My father was a bright and determined young man. He was born in the Philippines.
He joined the United States Coast Guard when he was just nineteen.
My dad followed a dream of his as he made his way to the States,
God’s destiny of course fulfilled when his ship docked in Morro Bay.
A little beach town in California, with a mountainous rock to lend it fame,
This is where he met my mother. This is where I got my name.
My ambitious Filipino father learned to speak English all on his own,
A percentage of the money he made, he would seal up and send it back home.
Being the oldest son in his family, he took on this responsibility to bear,
To make sure that whatever money he made, he would send some home with care
When my dad was growing up you see they didn’t have much to eat.
He told of the many times when he didn’t even have shoes for his feet.
I have great respect for my dad for never forgetting from whence he came
I’ve decided to follow his example and humbly try and do the same.
Alberto Germino was also an excellent chef, and could cook just about anything.
Anyone who walked into his kitchen would find his or her mouths watering.
On December 2, 2001, my father left this world because it was his time to go,
I carry him within my heart, and I am very proud of the name Germino!