COLUMBUS, Ohio—A crowd of family and friends filed into the large auditorium of the Franklin County Veterans Memorial Nov. 6 and rubbed shoulders with the senior leadership of the Ohio National Guard and their honored guests.
However, it was not Ohio’s highest-ranking Soldiers who had the spotlight, but the 20 inductees of the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Foundation, class of 2009.
The event, which followed the Columbus Veterans Day Parade, recognizes 20 inductees who are chosen annually from more than 100 applicants. And while America celebrates those veterans who have sacrificed for their country, the OVHFF honors those veterans who have not only sacrificed for their country, but who have made an exceptional effort to give back to back to their communities as well.
“The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame is a different hall of fame,” said Tim Espich, assistant director for the Ohio Department of Veteran Services. “The honor was created for service members who not only served their country, but who have come back to serve through their community or through professionalism.”
From more than 100 submissions, the selection committee cuts the field to 50 before choosing the top 20 to be sent to the Ohio governor for review and approval, Espich said. The selection process culminates close to Veterans Day.
“Veterans Day gives us veterans a chance to express our gratitude. When a person gives his life for his country, there is nothing more a person can give,” said retired Ohio Army National Guard Col. Cyril L. Sedlacko, one of 20 inductees to the OVHFF this year. “My brother Paul gave his life defending our great country. And honoring those who gave their lives, that’s what Veterans Day means to me.” |
Author’s note – The following is an excerpt from the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2009 Induction Ceremony program of the career and accomplishments of Cyril L. Sedlacko.
Cyril L. Sedlacko is a veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He is a member of the National Guard Association, AMVETS, the American Legion, the Catholic  War Veterans, the Disabled Americans Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the 37th Division Veterans Association. Mr. Sedlacko was instrumental in reviving the 37th Division Veterans Association that was nearly extinct. He currently serves as Secretary/Treasurer for the 37th DVA. The 37th Division has assisted widows and family members in ensuring military burial details are arranged and has aided in the reintegration of National Guard troops returning home from overseas deployments. He is a former volunteer with United Way Campaign and the Boy Scouts of America, Dan Beard Council, where he received the Appreciation Award. In May, 2004, Mr. Sedlacko arranged for 40 veterans of the 37th Division and 60 of their family members to attend the dedication of the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. |
