Cincinnatus was, in truth and legend, the personification of duty, honor and noble service. In the 5th century BC, the ancient city of Rome came under attack twice with defeat certain at the hands of invaders. In this most dire of times, Rome called upon this old soldier, now again a simple farmer, to lead her in defense of the enemy approaching the city gates. The consequences for Cincinnatus should he answer the call could mean the loss of his farm, the means to support his family. His family may starve in his absence. Should he be killed or maimed, his family would certainly be lost and destitute. And of course he could have said no. Who would blame him; after all he had served the republic as a soldier and senator and was content to now just live out his life as a farmer. Knowing this well, he chose to serve. Twice he was called upon to leave. And twice he left and twice he saved Rome. For his service and victory, he was offered the title and all the glory that went with it, The Dictator of Rome. And twice he refused to return to his farm. There is a statue of Cincinnatus in the Ohio city that bears his name of him with one hand outstretched returning the Fasces, the symbol of absolute power and his other hand on a plow, symbolizing his return to civilian life.
The Office of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Veterans Affairs Advisory Council, annually recognizes an individual who has carried the spirit of his/her military service into their community by the contribution of their time and talents. Like Cincinnatus, this individual will have served their nation and returned to civilian life to continue the spirit of service by working or volunteering in areas such as public education, veterans’ organizations and other community endeavors and projects.
In 2008 on Veterans Day, Michael Shepherd was awarded the very 1st Cincinnatus Award for his tireless efforts and devotion to community and campus. Michael has been a leader in projects such as the building of the YSU Veterans Plaza, a founding member of the YSU Armed Forces Association and the establishment of the Office of Veterans Affairs. His devotion to the Marine Corps League and their many community projects as well as being deeply involved with his church as an elder, Mike was a worthy honoree of the first Cincinnatus Award.