Huron Co. Veteran of the Year 'will continue to serve'

BELLEVUE — U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jim Ruffing learned about the importance of service from his father, Richard.

“My father was a World War II Army veteran. He told me, ‘One way or another, you’re going to have to serve your country. You can go with the Army or you can go with the Marine Corps. If you go with the Marine Corps, they are able to train their men better,’ so I chose the Marine Corps,” Ruffing said.

During the Veteran of the Year banquet on Dec. 3, Ruffing was named the 2022 Huron County Veteran of the Year. The other nominees were Kenneth Didion, Richard Kochel, and Diane Moyer.

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jim Ruffing and his wife Vickie are all smiles after the 2022 Huron County Veteran of the Year banquet. CARY ASHBY/HCVSO

Vickie Ruffing said the award means a lot because her husband works so hard.

“He’s the hardest working man I know,” she added.

With the Marine Corps League, Jim is the paymaster, past Marine of the year, and was awarded the Bull Dog award and Meritorious Merit Commendation. He is a coordinator for funeral details and honor guard units for area parades.

Ruffing also is the co-coordinator for the Huron and Erie County “Toys for Tots” campaign. He is the first vice commander at American Legion Post 547 in Monroeville, where he volunteers for fish frys, Friday night football games, parades and special events.

He has assisted with the distribution of food baskets for veterans during the holidays. He also has been an instrumental part of the fundraising for the Huron County Area Veterans Council.

“His drive and dedication is true to the spirit of being a great American,” according to his nomination.

Ruffing served in the Marines from 1968 through 1972. He enlisted after graduating from Monroeville High School in 1967.

“I served one year in Vietnam,” said Ruffing, who was a combat engineer. “Over in Vietnam I helped build bridges and helped build roads. We swept mines for rounds in the morning. … I never did much mine sweeping. I know other people who did and it was extremely dangerous.”

Ruffing was asked about the importance of serving his fellow veterans.

“Because there is a need out there for our veterans. Some are not able to help … and I’m able to do it, although I do have my health issues also. I continue to serve,” he said. “I will continue to work for my fellow veterans.”