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November-December 2025, From Veterans Day to the New Year: Celebrating 2025 and Defining 2026
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From Your Commandant
As we enter this joyous yet often reflective holiday season, I want to thank all our external partners and stakeholders for your unwavering support of our veterans and their families.
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Prayers, Support and Unity for our Fallen and Wounded
Amidst our holiday preparations, we were harshly reminded on December 13th that the willingness to personally sacrifice for our nation is at the core of the common bond of our community. It unites fellow veterans and our comrades actively serving.
With heavy hearts, we learned of the sudden loss of two brave Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, Sgt. William N. Howard of Marshalltown, and Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines, who were killed in combat while conducting a key leader engagement mission in support of the multi-national Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve in Syria.
Our deepest, heartfelt condolences and prayers for strength go to the families, friends, and teammates of these heroes. Their sacrifices are a powerful testament to the values of service and honor that bind us all.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure no survivor tries to navigate this difficult path alone. As fellow veterans, we are uniquely familiar with the realities of combat and the gravity of such loss. While this tragedy is a solemn reminder that the War on Terrorism continues, the need for you, and fellow men and women of their caliber has never been greater. We encourage everyone in this community to extend the unique empathy, understanding, and strength forged in our shared experience we know few others can comprehend.
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our community, committed to ensuring their families receive the respect, dignity, and support they deserve in this most difficult time.
Today, we honor the memory and sacrifice of Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torres-Tovar by sharing their names with a grateful state and nation... They were dedicated professionals and cherished members of our Guard family who represented the best of Iowa. Our focus now is providing unwavering support to their families through this unimaginable time and ensuring the legacy of these two heroes is never forgotten.
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November in Review: Gratitude and Milestones
November was defined by gratitude, especially on Veterans Day, where we honored those who gave up some of their own personal freedoms when making a decision to serve. We also celebrated the Iowa Veterans Home’s 138th birthday on December 1st, a milestone built on the commitment of citizens like those in Marshalltown who rallied to make the Home a reality in 1887.
I am personally grateful for the tremendous response to our Thanksgiving holiday dinner, which saw a record crowd of 239 family members and residents enjoy a meal together at the IVH. It is these moments of community and connection that truly define our mission.
As we look toward Christmas, we are committed to making this season the very best for those we serve. We are especially thankful for the generous donations—over $34,000 in November alone—that make our special holiday events possible.
Back to topLooking Ahead: Legislative Priorities
Dec. 4th the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs voted on the 2026 Legislative Priorities you see here. These will drive the commission's legislative efforts for the session starting in January. Please take these and share them with as many people as you can - especially your local leaders before they depart for the session - and join us January 21st for our Veterans Day on the Hill.
Your partnership helps us uphold access to benefits and the highest standard of care, ensuring our veterans are treated with the service, dignity, and respect they've earned.
Back to topDecember 13th: Wreaths Across America
December 13th also saw thousands of volunteers come together for Wreaths Across America. We are immensely grateful to everyone who participated in the ceremonies at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery near Des Moines and the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown. We can verify at least 400 vehicles at IVC alone, as the Knaack family upheld the legacy of former IDVA Executive Director Pat Palmersheim, and exceeded their wreath goal by almost 10 percent. The Patriot Guard Riders led the ceremony at IVH, and we are grateful for their help to keep that effort going.
In all, Wreaths Across America says more than 50 Iowa locations participated this year from Keokuk National Cemetery in Keokuk, to Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City, and dozens in between. This synchronized, nationwide effort ensures our fallen heroes are remembered by name, reminding us that no one who served is ever forgotten.
It remains an honor to serve.
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Upcoming Events
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Veterans Day on the Hill January 21st, Table Applications Open!
ICVA 2026 Legislative Initiatives
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is hosting its annual Veterans Day on the Hill Jan. 21st, 2026, 9 a.m. to noon.
This key event gathers veterans from across the state to meet with elected officials, advocate for state-level veteran initiatives, and hear from Iowa leadership.
WHAT: 2026 Iowa Veterans Day on the Hill
WHO:
- Senior Elected Leaders
- IDVA Commandant Todd Jacobus
- Key Legislative Leaders of Veterans Affairs Committees
- Iowa Commission on Veterans Affairs Leaders
- Iowa-connected Military Leaders
- Veterans and veteran service organizations from across Iowa
WHEN: Wednesday, January 21st, 2026
- 9:00 a.m. – Noon: Displays and Veteran Networking
- 11:00 a.m.: Official Ceremony and Speakers (approx. 30–45 minutes)
WHERE: State Capitol Rotunda
- 1007 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50319
WHY: Our annual event provides a crucial platform for Iowa's veteran community to present their collective voice and discuss the Veteran 2026 Legislative Initiatives directly with lawmakers at the start of the legislative session.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITY: Media is invited to attend and cover the speakers and the robust networking between veterans, service organizations, and legislators in the Capitol Rotunda. The full ceremony will also be broadcast state-wide and live-streamed on the IDVA Facebook page at facebook.com/IowaDepartmentofVeteransAffairs.
Veterans For Voting Needs YOU!
Iowa's veterans represent an exemplary cohort of individuals who have dedicated themselves to safeguarding the liberties and freedoms enjoyed by our nation's citizens.
Learn how YOU can keep serving through our Secretary of State's
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From the Hill
Legislative & Policy Focus: Upcoming 2026 Session
ICVA 2026 Legislative Initiatives
The Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs met on November 14th to establish its legislative priorities. They were approved Dec. 4th for the session begining on Jan. 12th. The top items include veteran-specific property tax relief and a continuing effort to ensure all Iowa veterans are fully aware of and receive the benefits they have earned.
In parallel, the IDVA has prefiled a bill to repeal Iowa Code 37A.1, concerning Veterans Commemorative Property. This 2006 law currently prevents the sale, trade, or transfer of property—even an urn, decoration, or badge—deemed "veteran's commemorative property" without IDVA authorization. The department argues the code is burdensome, requiring the Commandant to act as an adjudicator in private disputes over property rights, a role that rightfully belongs to the courts. Since IDVA has no record of any claims brought forth in the nearly two decades since the law passed, repealing it is a key focus for simplifying departmental duties and streamlining property rights issues for veterans and their families.
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Iowa Veterans Benefits Bureau & Cemetery Update
November was a period of high activity, featuring the celebrations of Veterans Day (November 11th) and Thanksgiving Day (November 25th).
The month began with a beautiful Veterans Day service at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, where Commandant Jacobus emceed the event. Governor Kim Reynolds addressed the crowd and signed a Proclamation at the Cemetery. Major General Stephen Osborn, The Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, served as the keynote speaker, discussing the history of Iowa's Soldiers and Airmen who have served both in-state and abroad. Special homage was paid to the more than 2,500 Soldiers from the Iowa National Guard currently deployed overseas.
The department also focused heavily on outreach and recognition across the state:
- On November 13th, staff attended the Van Buren County Veteran’s Service Supper, which drew over 200 Veterans, spouses, and support organizations. Information was shared from several groups, including the VA Medical Center, Iowa City, and Stop Soldier Suicide foundation.
- On November 15th, our Benefits Team brought the Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell to the Pocahontas County Veterans Outreach Event, providing a tabletop display with information on State and Federal Veteran Services.
- On November 25th, staff traveled north with the Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell for a special event honoring Sac City resident Orville Von Ehwegen. Orville, a 108-year-old World War II veteran, was awarded the Centenarian Award from the Department of Veterans Affairs. A former Truck Driver in the U.S. Army who served in the Philippines, Orville currently resides in the same house he has occupied for 75 years and had the honor of ringing the Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell.
- December 13th marked the annual Wreaths Across America event at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. We had at least 400 vehicles on site as the Knaack family did an amazing job upholding the legacy of former IDVA Director Pat Palmersheim.
We’re Hiring: Help Us Find Great Teammates!
The Iowa Veterans Home continues to recruit for key clinical positions. If you know a nurse, CNA/CMA, someone considering a career change, or just has a passion for veterans please refer them to our team! Nearly 25% of our nursing roles remain open—this is a great opportunity for compassionate professionals to make a meaningful impact.
Explore current openings:
👉Work at the Iowa Veterans Home
Click on “Check our CURRENT OPENINGS to see where YOU fit” to learn more.
Iowa Veterans Home Update
IVH Birthday: Celebrating 138 Years of Service: Iowa Veterans Home Birthday
The Iowa Veterans Home (IVH) celebrated its 138th Birthday on December 1, 2025! This milestone honors a legacy of service that began during the Civil War era.
Here is a look back at the origins of the IVH, which was initially established as the Iowa Soldiers Home:
- The Idea: Governor Samuel Kirkwood first proposed building a home for disabled Civil War Veterans from Iowa.
- The Competition: Seventy-five of Iowa's 99 counties competed to be the location for the Iowa Soldiers Home.
- The Commitment: Citizens in Marshalltown raised $30,000 to demonstrate their serious commitment to hosting the home4. In March 1886, the General Assembly appropriated $75,000 to purchase the land and an additional $25,000 to operate the Home during its first year.
- The Founding: Marshalltown was chosen as the site in the Spring of 1886. The main building was completed on November 30, 1887, and the very next day, December 1, 1887, Amos Fox of Livermore, Iowa, became the first resident.
- A Unique Concept: The original capacity was 200 Veterans. A pioneering step was taken in 1892 when cottages were constructed to be used by Veterans and their spouses, which was a very unique concept at the time.
This historical foundation continues to drive our mission today.
5-Star Rating Maintained: The IVH continues to maintain a 5-Star CMS rating (the highest possible) dating back to 2016, despite rigorous annual surveys by both the Iowa Department of Appeals Inspections & Licensing (DIAL) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office.
Recruiting is Still a Pressing Priority: IVH is actively focusing on staff recruitment through diverse outreach methods, including airing current employee testimonials on the local radio station, increasing social media presence for open positions, and hosting clinical nursing students in hopes of converting them into new hires. Recruitment and Retention is in the process of hiring a temporary employee to attend career fairs and assist with recruitment of staff. If you know anyone who may be interested, please direct them to our recruiting office or our recruiting page at https://dva.iowa.gov/veterans-home/work-iowa-veterans-home.
Emergency Planning: The IVH is working with Meskwaki Casino and tribal council to secure an evacuation shelter site for its residents in the event of a disaster.
Centenarian Award: WWII veteran Orville Von Ehwegen, a 108-year-old former Army Truck Driver who served in the Philippines, received the Centenarian Award from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Donations Summary
The IVH received a total of $34,342.85 in monetary donations during November 2025, in addition to numerous in-kind donations of items like cards, cookies, and personal care goods.
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OSINT Report: News & Analysis For Iowa Vets
BLUF: Bottom Line Up Front
Iowa and the national veteran community ended the Nov. 15th-Dec. 15th reporting period under a cloud of both sorrow and vigilence following a deadly enemy attack on a coalition mission in Syria on December 13th, that killed three and injured more. Two of those killed were Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, marking a tragic and painful reminder that the Global War on Terrorism continues. The attack drew the nation's attention back to a part of the world many Americans forgot the U.S. was still enganged in. Nationally, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) focused on major administrative relief, announcing they would relieve over $272 million in backlogged medical bills for community care. Congress passed the massive FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes a 4.2% increase in Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for 2026.
Line of Sight: Detailed News Analysis
I. Iowa News & Events (Local Focus)
The period concluded with the tragic news that overshadowed all other local events:
- National Guard Loss in Syria: On December 13th, two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, Sgt. William N. Howard, Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar and an interpreter were killed, and three others were wounded in an enemy attack in Palmyra, Syria, while supporting the ongoing counter-ISIS mission (Operation Inherent Resolve). This loss immediately shifted the state's focus to providing support to the bereaved families and the returning wounded service members. Governor Kim Reynolds and Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn confirmed the attack and expressed deepest condolences, emphasizing the state's unified support. Several state and national leaders echoed these sentiments and resolve.
- Veteran Homelessness Progress: The VA Central Iowa Health Care System announced they permanently housed 196 Veterans locally in Fiscal Year 2025, contributing to the VA's best national performance in seven years.
- Wreaths Across America: Before most became aware of the attack in Syria, December 13th was highlighted by annual Wreaths Across America ceremonies held across the state, including at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery and the Iowa Veterans Home, providing a powerful, unifying moment of remembrance and honor for Iowa's fallen heroes.
- Legislative Priorities: The Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs finalized its legislative priorities for 2026, which include strong support for property tax relief for disabled veterans (10%-90% rated) and others.
II. National News (U.S. Veteran Affairs & Legislation)
National focus was split between administrative relief and major defense legislation:
- $272 Million Medical Bill Relief: On November 20th, the VA announced it would relieve Veterans of over $272 million in potential medical bills related to community care copayments the administration says had accrued due to a prior administration's failure to process claims. This action provides immediate financial relief to thousands of veterans.
- Enhanced Care Access: The VA continued to streamline care, removing mandated referrals for gynecological care to improve access for women veterans and extending the eligibility for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) for certain legacy Veterans.
- SGLI/VGLI Changes: VA announced an amendment to the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Family SGLI, and Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) Accelerated Benefit Option regulation.
- FY 2026 NDAA: Congress passed the massive defense spending bill, the FY 2026 NDAA. Key provisions include a 4.2% increase in the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for active-duty members and robust funding for modernization and military infrastructure.
III. International News (Global Impact on U.S. Military/Veterans)
Geopolitical activity remained high, with the Iowa loss highlighting the continued operational tempo:
- Continued Counter-ISIS Operations: The attack that killed our Iowa Guard soldiers occurred during a key leader engagement in Palmyra, Syria, as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. This confirms the ongoing necessity and danger of U.S. counter-terrorism missions in the region.
- Africa and CENTCOM Deployments: High-tempo deployments continued, including airmen concluding deployments in East Africa and numerous operations across the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility.
- Caribbean Operations: U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) conducted Operation Southern Spear, focusing on counter-narco-terrorism, which included a lethal kinetic strike in international waters on December 4th. Multiple strikes on suspected criminal marine activity in South America has drawn polarizing criticism and support for the administration and Department of War.
Over the Horizon: Media Forecast
The next two months will be defined by the response to the recent tragedy and the implementation of major legislative and administrative changes.
- Iowa: Honoring the Fallen: The immediate focus will be on the Repatriation and Honors for the two fallen Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and providing long-term support to the families and the wounded. State officials and VSOs will mobilize community resources to ensure comprehensive care is available. IDVA has already extended offers of assistance through the Injured Veterans Grant to families.
- National VA: Healthcare Transformation: Following the administrative relief, the VA will push forward with key strategic initiatives, including the full deployment of the ambient AI scribe technology to improve efficiency in patient-provider conversations, and implementing the recent extension of community care authorizations to one year, which streamlines treatment for veterans.
- National Legislation: NDAA & BAH Implementation: The military and veteran financial community will focus on the implementation of the 2026 BAH increase and communicating the new housing allowances to service members and veterans utilizing housing benefits. Congressional oversight will begin on the wider spending initiatives within the FY 2026 NDAA.
OSINT Report
Get read in and get smart quick with this curated list of all news for Iowa Vets from 14 local to international sources focused on what you need to know, updated real-time.
Rumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Messages to navigate by
1. Confirming the Commitment
- Honoring their service: Our thoughts and prayers are with the famlies, friends and teammates of our killed and wounded Iowa Army National Guard soldiers on December 13th in Syria. IDVA is ready to offer support and assistance when the time comes. When it's time veterans can help by taking action to ensure no survivor - including each other - tries to deal with this tragedy alone.
- Promise Maintained: The federal Continuing Resolution guaranteed military pay stability and restored critical, suspended VA services.
- Iowa United: The IDVA and the state stand united in supporting the families of the fallen and the wounded.
2. Maximizing VA Compensation: Unlocking What We Earned
- Urgent Goal: While rankings can vary source to source, Iowa can significantly increase benefit utilization.
- Call to Action: We urge our entire veteran community to engage fully to maximize every eligible VA benefit and improve the quality of life our veterans have earned.
3. Staffing the Promise: Supporting IVH’s Capacity to Serve
- Critical Need: The Iowa Veterans Home (IVH) faces a high vacancy rate (23% to 37%) in licensed nursing staff (RNs, LPNs, CNAs).
- Top Priority: Filling these roles is the #1 priority to reduce the waiting list, use our full physical capacity to serve more veterans, and ensure optimal care standards.
- Community Assist: We request community partners help recruit quality individuals to join the IVH team.
4. State Action Now: Prioritizing Care and Financial Dignity
- Legislative Focus: The Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs 2026 legislative priorities focuses on state-level enhancements.
- Key Initiatives:
- Progressive Property Tax Relief based on veteran disability rating.
- Protecting Existing Programs & Benefits.
- CVSO Excellence: support efficiencies, innovation, incentives, and increased hours to help our CVSOs serve their veterans.
- Support Our Veteran Service Organizations: partial grants to maintain locations in downtown Des Moines and access to other agencies.
- Iowa Veterans Trust Fund Modernization: increase IVTF from $50 million to $75 million to maintain value of assistance in light of inflation and other support cost increases.
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