KUNKA: Service then and now

In January 1979 I was a Marine in Okinawa with the 3rd Battalion Fourth Marines; Joe Kunka was with Weapons Company. We were both very new to the Corps. After a series of training exercises and physical conditioning hikes ranging from 12 miles up to 36 miles, our battalion got on a ship and went to Korea for several weeks of cold weather training. That is where I became acquainted with Joe Kunka.

Joe was always at the top of the class both physically and intellectually in the many trainings we attended together; he WAS the competition. After our time in Korea we were sent to the Philippines. Typhoon Tip had just hit mainland Japan, and was headed straight for the Philippines. We floated around for an eternity trying to avoid the typhoon. Our battalion returned to Okinawa when the Iranian crisis of 1979 broke out. Our training seemed to never end from one climate to another.

During this time I watched Joe grow from a private to a very seasoned Marine. Though Joe is not a politician he seems made to be one, as he does speak his mind, is very honest, and always commands respect. I served with Joe for four years. He picked up Meritorious Corporal in Mt. Fuji and became an expert with the TOW missile system. I have seen him display leadership qualities time and again in a variety of demanding situations.

The city of Coeur d’Alene would be well served with Joe as its mayor. They could rest assured that he will give 110 percent of his effort and world experience to making his city the best it can be. He will work effectively with all types of people, and make the mission happen.

JAMES DeANGELO

Staff Sergeant USMC

San Diego