The Oregon Senate voted to unanimously approve a resolution recognizing Dick Tobiason for his dedication to helping and honoring Oregon veterans. Now that House Concurrent Resolution 202 has made it through both the House and the Senate, it will be sent to Gov. Tina Kotek’s office for final approval.

After serving in the U.S. Army for 20 years, including two tours in Vietnam, Tobiason retired as a lieutenant colonel and army master aviator. But Tobiason, now 89, was not content to sit in idle retirement, instead committing his time to advocating for fellow veterans.

In 2010, Tobiason founded the Bend Heroes foundation, an advocacy group that has established homelessness resources for veterans, created the Bend Heroes Memorial and worked to dedicate several Oregon and interstate highways to veterans.

“For years, Dick Tobiason has been a constant champion and driving force for Oregon veterans. He is the truest embodiment of selflessness and humility; the proof isn’t hard to find if you look up and down major highways throughout the U.S.,” said Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend. “Today, I’m glad we could finally recognize Dick for his selfless service.” 

Accolades

Deschutes County Commission honors service of retired Army veteran Dick Tobiason