Hugue Byrne, a retired Marine Corps and Army National Guard veteran, Byrne is a noteworthy individual whose commitment to service inspires the entire Arizona veteran community.
Hugues Byrne’s service journey began in 1976 when he joined the United States Marine Corps. He embarked on a path to accumulate over 1600 flight hours in helicopter models and participate in numerous humanitarian missions worldwide. His military career was punctuated with acts of bravery, from delivering aid to the leprosy colony on Molokai Island to being part of the Malaysian straits blockade during the Iranian hostage crisis.
His experiences shaped his life after leaving the military and fostered a need to provide help for those in our communities who need it most.
“During the next 16 years, I raised two boys with my wife,” Byrne explains. “I started a transportation bus business for handicapped persons and a limousine and taxi business.”
But his dedication to service was far from over. In 2002, Hugues again answered the call and joined the Army National Guard. He was deployed to Bosnia and later Iraq, serving as a UH-60 Crew Chief for a medevac company. During these deployments, he displayed extraordinary courage and was awarded several honors for his actions.
After retiring from the Army National Guard in 2017, Hugues again transitioned to civilian life, but his spirit of service remained undiminished. He became an active Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) member, breathing new life into a failing post and becoming a thriving hub for veterans and their families.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hugues initiated the “Beat Covid” program, raising funds and delivering care packages to those in need in his community. He volunteered over 600 hours and managed a team of 15 volunteers, showcasing his tireless dedication.
Hugues has held various leadership roles within the VFW and is now serving as their Surgeon, an administrative function that interfaces with the veterans for their members who obtain medical support from the VA. He supports veterans’ hospitals and homes, ensuring their needs are met. Moreover, Hugues is involved in numerous veteran organizations, including the American Legion and the Marine Corps League. He’s volunteered for various projects like escort rides for fallen veterans and the Toys for Tots program, significantly impacting his community.
Hugues Byrne has been awarded the prestigious Gil La Montoya award for his extraordinary commitment to service and outstanding contributions to the veteran community. His dedication and selflessness inspire us all, reminding us that true heroes are among us, making the world a better place through their service and compassion.