John Acuña Memorial Scholarship

My path to higher education has been unconventional, shaping my dedication to service, justice, and perseverance. Growing up in an unstable family environment, I learned the importance of safety, advocacy, and second chances. When the courts placed me with my grandparents, their support helped me build stability. School was often difficult. I struggled to focus, felt overwhelmed, and didn’t understand why learning was different for me. I barely graduated and struggled early in college, but I later realized I needed structure, purpose, and support that matched how I learned, which led me to join the military. At twenty-two, I enlisted in the California National Guard to build discipline, develop skills, and continue my education. I chose to become a military police officer because my childhood experiences inspired me to understand justice better and to protect others. After completing training at Fort McClellan in 1997, I returned to Santa Ana College, where guidance counselor Mr. Acuna and my military confidence gave me the belief that I could achieve my goals. I then moved from the National Guard to active-duty Army in Heidelberg, Germany, working with NATO units. This broadened my understanding of service, leadership, diplomacy, rights, and community development. During this time, I was diagnosed with ADHD, which helped me understand my academic struggles and that I could succeed with the right support. In 2002, I returned to the US, served at Fort Hood, Texas, and later became an aviation operations specialist. I was promoted to Staff Sergeant, deployed to Iraq twice, and served in leadership roles. My military experiences deepened my interest in law, justice, and human rights, guiding my decision to study international law. Retiring from the Army brought new challenges. Living in Texas with limited support, I struggled with focus, PTSD, and adjusting outside the military. Guided by counselors, I paused my studies until I was ready and later moved to California to rebuild my support system. In 2019, I started working in Disneyland security, applying Army skills to ensure guest safety. After COVID-19 shutdowns and a workplace injury, I reflected on my future and realized I wanted to serve my community and, more broadly, society. With renewed purpose, I returned to school. In 2024, I began studying paralegal studies at Santa Ana College, supported by veterans and disability services. I excelled academically, joined honor societies, and earned an associate degree, Pathway to Law Certificate, and Paralegal Certificate. My current goal is to complete Chapman University’s bachelor’s in Peace and Justice Studies, which aligns with my interests in international law and advocacy. I aim to attend law school and pursue a career in international justice. As a veteran, challenges like PTSD, ADHD, injuries, and adapting to civilian life have impacted my goals. But these experiences have strengthened my resolve, teaching me that support, asking for help, and persistence turn obstacles into purpose. Like Mr. Acuna, I want my life after service to remain rooted in community. I support others by encouraging veterans to use available resources, sharing what I have learned through my transition, and participating in spaces such as the Veterans Resource Center. I also strive to model perseverance, education, and service for my daughter. As I continue my education, I carry forward the lessons of military service: discipline, resilience, and responsibility to others. I plan to serve through legal work that protects vulnerable people, promotes justice, and helps resolve conflicts through law. My journey has taught me that service does not end with the uniform; it continues through how I use my education, experience, and voice to create meaningful change.

After serving 22 years in the United States Marine Corps as a helicopter mechanic, I retired as a Gunnery Sergeant. I was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California, and Hawaii, and deployed seven times-three of those to combat zones in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan. I also served with the 11th and 31st Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) based out of Okinawa, Japan. That chapter taught me discipline, leadership, and a commitment to serving others-values that continue to guide me. Since retiring, I've started a new chapter focused on rebuilding my life through education and giving back. I'm a full-time student at Santa Ana College, working toward a degree in Human Services. My GPA is now 3.43, and I'm currently retaking a course I previously struggled in-so far, I'm holding a strong A and staying consistent with my work. My goal is to transfer to a CSU and eventually earn my MSW. The military taught me how to adapt, lead under pressure, and most importantly, how to keep going when things get tough. After leaving the service, I went through some personal struggles, including legal issues and alcoholism. Thanks to Veterans Treatment Court, I got a second chance and the tools to turn my life around. That experience inspired me to help others-especially veterans-find their way forward. That's why I chose Human Services. I want to be someone veterans can turn to when they feel lost or stuck-someone who truly understands because I've been there too. I currently work as a VA work-study student at Santa Ana College's Veteran Resource Center, helping fellow vets access the support and benefits they've earned. I've also shared my story through the Rising Scholars program, speaking on student panels to motivate others rebuilding their lives through education. I have volunteered at Someone Cares Soup Kitchen and Patriots and Paws, supporting both the homeless community and fellow veterans in need. These moments remind me that even small efforts can make a big difference. I've relocated to North Orange County to be closer to my sons, which allows me to stay active in their lives despite the challenges of co-parenting. Being a present and supportive father is just as important to me as school or work. I'm balancing all of this-classes, volunteering, parenting, and work-on a limited income from disability and student benefits. This scholarship would ease some of that financial pressure and allow me to stay focused on school and caring for my family. It would also support my continued commitment to service-both in the classroom and out in the community. I never thought I'd be here, going from military life to college classrooms, but I'm more motivated than ever. My past shaped me, but it doesn't define me. I'm building something better-for my sons, for myself, and for the veterans I plan to serve in the future.

I began my military career in the Montana Army National Guard as a combat medic. I later transferred to the New Mexico Army National Guard, where I was assigned to a signal slot as a switchboard operator. From there, I transitioned to Active Duty service, trained as a Surgical Technician, and was stationed at Fort Sam Houston and William Beaumont Army Medical Center. After leaving Active Duty at the rank of Private First Class (PFC), I spent time in the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR), briefly served in the Army Reserve, and then returned to IRR before completing my service with an honorable discharge. I left the Guard at the rank of Specialist (E-4). Although my military career had its twists, it provided me with a solid foundation in discipline, accountability, and adaptability. It also came with significant challenges. As a survivor of Military Sexual Trauma (MST), I carried invisible scars that followed me long after discharge. For a long time, I struggled — with trust, anxiety, and a sense of direction. It was not until I rediscovered service in civilian life that I began to truly heal. Today, I lead several community initiatives focused on service and resilience. I’m a volunteer leader with Team Rubicon, where I coordinate disaster response operations and assist other veterans in navigating life after the military. I also co-founded The Little Woodbank, a nonprofit led by disabled veterans that splits and delivers firewood to families across northwest Montana, many of whom are elderly, disabled, or fellow veterans. Since our founding, we’ve helped more than two dozen families stay warm each winter, and we are now building partnerships with forestry organizations to turn fire mitigation waste into home heating assistance. This work gives me a tangible way to serve and reconnect with the community I love. My husband, a retired U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant (TSgt), also lives with combat-related PTSD. Together, we’ve dedicated our lives to supporting others who walk similar paths. I am currently pursuing an AAS in Surgical Technology, returning to the field that first gave me a sense of purpose during my military service. I now view the operating room as a place where I can put my skills — and my calm under pressure — to use for others. We also run a judo club in rural Yuma County, Arizona, where we teach martial arts to kids who would not otherwise be able to afford it. We charge just $25 per month, and some families do not pay at all. Many of these kids have experienced bullying, trauma, or behavioral challenges. Through judo, we teach them respect, discipline, and how to manage conflict without violence. It is not just about throws and technique — it is about building kids up from the inside out. We have seen shy kids become confident, angry kids find control, and lonely kids discover a sense of belonging. Community service saved me. Now, it is my turn to give that gift to others — in the OR, on the mat, in the woods, and in the lives I touch.

My name is Juan Delacruz, and I am honored to apply for the John Acuna Scholarship. I proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as an 0341 Mortarman, achieving the rank of Corporal. During my time in the Marines, I was deployed to the PACCOM region as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in 2020. I was stationed at Camp Pendleton in California, where I developed the skills, discipline, and resilience that have helped shape my life and career ambitions. My experiences in the military have not only molded my character but also inspired my educational and professional goals, particularly in the field of psychology. My current educational goal is to obtain a master’s degree in psychology, I recently graduated from Santa Ana College in the spring of 2024 with two Associates to transfer in Psychology and Administration of Justice and am transferring to Chapman University as a junior this fall with the aim of becoming either a guidance counselor for veterans or a clinical psychologist specializing in veteran care. The military taught me important lessons that have had a deep impact on my daily life and aspirations. Discipline, attention to detail, dependability, integrity, and courage were all qualities instilled in me during my service. These principles have guided me through my transition from the Marines to civilian life, helping me to focus on my studies and pursue a career that allows me to give back to the veteran community. My military service has shown me the importance of mental health support, particularly for those who have served, and this realization has become the driving force behind my educational and career goals. As a veteran, I have faced several challenges while in my pursuit of these goals. The transition from military to civilian life can be difficult, as the structure and support systems provided by the military are often not as readily available in civilian life. Navigating educational benefits, managing the demands of academic life and finding a sense of purpose outside the uniform are just a few of the hurdles I have encountered. Despite these challenges, I remain committed to my goals, drawing on the resilience and determination that my military service instilled in me. Following my service, I have actively sought ways to give back to my community, much like John Acuna did. I am involved in outreach efforts, particularly in spreading awareness about educational benefits, resources, and career exploration opportunities to active-duty service members and veterans. Additionally, I had the privilege of working alongside John Acuna during my early semesters at Santa Ana College as a Work Study and am now employed by Santa Ana College as the Interim Student Program Specialist at the Veterans Resource Center. It was through this experience that I discovered my passion for helping other veterans and transitioning service members, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in psychology. My commitment to supporting my fellow veterans reflects the values I hold dear, and I am determined to continue this work as I advance in my academic and professional journey. In conclusion, my service in the Marine Corps has significantly shaped who I am today and has influenced my goals of becoming a psychologist specifically for veterans. The challenges I have faced as a veteran have only strengthened my desire to succeed, and my involvement in the community reflects my dedication to giving back to those who have served. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for the John Acuna Scholarship, and I am committed to carrying on his legacy of service and support to the veteran community.