuring the event ran smoothly.
“I joined the Navy to see the world,” said Pete Ashlock, who served for four years during the Vietnam War. “I had never left California, so I saw it as my chance to explore other countries.”
In January 1966, at just 19 years old, Ashlock enlisted in the military. He shared the grueling work he faced in his first role as a Boatswain’s Mate (BM), a job that kept him constantly moving. Whether it was hauling cargo, securing supplies, or handling mooring lines, there was never a moment to rest. The work was tough, demanding endurance, discipline, and a whole lot of sweat—but it became a defining part of his time in the Navy.
“Since I was always at sea, I had plenty of time, so I decided to learn how to be a trade clerk. When the guy in the role had to leave unexpectedly, I was chosen to take over,” said Ashlock. “The job taught me a lot about working with people and treating them the right way.”
Ashlock also shared his experience as a gunman, describing how the sound of helicopters still takes him back to those moments.
“Every time I hear a helicopter, I’m back,” he said. “I also face health problems now from the orange gas that was used to kill vegetation.”
Another veteran, Michael Hughes, who also served in Vietnam, had a different story. He was a Spec 5 (SP5) in the Army and served for two years.
“I was drafted to serve in Vietnam—I didn’t have a choice,” said Hughes. “What many people didn’t understand was that when we retreated and faced backlash from the American public, the anger was directed at soldiers like me who didn’t choose to be there, as well as those who enlisted.”
Hughes opened up about the challenges he faced after his time in service, including PTSD, hearing loss, and high blood pressure. He also shared his thoughts on the political climate, expressing frustration with the growing division between parties. Hughes emphasized his belief that wars should come to an end.
“No one who served supports war,” Hughes said. “It’s the people sitting at home or those profiting from it who want war.”
In addition to sharing his experience, Hughes also shared his views on the current leadership and military as well.
“That’s why I favor Trump over Biden,” Hughes said. “Biden didn’t recognize the issues with Zelensky from Ukraine trying to join NATO, even though they had promised Russia they wouldn’t. Meanwhile, Trump is focused on building the military back up.”
In it’s 18th year, Rancho Remembers continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the importance of preserving their stories. In the events, students have heartfelt conversations with the veterans to gain a deeper understanding of military life and its lasting impact.
RCHS students said they enjoyed listening to many of the veterans’ stories.
“I liked Rancho Remembers because I liked talking to the veterans and getting their opinions on political things and also understanding how the war was in a first-hand experience,” junior Neneh Conteh said.
Junior Joseph Ghobrial also said he enjoyed the veterans’ stories.
“One of the veterans had won an Emmy award; he was in a movie directed by Mel Gibson,” Ghobrial said. “They had so many great stories; it was all inspirational.”
This year’s event featured more than 200 veterans, including five World War II veterans who spoke with students.
