Larry Peterson, a Vietnam combat veteran who led a yearslong capital campaign to bring an Honor Bell to the Pikes Peak region, was recently selected as the 2025 El Paso County Veteran of the Year. Peterson, who served in the Air Force from June 1970 to November 1974, said he was surprised and humbled when he learned of the honor. “I actually nominated another veteran for the award,” he said. “But it’s nice to be recognized.” The Veteran of the Year program recognizes a local veteran who has demonstrated “exceptional community involvement, and a lasting commitment to supporting fellow veterans,” according to the El Paso County website. To be considered for the award, a candidate has to be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, reside in El Paso County and have a demonstrated history of serving the community and supporting other veterans. Peterson, whose decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal, has always had an affinity for his fellow veterans.…