Name: Leon Potter
Age: 44
Hometown: Upland, California
Residence: Villages at Rancho El Dorado
Family: Married with three children and one1 granddaughter
Pets: Three dogs, one cat
Hobbies: Coaching soccer
Greatest talent: Recognizing and correcting inefficiencies in business operations
Age of enlistment: 17
Years in military: 11
Branch of service: U.S. Navy
Highest rank: E-5

Why did you join the military? I wanted the training and to see more of the world after high school while earning a living.

Where did you serve? San Diego.

What brought you to Maricopa? Affordable homes.

What incident in your military experience has had the biggest impact on your life? I gained a greater appreciation for my family and friends the day I left for boot camp.

What were some challenges you faced entering civilian life? I don’t believe I had anymore challenges than anyone that hadn’t served. In fact, I believe I have been blessed with many opportunities due to my prior service.

What was the best advice you received during your time in the military? Arrive early with uniform ironed, ready for the day’s work.

What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment is when we were in uniform during a port visit to Kuwait in 1992 after Kuwait regained freedom from Iraq. The Kuwaitis were so grateful that they thanked us everywhere we went. I remember one gentleman offered his wrist watch as a “thank you.” I respectfully declined the gift. I will always treasure how grateful they were to us simply because we represented the United States of America.

What is the one thing you would like civilians to know about the U.S. military? Although I didn’t witness any specific act of heroism, the men and women in the military put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis even doing “routine” procedures here in the United States. I am grateful for all the men and women that served before me, with me and after me. Thank you all!