MONTEREY, Calif.--Walk into Compagno's, a deli hidden away on a non-descript street far from the tourist bustle of Cannery Row in this coastal city two hours south of San Francisco, and you will instantly be transported into one man's full-blown appreciation of all things military.
Located just a block from Monterey's Presidio, home to the world-famous Defense Language Institute, Compagno's has for years been the go-to lunch (and early dinner) spot for military personnel of all stripes. And though Bennett Compagno, the owner, never served in the armed forces himself, he has become what might be the best friend a soldier, Marine, sailor, or airman ever had in a civilian.
In return for his unerring friendliness, warm welcome, and tasty food, the servicemembers and officers who come here nearly every day while they're posted to Monterey have bestowed upon Compagno an awe-inspiring collection of mementos, mostly given to him when they leave Monterey for their next duties.
From drill sergeant hats to signed photos to combat knives, members of the Marines, Air Force, Army, and Navy have made it clear that Compagno is their friend.
This is a combat knife given to Compagno by Master Gunny Sergeant Mike Dobbs with the inscription, "For your continual friendship and support to my Marines."
While in town for other stories related to Road Trip 2012, CNET reporter Daniel Terdiman discovered Compagno's, and realized that the store, what it contains, and its owner, were worth a story of their own.
