First Kenosha County ‘Veteran of the Year’ Named; Award to Be Presented May 30

KENOSHA, Wis (WRJN) – Milt Dean, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime educator, has been named the inaugural Kenosha County Veteran of the Year, County Executive Samantha Kerkman announced.

Dean will receive the award at the Veterans Appreciation Summer Picnic, held at noon Friday, May 30, at Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park. The free event welcomes veterans and their families.

The new award honors veterans for their post-service achievements and community contributions. Dean’s 52 years of service include a 34-year teaching career at Prairie Lane Elementary School, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 1986. He remains active in youth sports and mentoring.

A prolific blood donor with a rare AB negative type, Dean has given more than 15 gallons of blood, often helping children in need. He is also involved in veterans’ organizations such as American Legion Post 21 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1865, coordinating Memorial Day and Veterans Day events.

“We received many outstanding nominations, but Milt’s dedication to veterans and youth stands out,” Kerkman said.

The picnic will be held at Veterans Honor Plaza, accessible via Karow Court off Highway F.

Free roundtrip transportation from Festival Foods, 3207 80th St., is available by contacting 262-605-6690 or Veterans.Services@kenoshacountywi.gov.