445 AES reservist named James M. Lendavic Veteran of the Year

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  • By 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Kotsko, 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron aeromedical technician, was selected by the City of Columbus Veterans Committee as the 2013 Inaugural James M. Lendavic Veteran of the Year. The presentation was made March 6.

Kotsko was nominated for the award by his civilian peers with the city of Columbus Fire Department where he serves as a firefighter, paramedic and hazardous material technician for Engine 26, BN5, 1 Unit. He's been with them for more than 16 years.

The Inaugural James M. Lendavic Veteran of the Year award is presented to a current city of Columbus employee who is a veteran or current member of the U.S. Armed Forces. It honors a city employee who has best exemplified the character, personal qualities, and service mindset displayed on a daily basis by Maj. James M. Lendavic. Major Lendavic was a former city employee, veterans committee member, and military member dedicated to assisting military members and veterans, fighting for their rights and benefits, and constantly searching for ways to recognize their service. He worked to assist veterans and provide support to current service members while recognizing the sacrifices made by them and their families. He passed away in 2008.

For the award, Kotsko was recognized for his many contributions not only with the city of Columbus Fire Department but also his contributions as a Reservist. He is a member of several organizations which benefit military members and their families, to include, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Air Force Sergeants Association and the City of Columbus Fire Local 67 Military Affairs. The sergeant is actively involved with the Ohio Fallen Heroes Memorial and its annual memorial ceremony. He also mentors and provides advice to young military families and individual members about deployments and unique circumstances military families' experience.

Kotsko is an active participant in local school programs. He's a well-known figure on Veterans Day in many of the schools. He spoke to more than 100 seniors at Kenton Ridge High School, Springfield, Ohio. He also spoke to more than 200 students at St. Patrick School, London, Ohio that same day. When unable to attend Veterans Day programs, Kotsko is still active representing military service. While deployed, he emailed an encouraging letter to Greenon High School, his alma mater, in Springfield, Ohio, that was read to the assembly during the ceremony.