Tree Dedication Today for MIA

In remembrance of a native son who has been listed as missing in action for almost 30 years, the city of Thousand Oaks and the family of Air Force Capt. Eric Huberth will dedicate a tree in his honor.

At 9:30 a.m. today at Conejo Creek North Park, located at 1401 E. Janss Road, city officials, veterans and members of Huberth’s family and friends will dedicate the oak.

“It’s significant that we can dedicate this tree on Memorial Day,” said Mayor Mike Markey. “This is the day that we remember those who fought for our country and gave their lives for our freedom.”

The tree will replace one that was planted in 1973 at the old Thousand Oaks Civic Center on Hillcrest Drive. It died after falling victim to fungal and insect infestation.

Capt. Huberth was listed as missing after his jet was shot down over Cambodia in 1970. He was 25.

In 1964, he and his family moved to Thousand Oaks, where Huberth worked at the Giacapuzzi Dairy and later at Safeway grocery store on Moorpark Road while attending Cal State Northridge. He graduated in 1967.

Shortly thereafter, Huberth enlisted in the Air Force and became a pilot.

In January 1970, he was sent to Vietnam. Eight years after being shot down he was awarded the Air Medal with first and second oak leaf clusters, the Distinguished Flying Cross, a Purple Heart and Certificate of Honorable Service.