Scio native Mike Bowers named Veteran of the Month

Mike Bowers joined the U.S. Air Force just out of college, attended basic training in San Antonio, Texas, and worked his way up to the rank of staff sergeant. He has now been nominated as Veteran of the Month.

“There was a doctor in town here, Dr. Scott, who was a colonel in the Air Force, and he steered me to join,” Bowers said. “I wasn’t doing anything at the time. I had a two-year degree out of college, so I thought, why not?”

Bowers earned an associate degree in electronics.

A fourth-generation Scio native, Bowers said his grandfather operated a general store that was later taken over by his father. His father encouraged him to use his mind to make something of himself. The shop was located where the Scio Bakery now stands. While Bowers did not work in the store, he remembers spending time there with his father.

During his military service, Bowers did not deploy overseas but worked as a jet engine mechanic, spending most of his time in the tri-county area.

One of the most meaningful things he gained from the military, he said, was organization and perspective.

“There’s a lot that goes on at the legion,” Bowers said.

Bowers and his wife raised four children. His oldest child is 50 and his youngest is 23. He retired eight years ago after a 43-year career as a senior technician at Motorola.

Today, Bowers spends much of his time at the Scio American Legion, where fellow members describe him as the glue that holds everything together. He serves as finance officer and assists with numerous other duties.

“I’ve been at this legion for 55 years,” he said.

Bowers also serves as Harrison County commander, overseeing all American Legion posts in the county along with a board.

“We get the most satisfaction out of our charity work,” Bowers said. “Last year we donated $47,000 to local charities, and this year we’re going to exceed that. It stays pretty much local.”

He also helps administer the Americanism Test to students across Ohio. The test is designed to ensure students understand basic government functions and flag etiquette.

Bowers encourages young people to consider military service.

“First off, it builds character and gives you a sense of responsibility,” he said. “Plus there’s education. The benefits when you get out — medical and educational assistance, including help paying for college — it’s a good deal. It lets you get out and see the world beyond Harrison County.”

Bowers said his time in the military was a valuable experience. A lifelong hard worker, he said he has never taken a vacation, choosing instead to spend his free time working on his 80-acre farm.

He also encourages fellow veterans to join the American Legion and take part in the sense of community it provides.