Columbus, Ohio – On November 10, the Ohio Department of Public Safety gathered at its headquarters to present the agency’s 2026 Military Service Award to five dedicated employees. The ceremony, held just before Veterans Day, underscored the department’s commitment to honoring the men and women who have served both in the armed forces and in public‑safety roles.
Veteran employees celebrated for dual service
Each of the honorees was recognized for distinguished military service and for their professional contributions to the department’s safety missions. The award reflects the department’s long‑standing tradition of valuing the unique sense of duty, leadership, and self‑less service that veterans bring to public‑safety work.
Department leadership praises the awardees
Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Benjamin Suver praised the recipients, saying, “Veterans bring a unique and invaluable sense of duty, leadership and selfless service to our organization and their dedication reflects the very best of our mission and our values.” He added that the department is proud to honor these individuals and grateful for the contributions of all veteran employees who continue to serve Ohio’s citizens through their daily work.
Statewide veteran workforce
The department currently employs roughly 600 military veterans out of a total workforce of nearly 4,000 employees. This sizable veteran presence highlights the agency’s focus on recruiting and retaining individuals whose experience in the armed forces translates into effective public‑safety leadership.
Keynote address by Ohio’s top election officials
Ohio Secretary of State and newly elected Auditor of State Frank LaRose delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of public service and the shared values that unite veterans and civilian employees alike. Representatives from the Franklin County Recorder’s Office also attended, offering assistance to veterans who needed to register or renew county‑issued Veteran ID cards.
Veterans Day context
The ceremony took place the day before Veterans Day, an annual observance that began on November 11, 1919, marking the first anniversary of the end of World War I. The holiday continues to provide a moment for reflection on the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Why the recognition matters
Honoring veteran employees reinforces the department’s mission to protect Ohio’s communities while also supporting the broader national tradition of respecting those who have defended the country. By publicly acknowledging these individuals, the department encourages other agencies to consider the benefits of hiring veterans and highlights the positive impact veteran employees have on public‑safety outcomes.
Looking ahead
As the department moves forward, officials say they will continue to spotlight veteran contributions and explore additional ways to support veteran employees, including professional development opportunities and community outreach programs. The recognition ceremony serves as a reminder that the values of duty, honor, and service remain central to Ohio’s public‑safety mission.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
