Our town: East County resident honored

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Lee F. Kichen was given a surprise recognition at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance luncheon honoring veterans and 9/11 victims last Wednesday. Rep. Greg Steube, with the help of Braden River VFW Post 12055, awarded Kichen the honor. Kichen received a standing ovation.

Steube thanked Kichen for his work with statewide veterans returning from war.

Kichen, who once worked in the Pentagon, dedicated the honor to the men and women who died on 9/11.

Currently, Kichen serves as chairman of the Sarasota National Cemetery Advisory Committee and is also a member of the Disabled American Veterans and American legion.

Contact Harriet Sokmensuer at [email protected].