A Burlington man who spent 25 years in the United States Air Force has been named the First Congressional District's 2026 Veteran of the Year. Congressman Bryan Steil presented the honor on Thursday to retired Senior Master Sergeant Shane Morris, recognizing both his military service and his continued work for veterans and the community.
Morris stayed active in service long after retiring. He volunteers with several organizations, including the American Legion, American Veterans (AMVETS), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).
According to Steil's office, Morris regularly visits hospitalized veterans, drives veterans who need help getting to medical appointments, and organizes fundraising efforts for veterans facing financial or personal hardships. His work has reached veterans throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
He has also helped keep military traditions alive, organizing the annual flag retirement ceremony for Essman-Schroeder American Legion Post 20, which gives worn American flags a respectful retirement. He has hosted that ceremony for the past six years, and this year's event retired about 10,000 flags.
Morris was nominated by Wisconsin residents and selected by the First Congressional District's Veterans Advisory Board. The annual award recognizes veterans whose service to their country continued, after leaving the military, with dedication to their communities.
