Congratulations to former Henry County Commissioner David L. Kolbe as he is inducted into the Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2015 at 11 a.m. on Nov. 5 at the Lincoln Theater, 769 E. Long Street, in Columbus.

A native of Howard in Knox County, Dave served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. He trained to be a fire fighter and joined the Damascus Township Volunteer Fire Department. At age 33, Dave was elected as Damascus Township Trustee. He resigned his position as a volunteer fire fighter but he continued to support the Fire Department in other ways.

In 1988, he was elected as Henry County Commissioner. Dave worked with a non-profit to build the Henry County Veterans Memorial. He partnered with Bowling Green State University to develop an internship program to offer students the opportunity to gain experience in public service. In 1989, Dave served as commissioner to the American Legion Buckeye Boys State and taught classes on county government to attendants.

Dave has said on more than one occasion, “If you want to help a vet, help them get a job.” He works closely with Helmets to Hardhats, a non-profit organization that helps military service members transition back into civilian life by connecting them with career opportunities in the construction industry. Dave works nationally as the political and legislative director for the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers. He is a 40-year member of Iron Workers Local 55 in Toledo.

The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame was established in 1992 to recognize the post-military achievements of veterans in community service after their military service ended.

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