This special Veterans Day episode of the South Baltimore Now podcast from Southbmore.com features a conversation with Jon Dewar, a Marine Corps veteran, community advocate, and owner of Dewar General Contracting. Nate and Kevin sit down with Jon at Bodega and Vino in Locust Point—a veteran-owned business itself—to discuss his life, business, and extensive community involvement.
Discussion Highlights
Growing up in Baltimore: Jon shares his experience growing up in both Canton and Middle River, reflecting on the changes and growth of those neighborhoods.
Locust Point Life: He explains how he came to live in Locust Point, drawn in by his now-wife and the neighborhood's strong sense of community and volunteerism.
Marine Corps Service: Jon discusses his decision to enlist in the Marine Corps from 1998 to 2004, driven by a family tradition of military service, and the painful yet growth-filled experience.
Veterans Community: He highlights the special camaraderie among veterans in Baltimore, often seen picking up trash or teaching younger generations community values.
The Marine Corps League: Jon details the mission of the Marine Corps League Baltimore Detachment 565, which supports Marines and former Marines, and keeps the Corps' heritage alive. He also talks about the event hall and Marine Corps-specific museum housed in a repurposed firehouse.
Dewar General Contracting: As the owner of a South Baltimore-based business, Jon outlines the company's focus on major residential and commercial renovations, including additions, build-outs, and restaurant work. He emphasizes the company's commitment to customer relationships, quality, and being licensed and insured in multiple states (Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and pursuing North Carolina).
Community Advocacy: Jon shares his active pursuit of a volunteer seat on the Baltimore City Veterans Commission to advocate for veterans and act as a liaison to the city government.
Scottish Heritage: He is involved with the St. Andrew's Society of Baltimore, which promotes Scottish Americans and provides scholarships and parades, where he serves as the second vice.
Non-Profit Involvement: Jon discusses his involvement with organizations that help pets, explaining how volunteering with animals helped him transition back to civilian life after the military.
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