From Ice to Iraq: The Life and Legacy of Chief Warrant Officer 3 John Paul San Nicolas

​Some people are born into service. For Chief Warrant Officer 3 John Paul San Nicolas, the military wasn’t just a career path—it was in his blood. Growing up as a military child, John was surrounded by relatives in uniform, most of whom served in the Army or Marine Corps. But he took his own route, choosing the United States Navy, drawn by its promise of technical training and opportunity.
“I didn’t have many expectations,” he admits. “Life at home was tough. I was ready to move forward and start over.”
With his family’s support and a fresh determination, John shipped out to his first command--VXE-6, the Antarctic Development Squadron Six. For six months at a time, including over the holidays, he deployed to Antarctica, launching his Navy career in one of the coldest, most isolated places on earth.
Initially training as an aircraft mechanic, John soon realized he needed a different path. Stuck in “1st LT” (a division for incoming sailors doing custodial duties), he was determined to find his place. That came through an unexpected opportunity: military photography. He jumped on it and never looked back—until life took another turn.
After a series of changes, John transitioned to Master-at-Arms—military police—a role he held for an impressive 24 years. His duties would take him all over the world: Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, Bahrain, Thailand, Kuwait, and many more. He was stationed in Japan, Guam, Italy, and California, and his naval assignments included ship visits to Vietnam, Cambodia, East Timor, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Singapore.
There were no shortage of challenges, but John points to two proud milestones in his career: his promotion to Chief Petty Officer and his commissioning as Chief Warrant Officer 3. "Those were defining moments," he says, “but what I value most is the people I served with, and watching them rise to leadership as Chiefs or Naval Officers. That means everything.”
But the military life came at a cost. "My greatest struggle was balancing work and family. If I could go back, I’d prioritize time with my loved ones more.” After 27 years of service, his transition to civilian life wasn't easy. He became a police officer but found that the bond shared among military personnel is hard to match. “In the Navy, teamwork is family work. That kind of connection just isn’t the same outside.”
John is now a disabled veteran, not yet rated 100% but working toward it. He receives medical care through the VA system, and while he’s had positive experiences, especially on the mainland, he notes that Guam’s limited healthcare options forced him to seek care elsewhere. His advice to other vets? “Be proactive. Have your paperwork in order, and seek out the right people to help you with your claim. No one knows what you’ve gone through but you.”
Despite the hardships, he reflects on his time in uniform with gratitude and humility. “I’ve been to places where people had nothing. When I hear people complain about small things, I just shake my head and thank God for what we have.”
Today, he still lives by a simple code: “Early is on time, and on time is late.” It’s a small reflection of a man who has dedicated his life to honor, discipline, and service.