COLUMBUS, Ohio – Two Mahoning Valley veterans are among the 2025 inductees into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.
U.S. Army veterans Kenneth J. David, a Trumbull County resident, and the late James “Jim” F. Kerr, who lived in Columbiana Columbiana, will be inducted during the 10 a.m. Nov. 6 ceremony at the Ohio State University Fawcett Center, 2400 Olentangy River Road.
They are among 20 inductees this year. The ceremony is open to the public and will be livestreamed by the Ohio Channel.
David, who is a Medal of Honor recipient, was serving in Vietnam when on May 7, 1970, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to protect wounded comrades, diverting hostile attention, engaging attackers and enabling medical evacuations. His actions saved lives. Since his 1971 discharge, he has devoted himself to serving veterans and his community. For more than 14 years, he has been adjutant/finance officer for DAV Chapter 11, publishing monthly newsletters, organizing food giveaways, homeless outreach and mobility aid deliveries. He is an active member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 606, leading food distributions, fundraisers and scholarship programs. He is also a member of VFW Post 3767, where he supports community fundraisers and veteran assistance programs.
Kerr devoted more than 50 years to education, conservation and community service after his military service. He taught biology and related sciences at Beaver Local High School in East Liverpool, Ohio, from 1971 to 2000. He also taught at Youngstown State University and East Ohio College. He served as science department chairman and was recognized as teacher of the year.
John C. Harris Jr., director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, will present honorees with medals.
The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame was established in 1992 by former Gov. George Voinovich to recognize outstanding professional achievement, service to the community and selfless acts of veterans following their military service.
Pictured at top: Kenneth J. David, left, and the late James “Jim” F. Kerr.