Garrett High School

Where Character Counts!

Edward S. Allen was a 1959 graduate of Garrett High School.  Mr. Allen has distinguished himself in his commitment to serving his country, the public, and his associates throughout his adult life.  

His dedication to duty, ingenuity and sound judgement was demonstrated through 20 years of service in the United States Air Force and his work on weapons development both in the Air Force and at Northrop Grumman Aerospace.  His continued work in improving software development processes for various California agencies has enhanced the efficiency of these State Agencies.  

His volunteer work teaching project management processes at Sacramento State University demonstrates proof of his dedication to serving others.  Mr. Allen's dedication to serving his country and the public has demonstrated credit upon himself and his country.

Steve Fike credits his GHS teachers Mr. Jack Bateman, Mr. Bill Linder and Mr. John Flores for his enthusiasm and lifelong interest in math and science.  Steve earned his BS from Indiana University and his PhD. in Physical Organic Chemistry from UC Berkeley.  Upon graduation, Steve joined US Customs as a chemist in San Francisco. After a few years became the Laboratory Director of the San Francisco Customs Laboratory which provides technical support for all Customs law enforcement operations in the Northwestern United States, Alaska and Hawaii.

Following early retirement, Steve started two very successful companies providing import/export support to several major companies focusing on the wine industry.

Edward Placencia was born on November 25, 1945.  He attended St. Joseph's Catholic School in Garrett.  He graduated from Garrett High School in 1964.  As an athlete, Ed boxed out of Garrett for the DeKalb County Boxing Club earning Indiana Golden Gloves Championships in 1963, 1964 and 1965.  He also fought in the National Tournament in Kansas City in 1965.  Ed later won the State Open AAU Tournament in 1976 and fought again in the National Tournament in Las Vegas in 1976.

Ed served in the United States Army from 1965-1968 and achieved the rank of Sergeant.  He was a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and saw combat as an Infantryman during his tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam in 1967.  During his tour Ed earned the Bronze Star with Valor Device, Silver Star and Purple Heart.  He also earned a CIB for his brave actions in the Battle for Hill 875 where he was a member of Company A, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry during the Battle of Dak To.  In November of 2016 Ed was inducted into the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame.  

Ed was the Commander of the Garrett American Legion from 2006-2016.  He is a lifetime member of the American Legion, VFW and DAV.  He continues to coach/mentor youth at the DeKalb County Boxing Club in Garrett, where he has had a positive impact on hundreds of youth.  He has spoken countless times over the years to many area High Schools about his Tour in Vietnam.