James “Recon” Ryan of Peachtree City has been awarded the statewide Joe L. Smith Memorial Award as “Mr. VFW” for the 2013-2014 year.
The award is presented annually to a VFW member in Georgia who has served veterans, the VFW, and his community with singular distinction and excellence.
Ryan was recognized for his leadership and support of the Patriot’s Pen essay contest, the Citizenship Education Teacher’s Award, Buddy Poppy distribution, World War II recognition days for both WWII veterans and Korean War veterans, coordination and support of more than 1,100 veterans bricks at the city’s veterans monument at City Hall plaza.
Ryan is also known for his efforts of coordination and support for ceremonies during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, hospital and nursing home visits each month, attendance at veterans’ funerals, and maintaining post historical and personnel records.
Ryan is a WWII veteran who served both in the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army. He is a life member of Peachtree City VFW Post 9949.
