Bob Weishan, a 28-year volunteer and founding member of the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP’s) El Cajon Area Senior Volunteer Program (SVP), recently enjoyed a “drive by” parade held in his honor. Hosted by fellow volunteers, El Cajon Area CHP Commander Captain Fouyer, and many CHP officers, the surprise parade went off without a hitch on June 10 at Montgomery Middle School in El Cajon. It was a “drive by” parade in accordance with the social distancing rules that are currently in place in San Diego County due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Bob was told that he was coming to meet with Aging & Independence Services staff to be interviewed for an article about his time as a volunteer. He was happily surprised when he saw many of his family members and found out he was really there to witness the parade. Afterwards, Captain Fouyer presented Bob with a special CHP award, the Division Chief’s Commendation. Bob was also awarded a plaque from the El Cajon Squad Club by Officer April Laue, the El Cajon Area CHP SVP Coordinator, and a certificate of appreciation from the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program.
Bob has led—and continues to lead—a full and rewarding life. He was born in the Los Angeles community of El Sereno. After high school, Bob enlisted in the United Stated Marine Corps and was assigned to the 81 Mortars, 1st Marine Regiment, and 1st Marine Division, at Camp Pendleton. On September 15th, 1950, Bob was deployed to the Korean War. He was involved in the invasion of Inchon, the capture of Seoul, and the Epic Battle of the Korean War. He also fought in the famous battles of Punch Bowl, Heartbreak Ridge, and the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. During his military service, he sustained injuries that resulted in his status as a disabled veteran. On February 9, 1952, Bob married his former 4th grade classmate. The happy couple recently celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary and together enjoy four children, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
Bob worked for 11 years in the space industry, testing Rocket Dyne Engines. He was instrumental in the Apollo and Gemini Space Programs. Bob then spent 20 years working for the American Automobile Association (AAA) in accident investigation and litigation. He worked for the National Football League (NFL) as well. From 1985 to 2007, Bob ran up and down the sidelines of the field at the stadium, holding the down and distance markers for every NFL football game, including three Super Bowls. In 1992, the El Cajon Area CHP started the Senior Volunteer Program and it served as a pilot program for the state of California. As one of the founding members, Bob played a significant role in the success the SVP enjoys to this day. Bob was selected as the Administrator of the program and dedicated many years to that leadership/supervisory role. In addition, Bob served as the Border Division Representative to the State Senior Volunteer Committee. Bob was instrumental in the design of the SVP badge and service pins, recognizing the years each volunteer has contributed.
During his tenure, Bob participated in countless assignments, parades, and programs in the community. He has over 25,000 hours of volunteer service with the SVP and has been a mentor to more than 75 volunteers. His dedication to the program has been invaluable and speaks volumes about his character. He has left a lasting impact, not only on the El Cajon Area, but also on the entire California Highway Patrol. Thank you, Bob, for making San Diego County—and our country—a better place!
