I respectfully request your support for the naming of Leo Giron Drive in Stockton, CA.

Reliable sources have indicated they are hearing that San Joaquin County officials feel there may not be enough support to name the street leading to the new VA hospital in Stockton "Leo Giron Drive."

As many of us in the Filipino American community know, Leo Giron:

• was handpicked by General Douglas MacArthur to parachute behind enemy lines in the Philippines during World War II.
• was instrumental in providing tactical intelligence behind enemy lines that allowed for the US Armed Forces to defeat Japanese forces in the Philippines during World War II.

• received a Bronze Star for service to the United States of America.
• returned to his community of Stockton, California.
• was one of few Escrima masters who brought the fighting art to America, allowing others to learn and appreciate the art.
• created Bahala Na Martial Arts in Stockton which has spread throughout America and internationally.

Of course, that's just a few of his accomplishments.

Time is of the essence. The length of the letter is not as important as the amount of support the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors need to see. Even just a letter that says "I support the naming of Leo Giron Drive" would be sufficient. Please send and fax your short letter to:

SJC Board of Supervisors
Attn: Supervisor Carlos Villapudua
44 N. San Joaquin St.
Sixth Floor, Suite 627
Stockton, CA 95202

Fax number: 209-468-3694

Thank you in advance for your support.