Bo Tefu | California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom marked Veterans Day by granting pardons to five veterans. The governor’s directive included a posthumous pardon for Sergeant Richard Allen Penry, a Vietnam War Army veteran and Medal of Honor recipient from Petaluma.
Penry served the country during the war, faced challenges reentering civilian life and struggled with PTSD, leading to drug-related convictions.
Newsom acknowledged the veteran’s contributions and said Penry led by example through, “extraordinary heroism at the risk of his own life.”
Newsom’s action highlights his commitment to supporting veterans’ well-being and addressing mental health needs. While the Governor cannot pardon Penry outright due to multiple convictions, he has requested the California Supreme Court’s approval to proceed with the posthumous pardon.
The Governor emphasized clemency as a tool for criminal justice reform, promoting accountability, removing barriers to reintegration, and addressing the health needs of incarcerated individuals. A pardon can aid veterans in rejoining society by restoring rights, preventing deportation, and improving access to employment, though it does not erase convictions.
Newsom’s review process considers self-development, justice, and community impact, showing a compassionate approach toward veterans who have struggled post-service.
“A pardon grant recognizes the grantee’s self-development and accountability after conviction,” said Newsom’s office regarding the executive clemency.
However, the directive does not erase a conviction or seek to minimize the harm caused by the recipient, the office clarified.
Newsom granted clemency to five veterans with various criminal convictions, recognizing their honorable military service. The pardoned veterans include:
Don Archibald (Army), sentenced in 1966 for robbery.
Marcus Page (Marines), convicted in 1994 for controlled substance transport.
Robert Teagle (Army Ranger, Purple Heart and Silver Star recipient), convicted in 1981 for controlled substance transport.
Alex Zonn (Air Force), sentenced in 1970 for marijuana possession.
Brian Tinney (Navy), convicted in 1994 for grand theft and in 1996 for firearm possession.
These pardons highlight California’s support for veterans’ reintegration and rehabilitation. During his time in office, Newsom has issued a total of 186 pardons.
