SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) today announced that she has named Army Captain Forrest Frields as the 2015 Veteran of the Year for the 44th Assembly District.
“It is an honor to recognize Forrest Fields for his outstanding service to the nation and out community.” said Irwin. Captain Frields is an incredible man who deserves recognition for his sacrifices and leadership both in Vietnam and at home.”
Assemblymember Irwin, Chair of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee presided over the ceremony as she presented the award to Capt. Frields at the Eighth Annual Veterans Recognition Luncheon in Sacramento. Captain Frields served two combat tours as an Army helicopter aviator in Vietnam from 1966 through 1972. Through his bravery and leadership, Capt. Fields earned over 25 Air Medals, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, an Air Medal for Valor, a Bronze star, and a Purple Heart.
While Capt. Frields remembers his years of service, he remarked that it was not without sacrifice. “I was lucky that I didn't lose any family members, fraternity brothers or longtime friends in Vietnam. But I did lose comrades: new buddies, fellow pilots. My helicopter flight class of 260 officers was whittled down to 150 by the end of 1968.” Mr. Frields said.
Upon discharge, Forrest studied Photography, Art, and Graphic Design, quickly becoming an accomplished professional photographer. Since leaving the armed forces, Capt. Frields has been an active community leader in Ventura County, serving as a Planning Commissioner for 8 years and a Housing Authority Commissioner for 12. For many years, Mr. Frields produced Veterans Day and Memorial Day observances in Westlake Village, California. Now retired, Forrest lives with his wife Cathy in Thousand Oaks, still taking pictures and volunteering at the local Senior Center.