Long-time Cincinnati VAMC volunteer named DAV-OH ‘Volunteer of the Year’
For nearly 70 years, Lorenzo Law, Air Force retiree and Cincinnati Veterans Affair Medical Center (VAMC) volunteer, has dedicated his life to our nation and its heroes, and on July 15, Law was recognized for his unwavering commitment.
While surrounded by medical center leaders, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Ohio representatives presented Law with an award for “outstanding volunteer services.”
“He joined the Air Force at 17 years old as a medic,” noted Jane Johnson, Cincinnati VA Executive Medical Center Director. Johnson recounted the different roles Law held in serving Veterans through the years including 42 years of employment in medicine at the Cincinnati VAMC plus four years, and counting, of volunteer service at the medical center. “He must’ve walked out the door [after retiring] and walked back in as a volunteer,” Johnson kidded.
During the award presentation, John Plahovinsak, DAV Department of Ohio Hospital Chairman, spoke of the long-standing partnership between DAV and Veterans Affairs Voluntary Services as one based on loyalty and commitment—a partnership continually demonstrated by Law. Following Plahovinsak’s remarks, former DAV Department of Ohio Hospital Chairman Ray Hutchinson presented the plaque to Law.
“The Disabled American Veterans Department of Ohio recognizes you for outstanding voluntary service provided at the Cincinnati VAMC,” Hutchinson recited. “Lorenzo sets the standard for all others. It’s a privilege and honor to present it to you… you deserve it.”
When asked about how he felt being recognized for such a distinct honor, Law said the acknowledgement makes him feel like a military general. “It just makes me feel great,” he said. “People recognize that we try to do the best we can; everything we can. The main thing is I enjoy helping my [Veterans]… feel comfortable to know that somebody cares. I do care and I’ve always cared because they’re important.”
For information about volunteer at, or donating to, the Cincinnati VAMC, visit Voluntary Services | VA Cincinnati Health Care | Veterans Affairs.