Army veteran recognized as Dearborn’s 2023 Veteran of the Year
The City of Dearborn and Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council (DAWVC) recognized the 2023 Dearborn Veteran of the Year: United States Army veteran David Kline.
Kline, who served in the U.S. Army for over a decade, was honored during Dearborn’s Veterans Day Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. in the Fordson High School Auditorium, 13800 Ford Rd.
Kline was chosen by a volunteer DAWVC selection committee for his years of service to the veteran community.
Kline stated, “The veteran community is a brotherhood for all veterans, and I am honored to be chosen by the DAWVC’s Veteran of the Year Selection Committee for this great privilege. I look forward to continuing to help and support veterans. In this role, I hope to help make others aware of the great support systems we have in place to truly be there for each other.”
Over the past decade, Kline has overseen the local veteran color guard in Dearborn. He is significantly involved in the southeast Michigan chapters of the Vietnam Veterans Association (VVA), the American Veterans Association (AVA), and other veterans organizations. Throughout the years, Kline has been responsible for planning and hosting veterans association activities and events, in addition to dedicating countless hours to other veteran-focused volunteer work.
Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud stated, “For decades, David has been involved in the betterment of veterans, veterans service organizations, and the Dearborn community. It is with profound gratitude that both the City and the Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council recognize his steadfast dedication to his fellow veterans. His contributions will live on for generations to come.”
The DAWVC has named and recognized a veteran as Dearborn Veteran of the Year since 1982. The program raises awareness of the significant volunteer efforts of local veterans and shows gratitude in a meaningful way through mentor, peer, and community recognition.
Rick Neveu, commander of the DAWVC stated, “Dave’s commitment to all veterans and the veteran community in Dearborn is commendable. The DAWVC is honored to recognize him for his outstanding service to the color guard and various veterans associations across the southeast Michigan region.”