LANCASTER, Ohio – Two Fairfield County veterans were among 20 distinguished Ohioans welcomed into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame by Governor Mike DeWine during a Thursday ceremony in Columbus, as the state prepares to honor Veterans Day on November 11.
Don G. McDaniel (Marine Corps) and Robert P. “Lance” Meyer Jr. (Air Force), both of Fairfield County, joined inductees from 12 counties and all four military branches—Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines—in receiving the state’s highest honor for post-service leadership and community impact.“These veterans came home and kept serving—through mentorship, advocacy, and selfless leadership,” DeWine said. “Fairfield County should be proud of Don McDaniel and Lance Meyer. Their continued dedication strengthens our communities and inspires the next generation.”The 2025 class, ranging in age from 58 to 90, includes four Ohio National Guard members and three posthumous honorees. They join 994 veterans previously inducted since the Hall of Fame began.
Maj. Gen. (Ret.) John C. Harris Jr., director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, called the ceremony “one of the most enjoyable days of the year,” praising the inductees for their “laudable service and high character.”Brig. Gen. Matthew S. Woodruff, Ohio Adjutant General, added: “Ohio veterans don’t stop serving when they take off the uniform. These 20—including Fairfield County’s own—are making Ohio stronger every day.”Fairfield County Inductees:
- Don G. McDaniel – U.S. Marine Corps
- Robert P. “Lance” Meyer Jr. – U.S. Air Force
Full bios and past inductee information are available at OhioVets.gov.
The induction comes just days before Veterans Day, underscoring Ohio’s commitment to recognizing those who serve long after their military careers end.
