14 minutes | Thursday, 30 October 2025
On this week’s Warrior Wednesday with Chad Ray on The Raider, meet Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Sal Garcia — a Jersey native whose career began with one unexpected ride to a recruiter’s office. From Newark, New Jersey, to Dover Air Force Base, Misawa, Japan, and finally Dyess AFB in Abilene, Sal’s 20-plus years in uniform took him around the world as a jet engine mechanic, flying crew chief, and later first sergeant guiding the next generation of airmen. He shares his early days turning wrenches on C-5s, snowy deployments to Japan, and lessons learned about leadership, resilience, and family. With humor and warmth, Sal talks about growing up a Marine’s son, serving through change, and the brotherhood that lasts long after the flight line goes quiet. And yes — he and Chad finally settle the debate over New York “dirty water dogs.” Because real strength deserves real recognition.