Ohio Board of Nursing Director honors trailblazing Army veteran Holly Koester
Holly Koester, left, was honored by Ohio Board of Nursing Executive Director Marlene Anielski. (Submitted photo)
After a heartfelt induction into the 2024 class of the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame, Holly Koester – a United States Army veteran who made history as the first individual to complete a marathon in all 50 states from a wheelchair – was honored by Ohio Board of Nursing Executive Director Marlene Anielski.
Anielski presented Koester with commendations from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Congressman Max Miller. Koester’s remarkable achievement not only showcases her unyielding spirit and determination, but also serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and the indomitable human spirit.
The event was attended by community leaders, veterans and supporters, all gathering to celebrate Koester’s monumental accomplishments and to honor her service to the nation. Anielski commended Koester for her perseverance and courage, stating, “Captain Koester embodies the essence of resolute willpower. Her journey across all 50 states not only breaks barriers but also sends a powerful message to everyone: that with grit and passion, we can overcome any obstacle.”
Koester served as a Captain in the United States Army for 10 years until she sustained injuries in an accident during the Persian Gulf War. She has served as a newly injured spinal cord peer counselor at the Cleveland VA, a motivational speaker, a sports director and secretary of the Buckeye Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America, won six gold medals in the 2016 National Veterans Wheelchair Games and was inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame in 2017. She is currently a Walton Hill resident.
Anielski added, “Captain Koester inspires us to dream big, regardless of the challenges we face – and to do so with a dedication to service and gratitude. As she continues to advocate for veterans, we applaud her tenacity and welcome her as one of Ohio’s most valued athletes and role-models.“
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