Ben Sanchez, a math teacher at Salida High School, has led an extraordinary life of travel, shaped by his time in the United States Merchant Marines. His journeys began during his service, where he spent 300 days at sea preparing for his license exam. These experiences set the stage for a lifetime of global exploration.
During his maritime career, Sanchez visited Dutch Harbor, Alaska and Puerto Rico, along with various cities in Japan, including Yokohama, Nagoya, Naha, Okinawa, and Kobe. He also traveled extensively to Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Hong Kong; and Singapore. Reflecting on his time at sea, Sanchez described the bonds he formed with people from different cultures as the most rewarding part of his travels. One of his most cherished memories was meeting the president of Japan’s largest lumber company. “Of all the things, we gave her a ski jacket,” Sanchez recalled, adding, “it’s the friendships and connections that I love the most.”
His professional endeavors frequently brought him back to Japan, particularly Hiroshima, for extended business trips. Japan became a standout destination for Sanchez, not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its people, culture, and culinary traditions. He admired the meticulous care Japanese chefs took in preparing meals, noting the cleanliness and attention to detail in their restaurants.
“The kindness and generosity of the people were unmatched,” he shared.
Sanchez also explored British Columbia, Canada and other corners of the world, but Japan remained his favorite. “The food, the culture and the people made my time there unforgettable,” he said. He emphasized how the hospitality and respect he encountered in Japan left a lasting impression on him, inspiring his appreciation for different cultures. Through his travels, Sanchez developed a deep appreciation for the connections he made along the way, underscoring that relationships and shared experiences matter more than the destinations themselves.
Now back in Salida, he brings his global perspective to the classroom, inspiring students not only in mathematics but also in understanding the broader world around them. Sanchez’s remarkable journey serves as a reminder of the value of cultural exchange and the lasting impact of kindness and connection across borders.