Steven Soso

Steven Soso grew up in San Francisco, California, surrounded by stories of bravery and camaraderie from his family. His father, a lieutenant colonel with a battlefield commission from World War II, fought from the beaches of Normandy to the Battle of the Bulge. Along with other family members who served in the war, Steven absorbed a deep appreciation for service and teamwork, which ultimately influenced his decision to join the military.
At the age of 17, Steven enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965, seeking both opportunity and a path to independence. He served for two years, including time in Vietnam, where his experiences shaped his understanding of resilience and adaptability.
Steven began his Navy career aboard a ship, working as a night baker. He described his role as relatively soft compared to others, enjoying the peace of the ship during the quiet nighttime hours. Along with two other crew members, he ensured that the ship’s crew was well-fed during their shifts. When the ship docked at port, Steven and his night crew often ventured out to explore and experience the local culture.

After his time at sea, Steven was stationed on a Marine base in Vietnam. Unlike the structured unit deployments of other branches, Navy personnel often arrived and departed individually, creating a less cohesive environment. Steven noted this as one of the challenges of serving in the Navy during the Vietnam War—it lacked the unity and shared training experiences of other military units. Despite this, he formed meaningful connections with those he worked alongside, sharing long days and finding ways to bond through their shared circumstances. Steven left the military in late 1967, returning to a country divided over the ongoing war. He recalls the stark contrast in reception compared to veterans of previous conflicts. Living on the West Coast during a time of social and political upheaval, he experienced hostility and indifference from the public. However, with the support of close friends and family, Steven focused on moving forward, determined not to dwell on the negativity.

He returned to college and pursued a degree in restaurant management, which led to his first post-military job in Hawaii. Working on the small island of Kauai, Steven enjoyed the beauty and tranquility of his surroundings, though the island’s limited opportunities eventually prompted him to return to the mainland.
Building on his education, Steven later transitioned into the burgeoning field of computer science, earning a degree in the discipline. He worked for several prominent companies in Silicon Valley, including Charles Schwab and Bank of America. His work in speech recognition technology was particularly groundbreaking, allowing users to conduct trades and access financial information through voice commands—a precursor to the sophisticated systems used today.

In retirement, Steven and his wife relocated to Florida, drawn by the warmth and familiarity of a place where her grandmother had lived. Their two sons and growing family, including three grandchildren and one more on the way, remain central to their lives. Steven finds joy in family gatherings and reflects on the values he learned from his military service—discipline, hard work, and the importance of self-reliance.

When asked what advice he would give to young people today, Steven emphasizes the importance of independence and personal responsibility. “Don’t count on your parents,” he says. “No one owes you anything. You have to make your own way.” This philosophy underscores his belief in the value of hard work and seizing opportunities, whether through military service or other pursuits.

Steven also credits the military with providing a strong foundation for life. While acknowledging the challenges, he highlights the skills, discipline, and sense of purpose gained through service. For Steven, the Navy was a stepping stone to a fulfilling career and a life defined by resilience and adaptability.

Steven’s commitment to mentorship extended beyond his time in uniform. As a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, he took pride in guiding a young boy who eventually joined the Army. Watching him grow into a responsible and successful adult was a source of immense satisfaction, reinforcing Steven’s belief in the power of mentorship and the importance of supporting the next generation.

Steven’s story reflects the broader experience of Vietnam veterans—men and women who served during a tumultuous time in history and often faced challenges upon returning home. Despite these obstacles, Steven built a life defined by hard work, adaptability, and a commitment to helping others. His reflections serve as a reminder of the enduring values instilled through military service and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.