Bob Ashton is a proud Oceanside High School class of 1978 graduate, whose family came to Oceanside in 1962. Growing up in this vibrant coastal town, Bob’s parents Ann and Tom created the opportunity for him to cultivate a deep love for the ocean.  He and his friends spent their youth surfing, diving, and exploring the beaches of Oceanside that helped shape his passion for the Ocean.

Following his formative years in Oceanside, Bob went on to serve an impressive 30-year career in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a Master Chief Submariner and Navy Diver. His service took him around the globe, but his heart always remained tied to the ocean and his hometown.  He and Amy returned home to Oceanside in 2018.

Now semi-retired, Bob is a small business owner and an active leader in the community. He joined the Save Oceanside Sand (SOS) team shortly after its formation in 2019, driven by a desire to give back to the coastal environment that inspired his life’s path. He launched the SOS Citizen Science program to engage residents in local research and advocacy and continues to champion education and community outreach.

Bob was appointed SOS Chief Executive Officer in January 2022 and elected President of the Board of Directors in January 2023. He lives in Oceanside’s Fire Mountain neighborhood with his wife, Amy, and remains a dedicated waterman committed to protecting and preserving Oceanside’s coastline for future generations.