by Katie Compagnone
The Point Loma High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) is an integral part of the Pointer community, helping students to become future leaders and achieve their personal goals. Tragically, the program lost a key member, Major Ian Santos, USMC Retired, this past summer.
Santos was killed in June in a local motorcycle accident, leaving the members of the PLHS NJROTC program devastated.
"When I heard of his passing I was in shock," said recent PLHS graduate, student Commanding Officer John Burrell. "It was way too soon. I've lost family members and others I love but never anyone I've respected as much."
"He led by example," Burrell added, "How to be a better leader, a better person. He was a mentor and a friend, giving us nicknames and making it fun.”
Principal Lowry noted that, "His care for students, love for his work and dedication to our community will forever be remembered."
In addition to his devotion to the NJROTC program, Major Santos was a dedicated father of four, and described by many as a kid at heart and always willing to help others. He will greatly be missed by the Pointer community.