His Bosnia Work Ends, Not His Active Service

After recently completing an eight-month stint at the U.S. European Command Headquarters in Germany, Marine Col. Lawrence Gonzales returned Monday to a different type of active duty--as the principal of Pacoima Elementary School.

The school’s staff and student body were joined Monday morning by parents and a group of dignitaries for a special Pride and Spirit Day Assembly that served as Gonzales’ official welcome home.

“Sometimes you have to go away to appreciate what you’ve got,” said Gonzales, who was clearly moved by the warm display. “We’ve got the loveliest kids in the district here. They are anxious, ambitious, inquisitive and full of life. They really inspire me to do my job.”

Gonzales, an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, also served in Saudi Arabia during the Persian Gulf War. He was called to duty last year as part of the Bosnia peacekeeping mission. His responsibilities included helping to coordinate military activities in Europe and Africa.

Monday, cutting an impressive figure with his military dress uniform and array of medals, Gonzales told the schoolchildren that he did his best to serve his country.

“We went over there to stop the killing, and that’s what we did. We provided hope where there was no hope only two years ago,” he said.

Monday’s assembly featured several student performances, including traditional Mexican dances by the school’s folklorico group and a mini-parade by the drill team. Speakers included Los Angeles Unified School District Supt. Sid Thompson and 7th District Councilman Richard Alarcon, among others.

“We’re just really proud of what he’s done and so happy that he’s back safe and sound,” said Assistant Principal Linda McClellan, who served as acting principal in Gonzales’ absence.

Many of the students, while too young to appreciate the risks of his military service, were nonetheless happy to see Gonzales return.

“I’m just glad he’s back because he’s the nicest principal we’ve ever had,” said 10-year-old Candice Mack.