1709 E. Prospect Rd, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004
OUTREACH INITIATIVES
MARCH 2026
Congratulations to our March 2026 Raffle Winner: Jack Walters
We’re honored to recognize Jack, who’s extraordinary 21 years of military service span multiple branches and missions around the world. Jack first served in the United States Army from 1986–1993, beginning as a Unit Supply Specialist before reclassifying as a diver. After graduating in 1989, he was stationed in Panama during Operation Just Cause, later returning to Fort Eustis and deploying as a diver in support of Operation Desert Storm. In 1994, Jack began a 28‑year civilian career at Albion Correctional Facility, retiring in November 2022. Encouraged by his fiancée, Jack returned to military service in 2006, enrolling in college and joining the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as a Motor Transport Operator. In 2008, he married his wife, Toka, in Conneautville, PA—and deployed that same year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as Field Artillery.
With 13 years toward retirement, Jack continued his service by reenlisting in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, first as a Vehicle Operator and later as an in‑Flight Refueler (Boom Operator). His extensive training included Basic Aircrew at Lackland AFB, S.E.R.E. in Spokane, and specialized refueling training in Altus, OK. Across his 21 years in uniform, Jack deployed to Lithuania, Guam (four times), Qatar (twice), Iraq, and Kandahar, Afghanistan.
This May, Jack and Toka will celebrate 18 years of marriage. He is a proud father of five—two sons who are Air Force veterans and three daughters, including one who also served. He’s excited to welcome his first grandchild in August 2026. In retirement, Jack enjoys spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.
Walt received a $25 gift certificate to Mary’s Diner in Geneva, donated by the American Legion, Post 125 of Geneva, two $25 Speedway Gas Cards, donated by the ELKS Lodge #208 of Ashtabula, one $100 VISA Gift Card, donated by the Vietnam Veterans of America, two $25 Giant Eagle Get/Go Gift Cards, donated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Geneva Post 6846, Auxiliary and one $35 valued Paver on the Veterans Service Commission’s Warrior Walk!
Upcoming 2026 Events
📅 January - November (Alternating Months) - VA Death Benefits Presentation
⏰ Time: 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
📍 Location: VSC Community Room (1709 E. Prospect Rd, Ashtabula, OH 44004)
Join us for an informative session on veterans’ death benefits. Learn about available resources, eligibility, and how to access support for your family.
Scheduled Dates:
✅ May 22 ✅ July 17 ✅ September 18 ✅November 27
📅 February - October 2026 - South County Benefit Assistance
⏰ Time: 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.
📍 Location: Andover Village Hall (134 Maple Ave, Andover, OH 44003)
Our team will be available to assist veterans and families with benefits questions and support services.
Scheduled Dates:
✅ May 28 ✅ June 25 ✅ July 30
✅ August 27 ✅ September 24 ✅ October 29
📅 February - April 2026 - AARP Tax Aide
⏰10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Location: VSC Community Room (1709 E. Prospect Rd, Ashtabula, OH 44004)
Certified AARP volunteers will provide free tax preparation assistance. Appointments are required — please call to schedule.
Scheduled Dates:
✅ April 7 ✅ April 14
📅 May 5 - Rite of Passage Ceremony
⏰Time: 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
📍 Location: Jefferson Area Senior High School (207 W. Mulberry St, Jefferson, OH 44047)
Join the Blue Star Mothers and the Ashtabula veteran community as we cheer on the incredible Class of 2026 seniors from across the county who have chosen to step forward and serve in the U.S. Armed Forces!
Let’s honor their commitment, applaud their bravery, and send them off with the pride of a grateful community!
📅 August 13 - Veterans Promise Ceremony
⏰Time: 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
📍 Location: Ashtabula County Fairgrounds (127 N Elm St, Jefferson, OH 44047)
Come celebrate the Ashtabula veteran community as we raise our right hands and once again swear our solemn promise to uphold our original oath of service in protection our family, friends and community.
📅 October 19 - October 23 - (THANKSGIVING) Holiday Gift Card Program
⏰Time: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (DAILY)
📍 Location: VSC Community Room (1709 E. Prospect Rd, Ashtabula, OH 44004)
Celebrate the season with our Holiday Gift Card Program. Eligible veterans and families may stop by during program hours to participate.
📅 November 5 - Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
⏰Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
📍 Location: Norman-D Banquet Center (2720 W 19th St, Ashtabula, OH 44004)
The Ashtabula community will come together to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Hosted by the Veterans Service Commission alongside Ashtabula Regional Medical Center, Foundations Health, Comfort Keepers, Bella Care Hospice, Carington Park, and Capital Health, this luncheon is a powerful tribute to those who have worn the uniform and continue to inspire us all.
CONTACT VETERANS SERVICE COMMISSION
VISIT US
1709 E. Prospect Road
Ashtabula, Ohio 44004
CALL US
Office: (440) 964-8324
Fax: (440) 964-3582
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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