Sarasota Review

U.S. Representative Greg Steube has released a new interview as part of his Veterans History Project Series, highlighting the military service of Staff Sergeant Gerald Dombecki. Dombecki served in the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1993, with deployments to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq during Operation Desert Storm.

"Staff Sergeant Gerald Dombecki’s story reflects the strength, sacrifice, and resolve of our American servicemembers," said Rep. Steube. "From patrolling volatile regions overseas to navigating the long fight for care and recognition after returning home, his testimony is both inspiring and sobering. We are honored to preserve his service story for future generations."

In the interview, Dombecki shares his experiences as a Military Police Officer guarding nuclear weapons in Korea and serving in Desert Storm. He discusses challenges faced while reintegrating into civilian life and struggles with health issues recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"I’ve worked since I was 14. I didn’t want to stop working—I just couldn’t anymore," said Dombecki, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and COPD linked to his service but only recently acknowledged by the VA. "You shouldn’t have to fight so hard for something you earned."

Currently residing in Florida with his wife, Dombecki serves as a security liaison and advocates for fellow veterans navigating the VA system. His daughter continues their family tradition of military service in the U.S. Air Force.

The Office of Congressman Greg Steube will submit this interview to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center.

For more information on how residents in Florida's 17th Congressional district can participate or learn about VHP collections visit: https://steube.house.gov/services/vhp