Butler County names Michael Barker its 2026 Veteran of the Year
The Air Force veteran was selected unanimously for his leadership in combat veteran pairing programs and his service with the VFW.
By Luca Harrison ·
Michael Barker, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, has been named the 2026 Butler County Veteran of the Year. The designation recognizes his ongoing work with local veteran organizations and his leadership in programs designed to support military service members returning from combat.
Mike Farmer, who heads the Butler County Veterans Service Office in Hamilton, confirmed that the Selection Committee chose Barker unanimously. Farmer cited Barker’s history of service through his roles with the West Chester VFW, Honor Flight Tri-State, and various other county initiatives. Barker was part of a group traveling on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday when the news was announced.
Barker served as a crew member on B-52 aircraft during his military career. After leaving the service, he focused on building a family and a career. He currently participates in several veteran support groups, including Honor Flight, the VFW, Butler County NANI, and Blue Star Families. His most recent focus is a program called the Combat Veterans Empowerment Team, or CVET.
The CVET program pairs younger combat veterans with senior veterans. The two travel together on trips to Washington, D.C., with the goal of connecting veterans who share experiences with combat trauma, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Barker stated that the pairs plan events together after the flights to maintain the connection. He described the process as restorative for both participants, noting that the exchange of knowledge goes in both directions.
Barker described the honor as unexpected. He said it feels good to see the recognition of work he views as helping veterans. He emphasized the impact of the Honor Flights, noting that they can help veterans come out of their shells and realize the support available in Southwest Ohio and the tri-state area. He stated that the events allow veterans to become more involved in their communities and with other service members.
Barker will be formally recognized at the Butler County Veterans Day Celebration. The event is presented by Atomic Data and is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10. It will take place at the Spooky Nook Sports Complex in Hamilton.
The selection highlights the specific contributions of local veterans to community organizations. The recognition is part of the county's annual effort to honor military service and continued civic engagement.
