The agency hopes to recruit men and women who want to make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families while fostering a stronger sense of community. Volunteers will assist with events designed to honor veterans, create lasting memories and build a legacy of gratitude and support.

"Before we only went to Dayton, but now this is local," said Tamara Wilson, Executive Director of the Allen County Veterans Service Commission. "So, if they have an appointment out at one of the local medical facilities or one of the hospitals or something like that, if they need to go over to Findlay for an appointment, we'll get them there."

“Operation Cool Off” will take place on Saturday, Aug. 16, giving veterans of all ages and their immediate families free entry into the pool from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. With recent extreme temperatures, the event offers a refreshing and relaxing morning for those who served.

“We will be doing an honor escort from the American Legion to the fairgrounds that day,” said Tamara Wilson, executive director of the Allen County Veterans Service Commission. “We will have police and fire escorts that will lead us into the fairgrounds for our Veterans Day at the Allen County Fair, and we would like our community to participate and give our veterans of Allen County a proper welcome home.”

Lima City Schools broke ground on a new monument to honor alumni who have served in the military.