Happy 223rd Birthday Ohio !!

 March 1,1803, our great state of Ohio celebrated its 223rd birthday and the marking of it being the 17th state admitted to the Union of the United States of America.  

     Ohio was the first state carved out of the Northwest Territory but wasn't admitted until March 1, 1803.  The formal declaration was made in 1953 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower made his retroactive declaration.  This great state of Ohio has a big part in the nation's big event this year.  The 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.  

     Ohio has so much to offer.  We have some of the most beautiful and abundant parks, State Parks, lakes, waterfalls, and waterfronts for everybody's enjoyment and entertainment.  Ohio has 76 state parks to visit and explore.  

    Ohio had a huge network of canals, rivers, lakes, roads, and railways, making industry, inventions, and business profitable.  Ohio flourished during the World War II era for the demand for steel to make tanks, ships, and airplanes were needed. 

    Ohio had many industry first like, in Dayton, the brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright invented and flew the first airplane ever successfully.  Akron and Cleveland were leaders in rubber, steel, and oil, making these areas very crucial in industry and businesses.  A few other inventions from Ohio are the cash register in 1879 by James Ritty, the traffic light in 1923 by Garrett Morgan.  It is also said that the pop top can was also created here.  

     Ohio has been the birthplace of many of our presidents.  Presidents Grant, Hayes, Garfield, B. Harrison, McKinley, Taft, and Harding.  

    I could go on and on about our great state of Ohio.  While researching for some interesting things and places I learned so much and could probably write a novel with cool and amazing things to see, do and explore.  Do yourself a favor and check out some of these incredible places.  Happy 223rd Birthday, Ohio, you're the best !!

Ohio’s story is one of innovation, service, and leadership. It is also a state deeply connected to the men and women who have served our country.

At Ohio Western Reserve Ladies (OWRL), that spirit of service lives on through our mission of No Veteran Buried Alone at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. What began as a small group committed to ensuring that every veteran receives dignity and presence at their final salute has grown into the largest No Veteran Buried Alone initiative in the country.

Each year, hundreds of veterans are laid to rest without family present. Because of volunteers who answer the call, they are never alone.

If the history and pride of Ohio inspire you, consider becoming part of this mission. Whether attending Final Salutes, supporting families, or participating in one of our service projects, there is a place for you to serve.

To join the initiative or learn about upcoming service opportunities, visit our homepage and apply to become part of the mission.

Together, we continue Ohio’s long tradition of service — ensuring that every veteran is honored, remembered, and never buried alone.

Written by: Renee Lynn Kosik,

Treasurer, Ohio Western Reserve Ladies — No Veteran Buried Alone.

A founding member of OWRL, Renee’s commitment is deeply personal. Her father, brother, and father-in-law—all U.S. veterans—are interred at OWRNC. Serving with OWRL allows her to honor them while ensuring every veteran receives dignity, remembrance, and presence.