Veterans Connection 06/24/2026

Through the support of our partners, MCVSC recently helped a Veteran family of four overcome a significant hurdle during their transition to the Dayton area. When the family relocated, they faced an initial struggle to secure permanent housing. While they were eventually able to rent a four-bedroom home, the house was entirely empty, leaving the family with no choice but to sleep on the floor.

To help the family settle into their new home, MCVSC facilitated assistance through one of our partners, New Life Furniture Bank. The bank provided a delivery of gently-used furniture, providing the family with the essential items needed to make their new house a functional home.

The family expressed sincere gratitude for the furniture, which provided much-needed stability during their relocation. This success story serves as a clear example of how MCVSC's partnerships provide practical, tangible support to veterans, helping them transition smoothly and build stability within our community.

In honor of our veterans, we are hosting a special concert event this July 3rd to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of those who have served our country. This event is a perfect way to kick off your Independence Day celebrations with community spirit and heartfelt gratitude. To support our local veterans, Montgomery County Veterans Services will be on-site to share information about their various services.

We are thrilled to announce that the evening will feature acclaimed Dayton native Eric Jerardi. A master of soul and storytelling, Jerardi’s music blends grit and grace, a style that has earned him national distribution and critical acclaim. Whether through his high-profile recordings or his intimate performances, Jerardi’s work is defined by a desire to truly connect with his audience. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy world-class music while standing in solidarity with our veteran community.

Veterans can now enjoy reduced rates when visiting Ohio's state parks. Following the Ohio Senate's unanimous passage of Senate Bill 223 and its subsequent signing by the Governor, the law provides direct benefits to the military community.

The legislation, sponsored by State Senator Tom Patton, aims to allow active-duty and retired military members to find respite in Ohio’s natural scenery. Under Senate Bill 223, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has established a discount program for all veterans and service members. The law mandates that the discount for all park services and rentals must be at least 25% off.

Eligibility and Documentation

To take advantage of these discounts, veterans and service members must present one of the following valid forms of documentation:

• An Ohio veteran ID card
• A U.S. Department of Defense authorized common access card
• A U.S. Department of Defense uniformed services identification and privilege card (DD form 1173)
• A U.S. Department of Defense issued next generation USID card
• A military annual pass or military lifetime pass (the national parks and federal recreational lands pass version)
• A Veteran Health Identification card 

The Montgomery County Veterans Service Commission encourages all local veterans to take advantage of these newly established state park benefits.

U.S. Representatives Mike Turner and Greg Landsman have introduced the Veterans Affairs Centennial and Heritage Act of 2024. This legislation seeks to formally codify the establishment of a VA History Office and a national center dedicated to the collection and preservation of historical records and artifacts from the VA and its predecessor organizations.

Dayton holds a significant place in VA history, as President Abraham Lincoln authorized the Dayton campus in 1865 as one of three national homes for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers. The campus, then known as the Central Branch, officially opened in 1867.

Rep. Turner stated that Dayton's history of innovation and military connection makes it the right home for this important effort. Rep. Landsman added that a permanent center would help connect future generations to the sacrifices and stories of those who served.

The proposed center would be housed through a federal enhanced use lease in several buildings on the Dayton VA campus. This legislative push builds upon previous efforts, including a 2020 VA initiative to establish a history office on the campus.

The act has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.