Jesse Galera Hendrickson

Jesse was born on June 3rd, 1986 in Honolulu, Hawaii at Tripler Naval Hospital as the second born child of Myrna Galera Lawler and Philip Jess Hendrickson Sr. He grew up in San Diego, California when his family was stationed there in 1988. Surrounded by beautiful coastal views, playing outdoors until the street lights came on Jesse had an amazing childhood. His interests along the way included playing games like Nintendo, riding his bike, and playing with lifelong neighbor kids. He was many things including a skateboarder, musician during his time playing the Octavina in the Mabuhay Rondalla, and having a wide range of friends for a fulfilling teenage life. Weekends were sometimes spent at the beach or going to church with his biological father where his faith began at Bethany Lutheran Church and he served as an alter boy. Jesse’s kind heart and wild spirit made for fun adventures with anyone who got to know him. He is remembered for his beautiful smile by many. Jesse honorably served his country in the United States Navy with distinction and dedication. On June 28, 2007, Jesse entered active duty in San Diego, California, and faithfully served for over 15 years, achieving the rank of Information Systems Technician First Class (IT1/E6).

Throughout his naval career, Jesse served with NSW Mission Support Center at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego. His expertise and commitment as an Information System Security Manager, Advanced Network Analyst, Tactical Support Communications Operator, and Global Command and Control System Administrator left a lasting impact on the Navy’s operational readiness and security.

Jesse completed numerous advanced trainings, including Journeyman Networking Core, Tactical Command Support System, and Information Systems Administration, while mentoring others as a leader and technical expert. He earned multiple commendations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (seven awards), the Good Conduct Medal (four awards), the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Letter of Commendation, among many others. His professional excellence was matched by his selfless commitment to his shipmates and the mission.

Jesse’s honorable service came to its conclusion on July 18, 2022, when he was discharged with honor, having completed all obligations with integrity and devotion to duty.

He will be remembered not only for his outstanding service to the nation but also for the kindness, strength, and loyalty he shared with all who knew him.

Jesse leaves behind five beloved children, Kadence, Oliver, April, Jacob, and Caleb. If you were to ask them who he was, with pride, they’d say that he was funny, caring, and willing to do anything to help them. Jesse, with a twinkle in his eyes, said he delighted in them. He was tender, nurturing, and intentional with the ultimate aim to teach them to know, love, and reflect Jesus. Jesse's love for them reflected God's unconditional love for His own children. He was the ideal father.

Jesse loved his wife, Khrystina, as Christ loved the church - sacrificially, faithfully, and unconditionally - stewarding her for God. They met on June 14, 2024, and after four excruciating months of waiting for the futile sake of certainty, Jesse and Khrystina got engaged and married on June, 26, 2025. He was loved by Khrystina more thoroughly than can be expressed.