KENOSHA, Wis. — Vietnam War veteran Robert Dean Jensen has been named Kenosha’s 2026 second-quarter Hometown Hero, recognizing both his distinguished military service in the U.S. Navy and his decades of volunteer work benefiting veterans and the Kenosha community.
The honor is awarded through the Kenosha Hometown Heroes program, established in 2015 to recognize men and women who have served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces while demonstrating outstanding personal achievement and meaningful contributions to the community.
Jensen served in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve from 1965 to 1971, including service aboard the USS Duluth (LPD-6) during the Vietnam War. During two tours, he participated in numerous combat operations and amphibious landings. His military decorations include the Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, along with several additional unit and campaign awards.
Following his military service, Jensen remained committed to helping fellow veterans and serving the community. He has been an active member of Navy Club of Kenosha Ship 40 for eight years, serving as secretary, historian and photographer. He has also coordinated fundraising efforts, served on the club’s scholarship committee and participated annually in the Kenosha Civic Veterans Parade.
In 2023, Jensen participated in the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. In 2017, he shared his Vietnam War experiences with students at Harborside Academy. That presentation has since been added to the Library of Congress.
Jensen has also volunteered with Froedtert South and served in numerous roles at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He continues to lead the church’s Veterans Appreciation Weekend and serves on its Evangelism and Multimedia teams.
During Monday night’s Kenosha Common Council meeting, Jensen accepted the award.
“This has truly been an honor,” Jensen said. “As a Navy veteran, I feel very proud to be part of this growing Kenosha community.”
Mayor David Bogdala (R) praised Jensen during the presentation, calling him “an amazing individual” and “the embodiment of why this recognition was founded.”
“You are truly a Hometown Hero,” Bogdala said.
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2 Responses
Thank you Robert
Thank you Mr. Jensen. You are truly a hero.