U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville has selected Auburn resident and U.S. Navy Captain Doug Esposito to be his office’s May veteran of the month. The former pilot, who served 30 years in the military, has devoted his life to helping fellow veterans find academic assistance and, if needed, everyday necessities.
Tuberville (R-Auburn) believes that Esposito is the perfect example of dedication.
“In Alabama, we take a lot of pride in honoring and supporting the heroes who have served in our nation’s military. But it takes people who are dedicated to this mission 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. No one embodies this cause better than Captain Paul ‘Puck’ Esposito of Auburn, Alabama,” said the Senator.
Tuberville referenced the former Captain’s long and distinguished career in the Navy.
“The son of a World War II and Korean War veteran, Puck followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Navy in 1986. Puck spent 30 years in active duty as a Navy Aviator. From flying Grey helicopters, serving on an exchange tour with the Canadian Air Force, to spending eight years at sea—you name it, Puck did it,” Tuberville noted. “He was sent on nine long deployments and served in every theater the Navy has a presence in.”
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According to the lawmaker, Esposito is highly devoted to veterans and ensuring their well-being.
“His role at the Vets Resource Center has been an essential part of filling the gaps for Auburn student-veterans and military-affiliated students. Though the Center is largely focused on providing academic resources for its participants, Puck has taken a deeper approach. In addition to educational support, Puck and his team have worked to combat critical issues such as veteran suicide, food insecurity, and homelessness.”
Esposito is now helping to provide assistance to over 2,000 student veterans.
“Under the last decade of Puck’s leadership, Auburn’s Vets Resource Center has expanded from supporting 600 students to 2,100 currently,” Tuberville said. “They put on events like Project Iron Ruck and help Auburn recognize and honor veterans at many of the University’s athletic events.”
“We’re proud to now call Puck one of our own, and are grateful for all he does to support our veterans.”
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
