Carlson honored as UP Veteran of the Year | News, Sports, Jobs

U.S. Navy veteran Raymond Carlson shakes the hand of U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman, R-Watersmeet, during a ceremony Thursday at the U.P. State Fair honoring Carlson as Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year for his many community contributions. (R. R. Branstrom/Daily Press)

ESCANABA — Michigan Lt. Gov. Gilchrist recognized Raymond E. Carlson on Thursday for being named 2025 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year.

Carlson, of Negaunee, was honored during a ceremony at the U.P. State Fair in Escanaba attended by Gilchrist and other state and local dignitaries.

The Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year Committee announced Carlson’s award earlier this summer, recognizing his contributions to the veteran community and his unwavering commitment to service.

Carlson’s leadership of Michigan’s American Legion over the past two decades served as a focal point for his accomplishments. He’s had positions that included post commander, district commander, zone commander and served on the State Department Finance Committee, with extensive experience and dedication to his work securing his influence within the American Legion across Michigan.

Carlson has also successfully bid on and coordinated American Legion conventions for 14 years, leading to the success of the event in the U.P. during his time as president of the U.P. Convention Corporation. He’s secured future convention dates in Sault Ste. Marie through his work as well.

During his time as the commander for Post 44, Carlson was in charge of a $240,000 renovation project to enhance and revitalize the post. He also commits himself to social events sponsored by the post for community veterans such as bingo at the Marquette County Fair, bingo at the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti in Marquette and the Boys State initiatives that promote youth development and civic engagement.

Carlson’s youth work extends to the hours he coaches and fundraisers for youth sports. He served as coach of the Marquette Legion Blues baseball team for six years, leading the team to multiple district championships and the Fifth Zone championship in 1986 to earn their place in the state tournament. Twelve years of service as chairman of the District Baseball Committee included Carlson organizing and overseeing numerous tournaments, adding to his long list of services to the youth of the area.

“Carlson’s unwavering commitment to supporting veteran activities and youth initiatives has made a lasting impact on the community. His dedication and service are truly commendable,” the UPVYC stated in a news release.