Ohio DNR seeking ‘letters’ for war service members to mark trail

Columbus — As part of the America 250-Ohio Celebration, the Ohio DNR (ODNR) is seeking submissions of messages Ohio service members sent to their families and loved ones to be part of a new trail called the Letters to Home Trail. The trail will be constructed at Mohican State Forest near the Mohican Memorial Shrine, which honors the nearly 20,000 people who died in conflicts from World War ll to the present day.

“The Letters to Home Trail will be a space for reflection and will also highlight what service members felt and thought during these times of conflict,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “It’s important that these messages are shared with future generations to offer perspective and understanding to all.”

ODNR is planning a series of signs to be placed along the trail, sharing the meaningful words Ohio’s service men and women communicated home while serving in the United States military during times of conflict. The messages can be in the form of letters, emails, voicemails, and even text messages. Those interested in being part of the trail creation can share their message by visiting ODNR’s website and filling out a submission form.

“We want to share the stories of as many Ohio service members as possible with this new trail,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “As a parent with family in the military, I know how precious these messages are, and I believe this trail is a dedication of honor and patriotism.”

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The Letters to Home Trail will feature messages from the following conflicts: World War ll, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, Afghanistan War, Iraq War.

Submissions must include the name and rank of the service member, branch of service, unit/battalion designation, and hometown in Ohio. Those with questions regarding the submission form or the project can email Michael.Veres@dnr.ohio.gov for more information.

Submissions will be accepted now through Monday, Aug. 10. The Letters to Home Trail will be dedicated and open to the public in November 2026.