Our walk today was dedicated in honor of :
Navy Veteran Kenny Jary, Age 84 of St. Paul, MN.
Died May 16, 2026
Patriotic Kenny
Kenny surved in the US Navy from 1959 to 1965 aboard the USS Okinawa during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was deeply patriotic and passionate about supporting fellow veterans throughout his life. He served as the UAW Vice President at Ford Motor Company during his 32 year career in Highland Park.
In recent years, Kenny became widely known as “Patriotic Kenny,” touching millions through his humor, kindness, humility, patriotism, honesty, and love for people. He was also the founding president of the Patriotic Kenny Foundation, his nonprofit organization dedicated to ending isolation and restoring independence for veterans through mobility scooters.
Kenny will be remembered for his love of flags, contagious smile, humor, humility, and genuine heart.
It was a great honor to walk 5.90 Miles with Navy Veteran Kenny Jary. Our first stop was the Veteran Memorial Park down town. We then walked north and made a stop at the Crossville Centennial Park. We then headed over to the Elk’s Lodge 2751 where we was asked to talk about what our flag means to me. It was fitting that I was walking with Patriotic Kenny this day. I felt as though Kenny was right their with me. I want to thank everyone who honked, waved, and saluted in helping me honor this hero. We had 277 honks today. I also want to thank GM1 Matthew Austin for joining our walk and helping honor this hero today. It was amazing.
Navy Veteran Kenny Jary will not be forgotten !
