State Rep. Haraz N. Ghanbari Promoted to Commander in the United States Navy

COLUMBUS, OH— State Rep. Haraz N. Ghanbari (R-Perrysburg) was promoted to the rank of Commander in the United States Navy during a ceremony, Feb. 21, at CedarCreek Church in Perrysburg.

The ceremony was presided over by Rear Adm. W. Kent Davis, U.S. Navy (Retired) and attended by family, friends, members of the community, many elected officials, and first responders.

Ghanbari represents Ohio House District 75, which encompasses nearly all of Wood County. His promotion reflects more than two decades of military service, including prior service in the U.S. Army, where he served through the rank of Sergeant, and commissioned service in the U.S. Navy since 2009.

He is a Navy veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Inherent Resolve, and an Army veteran of Operation Joint Forge in Bosnia. His commitment to service members, veterans, and their families was further underscored in November 2018, when he was inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame as its youngest inductee ever.

“This promotion is deeply humbling, and I am grateful to be surrounded by so many people who have supported me throughout my journey in uniform and in public service,” Ghanbari said. “I’m thankful to Rear Admiral Davis for presiding over the ceremony, and to my family, friends, shipmates, and this community for their encouragement and support. It remains an honor and privilege to serve our country in the United States Navy and to serve the people of Wood County in the Ohio House.”

Saturday’s ceremony highlighted Ghanbari’s continued commitment to service — both in uniform and in elected office — and recognized a career marked by leadership, dedication, and a deep connection to the local community.

During session Wednesday, the Ohio House of Representatives recognized Ghanbari, with Speaker Matt Huffman (R–Lima) presenting him an Ohio flag flown over the Statehouse in honor of his promotion and inviting him to address his colleagues from the well of the House chamber.

“I was truly humbled and grateful to Speaker Huffman and my colleagues for this meaningful gesture," Ghanbari said. “A flag that flew above the Ohio Statehouse is a powerful reminder of the responsibility, and the privilege, of serving our state and our country, and it’s an honor I will always cherish."