Early Life, Education, and Military Career
Cook was born in Meriden, Connecticut in 1943. He was raised in Meriden and didn't permanently move to California until the end of his military career. In 1966, he graduated from Southern Connecticut State University, earning a B.S. in teaching. Late that year, he joined the United States Marine Corps. As an infantry officer, Cook served in the Vietnam War. He later earned an MPA from California State University, San Bernardino in 1996 and a master's in political science from University of California Riverside in 2000. Cook's military record spanned twenty-six years. His actions in combat earned him many honors, including the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He served in the Marine Corps for 26 years.
Read more about this topic: Paul Cook (politician)
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