Jesse Sanchez
Chaplain - Army

Jesse Sanchez served 20 years in the United State Army, including time with the 2nd and 8th Divisions and the 7th Division (Light). He received numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Services Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

Jesse comes from a patriotic family. His father (WWII), seven uncles (4 WWII), two nephews, two great nephews, one great niece and one grandson have all served or are still currently serving. As a veteran himself, Jesse is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 6309. He was past Commander from 2006-2008 and currently serves as Chaplain for the post. He’s also an American Legion Post 217 member, represents both posts in Gilroy’s Color/Honor Guards, and Sergeant At Arms North.

This San Martin native earned his associates degree in physical education from Gavilan College but pursued a career in security. He retired in 2016, after nearly 20 years as a safety and security manager at St. Louise Hospital. Jesse also finds time volunteer in the community, including as a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Gilroy Citizen Police Academy’s Volunteer in Policing (VIP) program. He enjoys working with youth as a Charter Representative for the Scouts of American Pack 794 and St. Mary’s Youth Group Mission Mexico, with which he’s participated for nearly 20 years.

He and his lovely wife, Peggy, have five children and 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. When he’s not spending time with family or volunteering he still enjoys working as a handyman or creating works of art in his garage.