As we near the close of 2023, a significant transition is taking place at Golden West. Starting in the new year, I will embark on a new role as the Foundation President and Chairman of the Board, relinquishing my position as CEO to the capable hands of Rommel Meza. Rommel, a distinguished figure and a familiar face at the Foundation, recently retired from the HDTC, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in operational management, strategic doctrine development, and HMA program oversight.
In today’s world, research suggests that CEOs are holding their positions longer, sometimes becoming hesitant to let go of the organizations they’ve helped build. Over time, experience accumulates, but it can sometimes lead to resistance to change and fresh perspectives that may benefit the organization. I have long held the belief that remaining in a leadership role for an extended period can be counterproductive and hinder progress.
It has been a distinct privilege and honor to be part of the Golden West family since 2003 and to serve as your CEO for the past seven years. When you consider my 36 years of military service, that’s a significant span of time. In my role as Foundation President, my responsibility will be to support Rommel’s transition, drawing from my years of experience to provide guidance without interfering. We will create an environment conducive to his success and fully endorse his decisions.
In closing, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff, loyal clients, and valued partners. Your unwavering support over the past seven years has been instrumental in our achievements.
It has been a pleasure to serve as your CEO and witness the remarkable work that Golden West has accomplished during this time. As I transition to my new role, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for the opportunities it will bring and the chance to continue serving this incredible community. Thank you all for your support and for being part of this incredible journey.
Al Vosburgh
President, Golden West Humanitarian Foundation
WELCOME MR. ROMMEL MEZA CEO, GOLDEN WEST HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION
Golden West Humanitarian Foundation welcomes our new CEO, Rommel Meza. We sat down with Rommel to gain insights into his background, vision, and what lies ahead for the organization.
Rommel’s journey as CEO officially kicks off in the new year, but to ensure a seamless transition, he will be taking on the role of Deputy CEO from November through December, as outgoing CEO, Al Vosburgh, assumes the position of President and Chairman of the Board. This transition period allows Rommel to familiarize himself with the organization’s personnel, values, and vision, making him well-prepared to take the reins in January.
Al’s continued involvement as President promises to be an invaluable resource as he navigates his new responsibilities. “Mr. Vosburgh has been an incredible leader, mentor, and asset for Golden West,” Rommel said. “I look forward to his guidance, inspiration, and mentorship as we move forward to continued success.”
Rommel brings with him a wealth of experience, having dedicated 29 years of service to the U.S. Navy, on multiple deployments, with the majority of his service as an EOD Technician. Upon retiring from the military, Rommel served for five years as a strategic planner for the U.S. Army EOD Directorate, (now titled TRADOC Proponent Office or TPO-EOD). This role allowed him to harness his experience and creativity to bolster the capabilities of the Army EOD community.
His next mission took him to the field of HMA for the HDTC, where he conducted assessments for partner nations and helped prepare U.S. EOD and ammunition personnel for deployments in support of HMA. Rommel’s work alongside numerous NGOs opened his eyes to the effectiveness and professionalism of Golden West members.
As Rommel prepares to assume the role of CEO in 2024, he is keenly focused on ensuring that Golden West continues to excel. “Our best years lie ahead of us, and together we will continue to do great things,” he affirms.
In closing, Rommel expressed his enthusiasm for meeting the Golden West community and serving in the organization’s best interest. The future continues to look promising under his leadership, and we can’t wait to witness the remarkable journey ahead.
PSSM FOUNDATION TRAINING, MOLDOVA
Golden West Humanitarian Foundation is pleased to share the successful delivery of the first PSSM foundation training with the Moldovan Military, in partnership with US EU Command HMA Program.
Together we provided essential mentoring to the Moldovan Military during 3 weeks of theoretical and practical sessions, a vital reinforcement of the classroom learnings delivered by the Moldovan Instructors. There were 13 excellent trainees including, for the first time, 30% female participants.
CAMBODIAN DEFENSE MINISTER H.E. TEA SEIHA VISITS K4
We were honored to welcome Cambodian Defense Minister H. E. Tea Seiha to our small arms and light weapons demolition site earlier this month. Minister Seiha was given a tour of the facility, including a historical presentation of some of the weapons that have been rendered safe, and a demonstration of the SALW demolition.
These weapons, ranging from personal arms to automatic rifles, have found their way into RCAF storage facilities across Cambodia due to decades of border defense. With weapons originating from multiple suppliers over the past 60 years, each day brings us closer to the country’s history. While Russian AK-47 and SKS variants dominate, we’ve uncovered US Vietnam War-era weapons and Chinese armaments, including mortars and rockets amongst other items.
This program is funded by the U.S. State Department WRA and the Royal Government of Cambodia together we are promoting greater security in Cambodia, and across the region, by eliminating these weapons.
Program Update
Swim For Life’s latest initiative focuses on supporting 12 schools in high-risk drowning areas, reaching a staggering total of 9,264 children! These young minds are being equipped with vital knowledge and skills to ensure they stay safe in the face of water-related risks.
The activities are both educational and engaging, making the learning process not just informative but fun for the children.
The heart of Swim For Life’s efforts lies in equipping children with the knowledge and skills to stay safe around water.
To achieve this, SFL organized sessions to teach the children about water safety and rescue, using float objects. These hands-on experiences allow the children to better understand the principles of buoyancy and how to handle themselves in water-related emergencies.
Swim For Life’s mission is a testament to the power of education and community engagement in the quest to reduce drowning incidents.
As they continue to make waves in drowning prevention, they offer hope for a future where the water can be enjoyed safely by all.
