Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Los Angeles) honored Khoa Nquyen as Veteran of the Year for the 43rd Assembly District. Nguyen returned to Glendale after serving his country as a U.S. Marine in a humanitarian mission in Africa for two years and has founded a non-profit organization that provides free lessons to disadvantaged youth teaching them how to play tennis, practice yoga and even how to read.

“I want to use my talents and experiences to help under privileged children. They need it,” said Nquyen. “Growing up, people always want to feel a sense of self-worth. I felt that in Africa.”

“I picked Khoa because I believe it is of paramount importance to recognize a new generation of young men and women who are serving our country,” said Gatto.  “He is an inspiration to our veterans that have served in the military and have the opportunity to use the tools they’ve acquired in military service to selflessly give back to their community.”

  Between Friends, JUNE 30, Mike Gatto, NQUYEN