Frank Rivera

Captain Frank Rivera is a graduated of Mercedes High School Class of 1977. Captain Rivera joined the US Navy where his first tour of duty started in Hawaii, Onboard USS Davidson (FF-1045).  Petty Officer Rivera was awarded 1st Navy Achievement Medal, for rescuing a CH46 Helicopter pilot after it crashed nearby, Petty Officer Rivera maneuvering his Boston Whaler in a debris filled crash site and recovered one of the 2 crewmen and 2pilots Only 1 injured pilot was found. “The action of Petty Officer Rivera was credited by USS Wichita’s Commending Officer with saving the pilots life”.

During his career Chief Rivera received:

• 2 Navy Commendation Medal
• 1 Army Commendation Medal
• 1 Army Achievement Medal
• 4 Navy Achievement Medals
• 4 National Defense Service Medal
• 2 Navy Expeditionary Medal
• 3 Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
• 3 Humanitarian Medals
• 5 Good Conduct Medals
• 6 Sea Service Medals

Deployments:

• Operation Desert Storm
• Operation Restore Hope in Somalia
• Beirut Marine Barracks Rescue Mission

Chief Rivera severed honorability for 25 years. His Naval careers allow him to polish his skills as a Boat Captain and his skills as a mariner. After retiring from the Navy he continued to work for Defense Support Services, LLC for 15 years, located in Coronado, Ca.  Enhancing Navy Amphibious Operation Training as an ACE High Risk Instructor and Curriculum developer, and earned his 100 Ton Master, STCW 95, Radar Observer (Unlimited), and commercial assistance towing credentials.