Colonel (Retired) Larry Dietz, US Army (left) and Dr. Liz Dietz, EdD, RN (right) take a break at the Moffett Field Veterans Fair.
by Pooja Klebig
When Larry Dietz first walked into an American Red Cross meeting 25 years ago, he brought with him a lifetime of service, first to his country, then to his community. A decorated veteran with a distinguished career in psychological operations (PSYOP), military intelligence and law, Larry understood the power of communication and humanitarian principles. Today, as the recipient of the Red Cross Clara Barton Award, the highest honor for volunteer achievement at the chapter level, Larry’s legacy reflects both his military roots and his commitment to the Red Cross mission.
As we celebrate National Veterans and Military Family Month, we honor individuals like Larry who embody the values of service and resilience. Over the past two and half decades, Larry has held numerous leadership roles, shaping programs and mentoring volunteers across the Bay Area that covers 15 counties within the Northern California Coastal Region. His strategic insight and humor have earned him the nickname, “Jiminy Cricket” with the Communications team, guiding the team with strategic decisions and inspiring creative thinking.
“The honor of my Red Cross service, beginning in 1999, lies not just in responding to disasters such as floods, and fires, but in working with the people I serve with,” shared Larry. “Applying my military experience, marketing strategy and legal acumen to aid a team of truly good volunteers who want only to help the Red Cross accomplish its mission is a powerful, humbling and ultimately rewarding experience.”
Larry’s passion for writing and photography has amplified the Red Cross story, spotlighting the incredible work of volunteers and the communities we serve. His contributions extend beyond communications, however; alongside his wife Liz, a Red Cross volunteer of more than 40 years, Larry actively supports Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) programs, including military briefings and veteran engagement activities.
As an International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Expert Instructor, Larry leads courses such as Humanity in War, ensuring that humanitarian principles remain central during times of conflict. His dedication to education and advocacy reflects the same commitment he demonstrated throughout his military career.
Colonel (Retired) Larry Dietz, US Army at the 2023 Comms Volunteer Gratitude Gathering – Mountain View
Colonel (Retired) Larry Dietz, US Army (left) receiving his 2024 Clara Barton Leadership Award from Communications director Pooja Klebig (right).
“Because of his experience in the field, Larry is an expert instructor, allowing him to teach IHL curriculum at a high level,” said Nikki Rowe, regional director of the Service to the Armed Forces and International Services. This is key to providing in-depth education to those seeking to gain a deep understanding of the topic.
Larry’s leadership, mentorship and service remind us that the Red Cross mission thrives because of volunteers who give their time, talent and heart. Congratulations, Larry, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for continuing to serve, both in uniform and beyond.
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