phil osterli, director

Phil was born in Visalia, California (a second generation Californian) in August 1940, graduated from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy in January 1963, receiving an ROTC commission in the USAR. After a delay to attend graduate school, he entered active duty January 1, 1966. Upon completion of flight school was assigned to the 335 th Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam, serving as an armed helicopter pilot, aircraft commander, and platoon commander January 1-December 24, 1967, compiling 586 combat hours (195 missions), earning a DFC, Air Medal (20 OLC), ARCOM, Presidential and Meritorious Unit citations, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and Vietnam Service recognition.


After a year as a Tactics Instructor Pilot, he left active duty to return to graduate school at UC Davis, completing a Master of Science in Plant Genetics prior to accepting an academic position with the University of California Agricultural Extension, serving 16 years as a vegetable and row crop advisor, followed by another 16 years in administration; participating on committees and serving in leadership positions in the appropriate academic and professional societies/organizations, retiring after 32+ years of service in 2002, receiving Emeritus status. In 1969, he joined CALARNG part time (later USAR) serving in various flying, command and staff positions, retiring in 2000 at the rank of Colonel.


After retirement he and Linda moved to Poulsbo WA, cruising the Pacific Northwest in “Nordic Spirit”, and served as Commodore of Poulsbo Yacht Club, Trustee of Recreational Boaters of Washington, President of District 1 Blue Gavel, and Trustee of the Poulsbo Sons of Norway Lodge during their 18 years in residence.


He is a Life Member of DFCS, MOAA, VHPA, VFW, currently resides in SaddleBrooke, AZ and is an active member of the Charles M. Walling Chapter in Tucson and the Friday Pilots. He and Linda enjoy the active retired lifestyle as well as visiting family (6 kids, 14
grandkids) and friends scattered around the country.