Brian Peacock receives his award from State Rep. Jennifer Wortz. Samantha Mandel | Collegian 

Hillsdale County honored retired U.S. Army Major Brian Peacock as Veteran of the Year at a Sept. 22 ceremony.

Peacock has been a member of the Jonesville American Legion for over 40 years and currently serves as the first vice commander of the Jonesville Post, according to Jenny Spahr, chair of the Veteran of the Year selection committee. 

“He is always giving back,” Spahr said.

Peacock serves the community by visiting veterans in care facilities, transporting them to VA hospitals, and being active in the Legion honor guard. He is also involved in volunteering for raffles and delivering Christmas packages to troops.

Peacock said he first became active in the Jonesville Legion after buying a raffle ticket and receiving a call from then-Commander Bob Snow. 

“He told me I had won a prize, and then he told me about the Jonesville Legion and invited me to stop by,” Peacock said. “I did stop by, and I was impressed with the number of members that attended, all the work that they did, all the help that they gave to other veterans, all the help they gave to the community. It was incredible. They made me feel at home. And I owe them for this honor.”

State Rep. Jennifer Wortz presented the award on behalf of the county. 

“Oftentimes, Vietnam veterans came home and were never recognized. They returned at a time when the country was divided,” Wortz said. “It’s not about debating the war — it’s about thanking these men and honoring them for the sacrifice and commitment they gave to our country.”

Wortz said Peacock’s life of service after the military was just as commendable.

“Like so many veterans, Brian came home, raised a family, and kept serving his community,” she said. “That’s what makes this award so meaningful.”

According to Spahr, Peacock has many interests outside of serving his community, including maintaining the family property, making maple syrup, reading, camping, and riding his Harley.

Peacock closed his speech by recognizing the families of veterans.

“Veteran families are often ignored,” he said. “They are the ones who suffer. They are the ones who miss their loved ones. They are the ones who support the veteran after they’re released from service. I owe so much to my family.”

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