Ohio National Guard News

Columbus – Col. Mark Bartman, 180th Fighter Wing Commander, presented the National Guard Association of the United States’ (NGAUS) Charles Dick Medal of Merit to State Representative Peter Ujvagi (D-Toledo) Friday, Aug. 14 at Lake Erie's Kelleys Island.

The award was presented in recognition of Ujvagi’s support of the National Guard, including legislative initiatives on behalf of Ohio’s veterans and their families, Bartman said.

Bartman presented the award to Ujvagi at "Operation: Military Kids" (OMK) Camp at Kelleys Island. The camp, a joint effort of OMK, Ohio 4-H Youth Development and the Ohio National Guard, supports kids of military members.

“Representative Ujvagi has recognized the need to help our soldiers and their families at a time when they are sacrificing so much.” said Bartman “We are proud to honor him with this award.”

Established in 1988, the Charles Dick Medal of Merit is named in honor of Maj. Gen. Charles Dick, a Congressman and U.S. Senator who was responsible for legislation that established the foundation of the modern National Guard. The award recognizes elected officials who have distinguished themselves over an extended period of time in support of the National Guard.

The Charles Dick Medal of Merit is a 2.5-inch gold-plated medal bearing the likeness of its namesake, who also served as a general in the Ohio National Guard and president of the National Guard Association from 1902 to 1909.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: http//www.ong.ohio.gov