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Army Veteran Spent 30 Years Serving His Country — And Never Stopped Serving Others

Leonard Lobel balanced Army service, family life and civilian work — and at 85, he's still making a difference.

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Patch and T-Mobile have partnered to spotlight the veterans whose service continues to strengthen our communities.
Patch and T-Mobile have partnered to spotlight the veterans whose service continues to strengthen our communities. (Courtesy of Susan Lobel Crawford)

Collegeville, PA — From their time in uniform to their everyday contributions in our neighborhoods, veterans embody service in so many forms. Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to share stories of veterans making a difference in the places we call home.

This story was shared by Susan Lobel Crawford, who nominated Army Colonel Leonard J. Lobel of Collegeville. To share your own message of gratitude, click here to answer a few questions and we'll take it from there.

Tell us about the veteran's service.

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My father, Colonel Leonard Lobel, dedicated three decades of his life to a distinguished career in the United States Army. His journey began with the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) at Temple University. Soon after, he wed my mother and was stationed in Killeen, Texas, where he continued his service and welcomed his first daughter. Two years later, he returned to Pennsylvania, where his family grew with the addition of another daughter (me). Balancing his military commitment with his familial responsibilities, he served in the reserves, fulfilling his duties every other weekend while also maintaining a full-time civilian career to support his family, and served on the Board of Directors for a mental health/substance abuse program. Colonel Lobel culminated his impressive military service in 1993, retiring as a full colonel and Post Commander of Camp Pedricktown, New Jersey, where he played a pivotal role in managing the logistics for Operation Desert Storm.

How do you know the veteran?

Colonel Lobel is my dad! He’s been a role model on service and leadership and loved very much!

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What makes the veteran someone your community should know about?

His continued service in his community and his leadership roles within his retirement community. At 85, he is still top of his game and living a full active life with my mom and traveling the world. He’s an avid photographer capturing amazing scenery and candids.

What three words best describe the veteran?

Strong, determined, leader.

Want to show your appreciation for a veteran in your community? We want to hear from you! Click here to answer a few questions, and your response could be featured on Patch.

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Related:Military Heroes

This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch Community Leaders, a Patch Brand Partner.

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