Raymond Carlson, of American Legion Post 44 in Marquette, will be recognized as the Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year at the U.P. State Fair in August. (Courtesy photo)

MARQUETTE — A Marquette man has been named the 2025 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year and will be honored with a ceremony at the U.P. State Fair in August.

The Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year Committee announced Raymond E. Carlson’s award Thursday, recognizing his contributions to the veteran community and his unwavering commitment to service.

Carlson’s leadership in Michigan’s American Legion over the past two decades serves as a focal point for his accomplishments. He’s had positions that included post commander, district commander, zone commander and served on the State Department Finance Committee, with extensive experience and dedication to his work securing his influence within the American Legion across Michigan.

During his time as commander of the Richard M. Jopling American Legion Post 44 in Marquette, Carlson was in charge of a $240,000 renovation project to enhance and revitalize the post. He also commits himself to post-sponsored social events for community veterans, such as bingo at the Marquette County Fair, bingo at the Jacobetti Veterans Home in Marquette and Boys State initiatives that promote youth development and civic engagement.

Carlson’s youth engagement extends to the hours he coaches and raises funds for youth sports. He served as coach of the Marquette Legion Blues baseball team for six years, leading the team to multiple district championships and the Fifth Zone championship in 1986 to earn their place in the state tournament. Twelve years of service as chair of the District Baseball Committee included Carlson organizing and overseeing numerous tournaments, adding to his long list of services to the youth of the area.

Carlson has also successfully bid on and coordinated American Legion conventions for 14 years, leading to the success of the event in the U.P. during his time as president of the U.P. Convention Corporation. He’s also secured future convention dates in Sault Ste. Marie.

“Carlson’s unwavering commitment to supporting veteran activities and youth initiatives has made a lasting impact on the community. His dedication and service are truly commendable,” said the UPVYC in a news release.

The Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. Aug. 14 at the Upper Peninsula State Fair, 2401 N. 12th Ave. in Escanaba. More information about the fair and the venue for the ceremony can be found online on the Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year’s Facebook page.

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Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548, or alaforest@miningjournal.net.