Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County has introduced a new award program aimed at recognizing local veterans for their achievements following military service. The initiative, spearheaded by County Executive Samantha Kerkman, will present the inaugural Kenosha County Veteran of the Year Award. This announcement was made in a press release on March 27.

The first recipient of the Kenosha County Veteran of the Year Award will be honored during the Veterans Appreciation Picnic on May 30 at Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park. Nominations are open until April 30 at 5 p.m., and submissions can be made online or through the Kenosha County Veterans Service Office for those preferring a paper form. A selection committee, comprising County Executive Kerkman and staff from the Veterans Service Office, will choose the winner. All nominees will be notified of their nomination, while nominators have the option to remain anonymous. Eligible nominees must reside in Kenosha County.

According to Kerkman, "We’re excited to shine a spotlight on the remarkable veterans in our community." She encourages individuals who know an outstanding veteran to consider making a nomination.

Kenosha County’s Division of Veterans Services provides extensive support to veterans, their dependents, and survivors in obtaining benefits from both the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the State of Wisconsin. These services include assistance with disability compensation, pensions, education benefits, VA health care enrollment, burial benefits, and more. The office also helps with legal documents such as power of attorney and VA claims forms. Staff members advocate for veterans throughout the application process to ensure accuracy and timely submission.

Kenosha County is governed by elected officials including a county executive and a 23-member board of supervisors. Situated in southeastern Wisconsin, it borders Racine County, Lake Michigan, Illinois, and Walworth County. The county's mission is to enhance community well-being through efficient services that support residents and economic development. The county board represents districts with approximately 7,300 residents each and functions as the legislative body responsible for governance matters.