Menifee Resident Michael Cano Honored as Veteran of the Year

Michael Cano, a Menifee resident and veteran of the United States Marine Corps, was honored this week as the 2014 67th Assembly District Veteran of the Year.

Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez honored Cano, who served as Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps, in a special ceremony in Sacramento. Melendez and Cano joined other veterans and elected officials at the State Capitol for the seventh annual Veteran of the Year Recognition Ceremony and Luncheon.

Cano started his military service by volunteering for the draft in June of 1968. He served his country as a Lance Corporal during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in July of 1974.

A longstanding member of the Menifee community, Cano is a Professor of Economics at the University of La Verne, owner of his own small business, and serves as an active member of VFW Post 1956.

“I take great pride in naming Michael Cano as my district’s Veteran of the Year,” said Melendez. “His service to our country and fellow veterans over the years is inspiring and deserves recognition.”

During Cano’s service, he was wounded twice, receiving two Purple Hearts and for his distinguished service he was also awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Palm, a Combat Action Ribbon, a Vietnam Campaign Medal Device, a Vietnam Service Medal Star, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

“A twice wounded combat veteran and recipient of numerous honorable awards and distinctions, Michael Cano is a man to admire,” Melendez said. “His dedication to the Marine Corps core values of honor, courage, and commitment is a shining example for all. I am truly honored to be his representative.”

Melendez represents the 67th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar and a portion of Hemet. It also includes the Riverside County unincorporated areas of Lake Mathews, Good Hope, Nuevo, and Winchester.