News Summary

Coronado celebrates Rocky Spane, a distinguished naval aviator and community hero. His legacy spans athletics, military service, and a commitment to community, showcasing dedication and leadership in both the air and on the ground.

Coronado Celebrates the Legacy of Rocky Spane, a Local Hero

In the sun-kissed seaside city of Coronado, there’s a story that stands tall – the remarkable journey of a distinguished naval aviator and beloved community member, Rocky Spane. Born and raised in a military household, Rocky’s path was anything but ordinary. He spent his formative years shuffling around different homes due to his father’s service, moving seven times before finally calling Coronado home. This beautiful city, where he graduated from Coronado High School in 1985, has always held a special place in his heart.

A Champion Athlete and Founding Father of Lacrosse

While settling into his life in Coronado, Rocky didn’t just blend into the crowd; he became a standout athlete, showcasing his talents in multiple sports. Among his many accomplishments, he was one of the founders of the Coronado Islander Lacrosse program, igniting a passion for the sport that he carried into his college years at the University of San Diego, where he continued to shine on the field while majoring in business economics and minoring in physics.

From Student to Naval Officer

Rocky joined the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) while at USD, showing early signs of his commitment to military service. Graduating in 1990, he earned his commission as an ensign in the Navy, shortly after which he would also pursue an MBA to complement his military training.

Years of Daring Aviation

Over a distinguished career spanning 23 years, spanning both the Navy and the California Air National Guard, Rocky took to the skies in a staggering 12 different aircraft. His repertoire includes flying the F/A-18C/D and F/A-18E/F, as well as various C-130 models and even some military experimental aircraft. He began at VMFAT-101, mastering the F/A-18, and later soared through combat missions in Iraq during Operation Southern Watch with VFA-151. His skills led him to the elite TOPGUN program, an honor reserved for the best of the best.

A Return to Service After 9/11

In 2000, Rocky transitioned from military to commercial aviation with United Airlines, showing a different side of his talents. However, following the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, his sense of duty called him back to arms, and he flew with the California Air National Guard’s “Hollywood Guard.” Contributing significantly to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan in C-130E/J aircraft, he displayed formidable leadership skills as the commander of the 38th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron.

Life Beyond the Skies

After retiring from active duty in 2012, Rocky didn’t rest on his laurels; he took up a role as the F-35 country manager for Japan and Israel, while also founding his own real estate investment company. Today, he can be found flying 777s for United Airlines, proving that the sky remains the limit for this exceptional aviator.

Back in Coronado

Despite his extensive travels and accomplishments, Rocky returned to Coronado in 2017 with his wife, Kathleen, whom he married in 1995 at NAS North Island. They are dedicated to raising their son, Robby, a senior at Coronado High School. Kathleen, who is a teacher at Village Elementary School, and the Spane family remain actively involved in the community, demonstrating the values of service and connection that Rocky embodies.

A Legacy of Service and Dedication

As Rocky Spane continues to make his mark in both the air and his community, his story is a shining example of dedication, hard work, and a love for service. Not just a hero in uniform, but a beloved family man and community member, Rocky’s journey reminds us just how interconnected our lives are, creating legacies that enrich our towns and cities.