Early this morning, Past Department Commandant John Vorhies died suddenly and peacefully in his sleep at home his wife Toni of 62 years was by his side.  He was active in our Detachment.  I spoke with him on Saturday.

John was a longtime member of the World Famous San Diego Bulldog Detachment #835.  He served in Many capacities within the detachment, including serving as the Detachment Commandant.   He was the recipient of the Detachment’s Marine of the Year.  He was a frequent face at Detachment events.

John Served as Department Commandant from June 2008 through June 2010.  He had served in many Department offices prior to serving as Commandant.  John received the Department’s Leaguer of the year in 2008.  He always told me that he was so shocked and honored to be presented the award by the previous recipient Richard Williams, who was also from our Detachment.

After stepping down as Department Commandant, PDD Vorhies was elected and served for three years as the Worthy Pack Leader of the California Pack.

I will keep many of you posted on any final ceremonies.

He is expected to be laid to rest with full Military Honors in San Diego.