Delfin P. Dulay

United States Navy Petty Officer Delfin P. Dulay passed away on April 30, 2007 due to injuries he sustained while stationed in Guam.

Dulay was born and raised in Baguio City, Philippines alongside his sisters and brother. His father worked for the public highway systems while his mother was a government public servant. He loved biking, CB radio, hiking, and running. Dulay graduated college with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a stepping stone towards his childhood dream to pursue medicine and become a cardiologist. He and his wife, Joan, met at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado while attending a mutual friend’s party. The pair shared an instant connection and were married three months later.

With the desire to provide his family with a better future, Dulay enlisted in the US Navy in October of 1988. He loved being able to travel the world, obtain better opportunities and the chance to learn and succeed. As Dulay was a Desert Storm Veteran, he worked as a recruiter and Navy counselor when he was not deployed. Having been a silent warrior, Dulay did not tell stories regarding his work, however, many attest to his honorable service and mentorism. While stationed in Guam, Dulay and his team were returning from 1-week exercises. They had been attempting to repair one of the broiler machines, which had been having difficulties regulating temperature, when it exploded, forcing Dulay and his team to inhale very hot steam. Upon evacuating, he stayed back to ensure no one was left behind, causing him to inhale even more steam. Dulay was transported to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he was treated in the ICU Burn Unit for nearly six months. After a long, excruciating treatment, Dulay sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Joan currently resides in California with her two children. She loves to cook, garden, and travel. In the future, she is excited to spend more time with her children and have the opportunity to travel together more often. The donation of a mortgage-free home from Tunnel to Towers has answered Joan’s prayers of owning her home. The financial and mental stability and assurance are a gift. Joan would like to thank the medical workers who cared for her husband in Guam as well as at Brooke Army Medical Center, Father Jim, who gave her spiritual support, and her family and children who continue to give her strength.

United States Navy Petty Officer Delfin P. Dulay is survived by his loving wife, Joan, his two children, Johnerick and Keanu, his parents, his in laws, and his siblings, Doris, Jong and Beth.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Dulay family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.