Guest Column from State Representative Ryan Smith: Preserving Ohio’s Military Legacy

Guest Column from State Representative Ryan Smith

Preserving Ohio’s Military Legacy

Throughout our nation’s history, Ohioans have served bravely in the military to protect our way of life here at home. Today, Ohio is home to more than 850,000 veterans, and we owe these remarkable individuals a great deal of gratitude. There is no better way to honor the sacrifices of members of the armed forces and their families than by preserving Ohio’s proud military tradition.

The Ohio History Connection, in coordination with the Ohio Department of Veterans Services and the Franklin County Veterans Services Commission, is requesting donations of military memorabilia from past and current members of the military and their families. Every service member has an important story to tell, and everyday objects of personal significance such as photographs, letters, and keepsakes go a long way toward preserving Ohio’s military history for future generations.

The Ohio History Connection is in particular need of items from the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and recent conflicts in the Persian Gulf, Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, they are looking for items related to the role of women in military service. The donated objects will be displayed at an exhibit in the new Ohio Veterans Memorial Museum being constructed in Columbus, or at one of more than fifty sites that the Ohio History Connection operates throughout the state.

As our state continues to thrive moving into the future, it is important that we remember the past. I encourage my constituents to contribute to this important initiative with the goal of preserving Ohio’s military legacy.

If you have questions about this program, I encourage you to contact the Ohio History Connection at 614-297-2535 or [email protected]. Additionally, you are always welcome to contact my office at (614) 466-2377 or [email protected] about this or any other state government related issue.