The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will hold its November meeting on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Richardson-Bretz Building. In recognition of Veterans Day, the chapter is honored to welcome Karl Hagaman of Celina, Ohio, as its guest speaker. Hagaman currently serves as Commander of the Celina Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and as Chaplain for the VFW Department of Ohio, which oversees 283 posts statewide. A combat veteran of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Hagaman began his military journey at just 17 years old, attending basic training between his junior and senior years of high school with the consent of his parents, Karl Sr., a Vietnam veteran, and his mother, Rita.

Hagaman will share highlights of his recent visit to Washington, D.C., where he participated in several events honoring military veterans, including ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and the opening of the National Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial near the Lincoln Memorial. The historic dedication, marking 35 years since the conflict, brought together thousands of veterans to honor their fellow service members and reflect on their shared experiences. As Veterans Day approaches, the chapter invites the community to join this special afternoon of remembrance, history, and appreciation for the men and women who have served our country.