It was only here in Bahrain that I got to know Joel (Commander Joel) approximately two years ago through the Fil-Am Association of Bahrain. Perhaps due to his down to earth personality and friendliness that made me, my wife - Fely and our daughter - Jennifer easily became close to him the first time we met. He treated me as an older brother and called me "Kuya" which made me feel respected by him. Every time we invite him to the house for a Fil-Am meeting or to have dinner, he would always bring a bottle of wine. He doesn't drink much because his face turns very red even before finishing his first glass of wine or sometimes beer. We treated him as member of our family and he feels comfortable with us. I can vividly remember his sitting position whenever we are eating in our kitchen table, one of his feet is rested on his chair and knees is bended close to his chest. After dinner, he would be setting in the sofa arms wrapped in sofa pillow and sometimes have both of his feet curled in the sofa sitting comfortably while watching television. Whenever, there is boxing match specially Manny Pacquiao or Nonito Donnaire fights he will be with us to watch the match. CDR Joel is very proud of his two children. I don't even know their names. In numerous occasion after eating we would start our conversation and he would always talk about his children's love of music playing violin and harp. He tells me they are pursuing music studies and he is doing his best to support them reach their chosen career. Commander Joel is very healthy conscious and always cautiously telling me to watch my diet. His word of wisdom is chosen in a way that I don't get offended to his advises as you can see why. He is very proud of his health and his involvement and participation in marathon races. I believe he was preparing for the next race before he left us. As a senior military Fil-Am member and adviser, he was always ready to provide the support. His contribution and assistance to the Fil-Am association is tremendous. He was generous not only providing monetary contributions but also actively participated to all the Fil-Am charitable events for the displaced Filipino overseas workers temporarily sheltered at the OWWA Women Shelter in the Philippine Embassy in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He supported the Fil-Am association fund raising events in the past 2 years. I know we will miss his company but I am happy knowing that he is now in the heavenly kingdom of our God. I am sure Joel's spirit is with us and he appreciates the memorial services for him. And I am also sure that his family in California and in the Philippines are also very thankful for the expression our love and respect to their departed love one, Commander Joel Francis D. Tiu.