With 50 people in attendance, Cpl. Robert “Bob” Jack Calvillo was honored with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) Korean War Medallion presented by NCOA Central Valley Chapter Chairman CMSgt Jim Sullivan, USAF (Ret) at Carlton Senior Living Orangevale.
Additionally, the offices of Rep. Kevin  Kiley CA-3, Assemblyman Josh Hoover AD-7 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of California gave special certificates of recognition to Cpl. Calvillo – who belongs to Folsom VFW Post 6604 – acknowledging his heroic sacrifices serving in the Korean War and unfortunate subsequent capture as a Prisoner of War. Special guests in attendance included Senior Vice Commander of the VFW Department of California SFC David Kuta (Ret), Placerville VFW Camerado Post 10165 Commander US Army CSM Lenny McAdams (Ret) and VFW Auxiliary Post 6604 Chaplain Kelle Hernandez.
Calvillo, the second of eight children, was born Aug. 21, 1929, in Oakland. He joined the US Army in 1948 for a three-year enlistment. In August 1950, he boarded a troop ship to Korean. Once in country, he was attached to IX Corps, 2nd Infantry Division Field Artillery, 38th Field Artillery Battalion, Bravo Co., as a Private First-Class field cook. Calvillo found himself on the main battle lines in North Korea.
On an extremely humid, blustery cold Korean Peninsula Day, in the early hours of Dec. 1, 1950, performing his job as a field cook and not knowing of his future plight or US Army Forces predicament in the coming hours, Cavillo and his company band of brothers were behind enemy lines. By mid to late afternoon, they were suddenly overrun by North Korean and Chinese soldiers, with and without weapons, as he remembers, swarming down like a crashing wave from the mountains.
Calvillo found a rifle in hands during the chaos. He encountered a Chinese soldier in a foxhole and remembers vividly the moment when he stared at this “scared, young kid.” As his finger was squeezing the trigger, he released the pressure just below the 4½ pounds needed for the firing pin to hit the cartridge releasing the full metal jacket, only to let the enemy go. He could not shoot an unarmed enemy combatant. Afterward, “I hid in the bushes with another soldier close by to two lifeless bodies of North Korean soldiers. I was thinking they were going to shoot us when they caught me. Blame us for killing them,” Bob said.
The overwhelming numbers of the enemy were too much for US forces to repel and subsequently the soldiers were quickly surrounded by the North Korean and Chinese armies. Calvillo was captured in the early evening hours at the Battle of the Ch’ongch’on River, becoming one of many Prisoners of War. According to Robert, “When they surrounded us and captured me, I thought it was the end. I thought they would kill us. After the enemy came marching down and surrounded us, all I had was a field shirt, trench coat, boots and scarf. I lost my steel helmet. They took us captive, marching us north.”
They now led the demoralized American Battalion deeper into North Korea on a long, cold trek, village to village, house to house, shack to shack, finally to where they were only sleeping under a canopy of stars. En route north, Calvillo saw a mass enemy Army march in large groups past him heading south toward entrenched US forces with the captives not knowing their fate. The Chinese and North Koreans were advancing against the US Army and pushing the battle lines further back with the Americans in fast retreat. However, Robert’s predicament would only worsen the longer he stayed alive.
Calvillo remarked on his overall feeling of his time as a POW, “It was terrible. terrible. The North Koreans were mean.” He remembered while on his journey north, “I went outside this house they had us in to (urinate). I was forced by a North Korean back into the house or they’d shoot me. If you didn’t do what they say, the North Koreans will shoot you. Sheltering outside, sleeping under the frigid cold blanket of the Korean winter was terrible.”
One of Calvillo’s most horrible memories described in few words, “One guy I knew tried to escape running up a hill after (our) capture and (the North Koreans) just shot him without saying anything. He was a nice guy.”
They left the unknown soldier for his family to never truly know his fate. This memory reel still plays over and over in his mind, Bob said. He and the US Army prisoners were marched further north toward the Yal-Lu River during the coldest part of winter, without winter gear, arriving at the border between North Korea and China. The American POWs ended up in “Prison Camp 5,” where he was kept for more than two years under atrocious living conditions and severe inclement weather. The prison camp was manned by Chinese guards, where they separated the officers from the enlisted with other separate groups.
Although the Chinese captors were much better hosts than the North Koreans, Calvillo recalled, “Two guys escaped from the Chinese camp and were never seen again. The Chinese told us if you get captured by the North Koreans, we can’t be responsible for what they do.” The Chinese captors from time to time would tell them they were being set free, only to suffer under the false pretenses of hope being mentally tortured.
“We didn’t have shelter. When it snowed, me and two other prisoners would cover ourselves with a mattress to try to keep warm. That was the only warmth not to die,” he said. By this time, Robert only had his field coat during his time as a prisoner lucky to have boot wear. American POWs were not supplied anything extra since their capture. Said Calvillo, “Once a day, they fed us, (and) all they gave us (was) simple things and rice. Fed usually mid morning with a cup of rice. Most times, the meal of the day was known as ‘soupy soup.’ ”
At times, the wardens would force Robert into a 35-gallon barrel for at least 30 minutes at a time to be unusually cruel. He said he would tell his captors he couldn’t fit into the barrel. It was made clear if he did not fit himself into the barrel, he would be killed, so he made himself fit into the barrel and sealed up in the unimaginable limited space no human should endure. The physical torture, combined with constant spiritual degradation, mixed with emotional turmoil, coupled with mental abuse, his captors again and again would toy with their American prisoners, telling them they would be released soon, giving them false hope as the months and years dragged on.
There were many times he faced serious health conditions that could have cost him his life, as well as having the hardship of losing many of his friends, but Bob, as he is known by close family and friends, kept with his faith, determined to live.
In the spring of 1953, after two years in a POW prison camp, PFC Calvillo was abruptly taken on an unknown journey. Robert thinks back to his release, saying, “They had all of us load up into their trucks. They drove miles and miles through the forests. I thought they’re going to shoot us, they had guns. When they would stop for a break, (they would be) surrounding us, I thought, ‘This is the end.”
The day came for his repatriation. Operation Big and Little Switch were in full operational swing repatriating Americans and UN members. Bob was transported to Freedom Village for his complete repatriation, where he received medical treatment, food, shower and fresh uniform. He then boarded a ship back to America with other troops and prisoners. Calvillo described his release into American custody as a lackluster affair.
After returning home, Cpl. Robert Calvillo soon separated from the Army, later attending the Academy of Art College. He met his wife, Carmine, at Kay Jewelers, where he worked in the display department. He owned a couple of businesses with his two younger brothers. He is a humble, talented artist and enjoys sketching and listening to big band music. He still enjoys spending time with his wife of 62 years, with his only child, Melissa, and son-in-law Greg Deal being actively involved in his life.
Robert Calvillo is a hero, having endured more than most soldiers being a captive of the enemy. Surviving against the odds of captivity, lack of clothing, food and shelter, and the basic necessities of survival, he made it back alive but forever scarred. He showed true stoicism during the interviews, sharing with me his horrible memories from more than 70 years ago as a Prisoner of War. Robert suffers from Post Traumatic Stress, at times, staring into the distance with quiet intensity as he told his horrible experiences, unable to hide back his emotions no matter how hard he tried to be in the present moment.
In September 2018, the Pentagon finally awarded Bob his long-deserved medals. His nephew, Corporal David Penaflor, presented Bob with five military medals, including the National Defense Service, Korean Service, United Nations, Prisoner of War, and Service medals (Korea).
Excerpts of interviews with Bob Calvillo were also contributed by David to place Bob’s story into the halls of perpetuity.

Article by S. Moncalieri, Gold Country Media. (Feb 26, 2025)
​Photo Credit: Courtesy

The NCOA Rogue Chapter hit the ground running in 2025 presenting NCOA Medallions at a number of events.

​University of Phoenix recently released the following announcement:

University of Phoenix is pleased to collaborate with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) to offer one (1) full tuition scholarship to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree.

NCOA is a federally-chartered non-profit established in 1960 to enhance the quality of life for Noncommissioned and Petty Officers in all branches of the Armed Forces, Military Retirees, Veterans, Spouses, and Survivors. NCOA proudly represents 17.9 million Enlisted Veterans and 1.8 million Active Duty Service Members and their family members, and advocates for their rights on Capitol Hill while promoting unity through education, benefits, and community support.

University of Phoenix understands the importance of making higher education highly accessible for students of all ages and backgrounds. We take very seriously our social responsibility to our students and the communities we serve. University of Phoenix is particularly adept at aiding non-traditional students complete their education by designing programs around their busy lives.

Through this scholarship program, one (1) full-tuition scholarship will be offered. This scholarship will allow a prospective student the opportunity to complete an undergraduate or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix.

The online application for this scholarship will be available on March 1.
​

Lady Vicky Hensley and SGM (Ret) Joseph Terry presented more than 70 NCOA War Medallions at the 38th Annual TET Reunion on Saturday, February 1, 2025,  in Abilene, Texas. The TET Reunion, originally established to commemorate the historic TET Offensive of the Vietnam War, has evolved into a celebration of all U.S. Veterans, regardless of branch or conflict. It’s a time for camaraderie, reflection, and appreciation, where Service Members from every generation can connect over shared experiences.

On January 31, 1968, the TET Offensive marked a significant moment in the Vietnam War. More than 70,000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces launched a large-scale attack on over 100 cities and towns across South Vietnam. Named after the Vietnamese New Year, known as “TET”, this event changed the course of the war and remains a defining moment in military history.

Whether you served in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other era, this event reunites all fellow Veterans and honors the sacrifices they made for our country.

A special thank you to Vicky Hensley, White Line Systems, and the Abilene Grunts Association for sponsoring the 70+ War Medallions. If you would like more information on our War Medallions, or would like to present one to a Veteran you know, visit the NCOA Medallion Program at: ncoausa.org/medallion-and-challenge-coin

NCOA Rogue chapter trustee Audie Cooper recently presented an NCOA Vietnam Medallion to Marine veteran Barry Leonard and a Korea War Medallion to Navy veteran Chuck Hewitt.​ 

NCOA Life Member 1SG(R) Sean L. Johnson presented an NCOA Vietnam War Medallion to SGT Tim Dupre, a blind veteran, during a church service in Vicksburg, MS. It was a very emotional moment because Mr. Dupre flew from San Francisco, CA, for a family event and the surprise presentation was part of it.

NCOA Life Member Eric W. Shumpert recently had the honor of recognizing Jim Compton, Air Force veteran, with the presentation of the NCOA Vietnam War Medallion while at the Sumter Masonic Lodge No. 364 Ancient Free Masons,   Mr. Compton noted that this was only the second time that he had been welcomed home. 

Rogue Chapter Chairman assisted by trustee David Haines presented a Vietnam Medallion to Army veteran Ronald Klopfer. 

In 7 years, the Rogue Chapter's VeteRun has raised and given away $131,850. This year the chapter raised $43,200 with the assistance of Tabitha Carlson who held a golf tournament focusing on Veteran suicide prevention and helping veterans, as a result we were able to present checks at our annual Christmas social in the amount of $14,400 each to David's Chair, Mighty Oaks Foundation and Operation Rambo.

Every year the gross amount earned has increased and the amount given to each charity has increased so our goal next year is to exceed $50,000. The 5K fun run usually happens in October, so plan to help us out next year.

Veterans and family members from 3 wars were presented NCOA medallions for their service in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. A huge thank you to CSM Edwin Sizer, USA (Ret), GEICO's Military Agency Operations Manager, for attending the presentations during the Fort Sam Houston Chapter's End of Year Christmas Social and to the NCOA Fort Sam Houston Chapter and GEICO Military for sponsoring the medallions!

Rogue Chapter member and member of the International Board of Directors Vicky Hensley recently presented a number of NCOA Korean and Vietnam War Medallions.

The Sunshine State Chapter #1683 recently presented an NCOA World War II medallion to World War II Army  veteran  John Ter Borg, who is in in-home hospice. John and his family were elated for this presentation.  Mr. Ter Borg exclaimed that he would never forget this moment!

had the honor of presenting It’s Veterans Day in cloudy Roseburg, OR, and the annual parade is an annual highlight in the town’s agenda of events.  Roseburg just experienced a flyover of twin F-15 Eagle Fighter jets from the 173rd Fighter Wing from Klamath Falls Air National Guard…and all action stopped and the crowd celebrated the awesome sight!  The local NCOA Umpqua Valley Chapter 1308 was on hand with a Legacy Medallion display to advertise NCOA’s program to seek and honor local veterans.  Located directly behind this display is the renowned Veterans Traveling Wall, sponsored by the local Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 805.  Pictured from right to left are Roger Arnold, Vice Chairman; Don Adams, and Ron Dukes, Chairman.  All are members of the Vietnam Veterans of America…a strong supporter of the NCOA’s Legacy Medallion program.  After the parade, Don Adams and Ron Dukes had the honor of presenting three Korean War Legacy Medallions at the Brookdale Care Center as family members and staff helped celebrate their military service.  (Photo by Cleta Yarbrough)

Three NCOA Medallions were presented to two deserving individuals during the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball with the Marine Corps League, Sumter Detachment 1202.

In the photo on the left, an NCOA Vietnam War Medallion was presented to Mr. Harry Thompson, a Vietnam Veteran and Purple Heart recipient (left). Mr. William Hartley (right) received both the NCOA World War II and Korean War Medallions for his service in both conflicts.

In the photo on the right, members of the Marine Corps League pause to enjoy some birthday cake.
  
A big thank you to Eric Shumpert, NCOA life member, for providing the photos and to the Marine Corps League Sumter Detachment for your efforts to get these small symbols of tremendous sacrifice and service around the necks of those who deserve them!

It’s a beautiful day in the Umpqua Valley at Roseburg, Oregon, as another Korean War veteran is presented the NCOA Korean War Legacy Medallion.  Pictured are the family and friends of past 82nd Airborne paratrooper, Jerry Fueston.  Making the presentation on behalf of the NCOA is Ron Dukes, Chairman of the NCOA Umpqua Valley Chapter and Honor Guard Chaplain for the Vietnam Veterans of American Chapter #805.

Rogue Chapter Chairman, assisted by chapter trustee David Haines, recently presented NCOA Medallions at a veteran's breakfast in Grants Pass, OR.

World War II Medallions​

The NCOA Medallion program in Roseburg, OR, was in full swing on a beautiful September Sunday afternoon at the Linus Oaks Retirement Home.  The NCOA Umpqua Valley Chapter #1308 and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #805 joined their efforts to present the WWII Legacy Medallion to Dick Stark (Navy Seaman 2nd Class) seated far right.  The Korean War Legacy Medallion was then presented (from right to left) to:  Don Newsom (Navy Reserve Seaman 1st Class); George Howse (Army SFC); Sam Coomer (Navy 3rd Class Metalsmith);  Ernest Farley (Air Force SMSgt and NCOA member); and Joe Cortez (Army SGT).  Standing behind the honored veterans are Ron Dukes, Chairman, Umpqua Valley Chapter #1308 and NCOA Member, Don Adams.  Both are also members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #805, which was instrumental in providing a substantial grant to aid in recognizing these veterans.  (Photo by Cleta Yarbrough).

NCOA Central Valley (#1551) and Spirit of Sacramento Auxiliary (#270) were invited to Francis "Buff" Bufkin's 100th birthday celebration on September 10. Buff is a WWII POW captured after jumping from his aircraft. He spent 13 months in captivity.

The community celebration had almost a hundred people come and share their stories with Buff and his daughter Mary Anne Beasley.  Look at all the cards and one made by a 3 year old (big blue one). Thank you Mike TeSelle for sharing this story of an American “doing his job!”  (TeSelle is an Emmy-award winning journalist who has been with KCRA 3 since 1998.)

​NCOA Umpqua Valley Chapter Chairman Ron Dukes recently presented a Korean War Legacy Medallion to former Marine First Sergeant Jim Barnett at his home.  Barnett - aka "Mr. Marine" - of Roseburg, Oregon, has an incredible collection of U.S. Marine Corps paraphernalia throughout his home.  Pictured is just a portion of his collection depicting the Korean War era.