2025 08 IDVA Newsletter August 2025 - PARADE EDITION!

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Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade Edition!

The 2025 Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade - IDVA's biggest single event - brought together approximately 1,700 participants

 across 83 entries in a powerful tribute to service, unity, and history. This year’s theme honored Iowa’s Vietnam War veterans as Grand Marshals in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration. According to the Des Moines Register, Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair drew 97,920 fairgoers this year, the third-highest Monday attendance on record.

Photos from the event are featured throughout this edition, and in local news coverage below.

Maj. Gen. Edward (Ed) J. Chrystal, Jr., Director for The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration in Washington, D.C., attended as a special guest and presented a 50th Anniversary Commemoration flag to Governor Kim Reynolds as an exclamation point on purpose of the celebration.

Rather than selecting a single representative, veteran leaders from the Vietnam generation asked to be honored collectively — a fitting tribute to the camaraderie that carried them through one of our nation’s most challenging eras. As Commandant Todd Jacobus noted in his remarks, the support today’s veterans enjoy is due in no small part to the resolve of those who served in Vietnam and their determination that future generations would never face the same homecoming they endured.

The reviewing stand hosted a distinguished lineup of guests, including Gov. Kim Reynolds, Lt. Governor Chris Cournoyer, Congressman Zach Nunn, The Adjutant General of Iowa MG Stephen Osborn, State Command Sergeant Major Matthew Strasser, Sponsor of the USS IOWA and former First Lady Christie Vilsack; and State Fair Queen Riah Schrage of Grundy County. Special guests from Washington, D.C., included Maj. Gen. Chrystal; representatives from the offices of Senator Chuck Grassley, Senator Joni Ernst, and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks; as well as members of Iowa’s  cabinet; leaders of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees; several state legislators, and commissioners of the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs.

Other honored guests included leaders from Iowa’s VA Health Care Systems, the USS Iowa (SSN 797) commanding officer, U.S. Navy Cmdr. Greg Coy, and Mr. Lanon Baccam, representing the Iowa Asian Alliance and Iowa’s Tai Dam, Vietnamese, Hmong, Cambodian, and Laotian communities. Baccam’s personal story — from his family’s escape from postwar Southeast Asia to his own service in the Iowa National Guard in Afghanistan — reflected the resilience and contributions of many Iowans who made the state their home after the war.

The parade featured honor guards, restored military vehicles, veteran service organizations, and community groups, all welcomed by enthusiastic applause from thousands of spectators. The event not only honored the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans, but also underscored Iowa’s enduring commitment to its veterans, their families, and all who have stood beside them in service.

The 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration concludes nationally on Veterans Day.

See Iowa News Coverage of the Parade!

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VFW Elects Carol Whitmore as New National Commander

The Iowa native is the first woman elected to lead the 125-year-old organization

From VFW Press Release

Watch or read Whitmore’s acceptance speech.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Carol Whitmore of Des Moines, Iowa, was elected Aug. 13th as the new national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), a congressionally chartered veterans service organization comprised of approximately 1 million eligible combat veterans and military service members from all six branches of the armed forces.

“Standing here today, surrounded by such incredible people — fellow veterans, families and friends — I am filled with a deep sense of pride and humility,” said Whitmore during her acceptance speech. “This is not just a recognition of me, but of all the men and women who have served in our armed forces.”

Whitmore’s election as the VFW’s 117th commander-in-chief occurred at the conclusion of the organization’s 126th National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. More than 10,000 members of the VFW and its Auxiliary converged on the city to conduct the business of the organization, recognize individuals and organizations for excellence and to elect new leadership for the 2025 – 2026 year.

Whitmore is the first woman elected to lead the more than 125-year-old organization. She delivered remarks to those attending in person at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and watching via livestreaming video.

“When I think back on my journey, I am sure it was just like many others — my reality is not necessarily the VFW reality,” said Whitmore. “But I was driven by a sense of duty, a desire to serve something greater than myself. And little did I know that decision would shape me in ways I could never have imagined.”

Read the whole story on the VFW page

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From Your Commandant

Gratitude for the Care You Provide

This month brought heartfelt reminders of the difference compassion and dedication make in the lives of residents, families, and colleagues.

One family expressed their “deepest gratitude for the extraordinary care and compassion” shown in their loved one’s final days, noting they were treated “not just as a patient, but as a person—someone with a story, a family, and a life worth honoring.”

Another family shared thanks for the kindness and care provided to both their loved one and their spouse, closing with a blessing for the health and safety of the staff and their families.

At a memorial service in Des Moines, the daughter of a longtime resident reflected on more than 10 years of care her father received. She expressed appreciation for the patience and understanding shown as the family made the difficult decision to begin hospice care, crediting the staff and hospice team for ensuring dignity and support during his final chapter.

In Memoriam
We were saddened by the recent passing of a member of our team. Though with us for only a short time, they quickly became a valued colleague whose contributions were deeply appreciated. Our thoughts are with their family and friends during this difficult time.

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2025 Employee Engagement Survey Results

The 2025 State of Iowa Employee Engagement Survey ran from July 14–25, with results delivered just three days later. We had a 55% participation rate—308 of 563 full-time staff. Initial review shows consistently strong ratings for the quality of care provided to veterans and their spouses. Leadership will review suggestions from the survey and explore ways to improve operational efficiency and staff satisfaction.

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Wall that Heals Visits IVH

IDVA was honored to provide the launch-point for The Wall that Heals travelling Vietnam War Memorial Aug. 5th. Led by local law enforcement, an Iowa Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopter that launch from IVH, more than 80 motorcycles and others left IVH to escort the Wall that Heals from Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, to Nevada, where it remained, open to the public from the 7th through the 10th. The Wall That Heals was open for viewing 24/7. 

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A Historic Visit – Governor Terry Branstad at IVH

On July 23, former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad visited IVH at my invitation. He spoke warmly about his roots in Forest City, his service as a U.S. Army Military Policeman, his career in public service, and his time as U.S. Ambassador to China. Governor Branstad shared fond memories of IVH and Commandant Jack Dack (1969–2002), answered resident questions for over an hour, enjoyed lunch in the Atha Dining Room, toured the facility, and concluded the day with ice cream in the Canteen.

It was a truly memorable day for our residents, staff, and guests—thank you to everyone who helped make the visit special.

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Remember Our Deployed

This month, we pause to recognize and support our fellow Iowans serving far from home. Members of the Iowa National Guard continue to answer the call, representing our state with professionalism, dedication, and a deep commitment to service.

On Saturday, August 16th, the community is invited to the 103d Expeditionary Sustainment Command Send-Off Ceremony at the West Des Moines Valley High School football field. This special event will honor the Soldiers and families as they prepare for deployment, and give Iowans a chance to gather in person to show our gratitude and wish them well.

Whether you have a personal connection to someone deploying or simply want to be part of a community that stands behind its service members, your presence makes a difference. Together, we can send them off with the support, pride, and encouragement they deserve.

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Staying Connected as a Team

I hope you feel that communication across our team is open and effective. If there’s more we can do, please let me know. We’ve built several channels to keep ideas and information flowing:

• The IDVA Extra: Updates for staff from Bureau Chiefs on developments impacting staff (1st of the month).
• Monthly IDVA Newsletter – Updates and items of interest for IDVA stakeholders, Iowa veterans, and their supporters including staff (15th of each month).
• Comment Boxes Around Campus: Submit anonymous suggestions directly to me. I respond monthly.
• Quarterly Executive Rounding: Kelley Oetker and Nathan Wilson visit work areas to hear directly from staff.
• Quarterly Town Halls: An open forum to exchange ideas with the Senior Leadership Team.
• IDVA & IVH Social Media: IVH social media informs family, friends and staff of IVH and our residents. IDVA social media focuses on Iowa veterans and supporters in general. 

If you have ideas to improve how we connect and communicate, please don’t hesitate to share.

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Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs Fall Quarterly Meeting

The ICVA Fall Quarterly Commision meeting is Oct. 1st. In preparation, legislative priorities for the 2026 session will be a major focus to get a running start for the 2026 Veterans Day on the Hill January 21st in the Capitol Rotunda. You can view the summer meeting by clicking on this image, or get the minutes when they're done on our Past Events Page. The Commission includes representatives from the American Legion, AMVETS, DAV, IACVS, IDVA, Iowa National Guard, MCL, PVA, VFW, VVA, an at-large public member, and the VA. These meetings help align efforts across the veteran services community. If you have ideas or recommendations for the Commission, please let us know.

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Government Relations Update

Legislative and Advocacy Updates
IVH continues to work with Iowa’s state and federal representatives on veteran-focused initiatives. Recent collaboration resolved a Social Security policy challenge impacting residents, improving access to essential services. Staff and residents also took part in community recognition events, including INDYCAR race outings and local veteran honor ceremonies.

We are grateful to Congressman Randy Feenstra’s office for assisting in resolving a recent challenge with the Social Security Administration. Policy changes had made it difficult for IVH residents to update their direct deposit information, but thanks to the Congressman’s team, residents can once again make these changes over the phone—restoring a vital convenience for our community.

A special thanks to the Tama County Pork Producers who visited IVH, serving up some of Iowa's best!

 

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OSINT for Vets: News Analysis & Takeaways

Coverage Period: July 15-August 15, 2025

Read Full Stories

BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Veterans are at the center of both celebration and contention. In Iowa, the narrative is overwhelmingly positive, focusing on recognition, milestones, and community engagement — especially around the Vietnam War anniversary. Nationally, the conversation includes serious policy debates and operational challenges facing the VA, with veterans often framed as key stakeholders in political discourse. Internationally, commemorations and humanitarian efforts extend Iowa’s veteran story beyond state and national borders. This dual track — honor and advocacy — positions veterans as both symbols of national heritage and participants in ongoing public policy debates.

Line of Sight

International

• Global Veteran Recognition & Commemoration: U.S. veterans are being honored internationally, including memorial events tied to WWII and Vietnam War anniversaries.

• Conflict & Policy Context: Coverage of U.S. veterans is sometimes tied to broader geopolitical events, e.g., Israel–Gaza war opinion polling 【WCF Courier – link](https://wcfcourier.com)】 and ongoing Ukrainian refugee resettlement in Iowa 【WQAD – link](https://www.wqad.com)】.

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National

• VA Workforce Shortages: Watchdog reports difficulty filling positions at VA hospitals, raising concerns about care capacity 【We Are Iowa – link](https://www.weareiowa.com)】.
• Union Contract Changes: VA is scaling back or terminating union agreements at some facilities, prompting criticism 【Star Tribune – link](https://www.startribune.com)】.

• Policy Changes Affecting Benefits: Proposed elimination of abortion coverage for veterans at VA facilities 【The Hill – link]

  (https://www.thehill.com)】; potential expansion of VA community care access 【NPR – link](https://www.npr.org)】.

• Veterans in Politics: Marine veteran Sen. Ruben Gallego’s Iowa visit gains national political attention 【NYT – link](https://www.nytimes.com)】.

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Iowa

• Vietnam Veterans Honored: Major coverage of Iowa State Fair Veterans Day Parade commemorating 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War 【KCCI – link](https://www.kcci.com)】, 【Des Moines Register – link](https://www.desmoinesregister.com)】.

• Community Veteran Support: Multiple local initiatives — from Quilts of Valor presentations to “The Wall That Heals” traveling memorial — spotlighting veteran service and sacrifice 【KCCI – link](https://www.kcci.com)】.
• Individual Veteran Stories: High-profile coverage of Iowa veteran Joedy VanVelzen completing Appalachian Trail 【WHO 13 – link](https://www.who13.com)】; WWII and centenarian veteran tributes 【KCRG – link](https://www.kcrg.com)】.
• Veteran Services & Resources: Employment fairs, nonprofit programs for housing and transportation, and state-level recognition of Home Base Iowa communities 【Bloomfield Democrat – link](https://www.bdemo.com)】.

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Rhumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Navigating Trending Themes & Narratives

International

• Veterans as part of diplomatic and cultural exchange through memorials and historical commemorations.
• Humanitarian links, including Iowa connections to refugee assistance.

National

• Strain on VA systems: staffing shortages, policy disputes, and union contract conflicts.
• Politicization of veterans’ issues, including reproductive health coverage and military voting blocs.
• Expansion vs. contraction debate over VA community care and benefits.

Iowa

• Heavy emphasis on Vietnam War 50th anniversary and public recognition at high-visibility events.
• Strong storytelling around individual veterans’ achievements and milestones.
• Grassroots and nonprofit-led veteran support in housing, employment, transportation, and memorial preservation.

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Over the Horizon: Media Forecast for Vets

International

• Continued coverage of WWII and Vietnam anniversary events abroad.
• Ongoing humanitarian stories tying Iowa veteran communities to global issues like refugee resettlement.

National

• Intensified scrutiny of VA operations — staffing, facility conditions, and union relations.
• Political campaigns using veteran issues to connect with voters ahead of 2026 midterms.
• Watch for legislative pushes on VA community care and benefit adjustments.

Iowa

• Sustained coverage of Iowa State Fair and related veteran recognition events into late August.
• Local feature stories highlighting individual veteran journeys and anniversaries.
• Expansion of grassroots veteran programs will keep community-based coverage strong, especially in rural and regional outlets.
• Read Full Stories

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Benefits & Cemetery Bureau Update

VA Topic of the Month – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Rates

What is SMC?
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is a higher rate of VA disability pay for veterans, spouses, surviving spouses, and parents with certain needs or disabilities. This additional benefit recognizes specific situations, such as the need for daily assistance, severe disabilities, or certain service-connected conditions.

SMC Payment Variations

Effective December 1, 2024

Level K – SMC-K

• Monthly Payment: $136.06
• How it Works: Added to your basic disability compensation rate (0–100%) or most other SMC rates. You may receive 1–3 SMC-K awards in addition to basic and other SMC rates.

Level Q – SMC-Q

• Monthly Payment: $67.00
• How it Works: A protected rate that has not been awarded since August 19, 1968. Paid in place of basic disability compensation if previously awarded.

 

SMC Basic Rates (Veterans Without Children)

Levels L through N

• Level L: Starts at $4,767.34/month (veteran alone)
• Level N: Up to $5,985.06/month (veteran alone)
• Rates increase for veterans with a spouse, parents, or both.
• Added Amounts: $195.92 if spouse receives Aid & Attendance (applies across these levels).

Levels N 1/2 through S

• Level N 1/2: $6,337.00/month (veteran alone)
• Level S: $4,288.45/month (veteran alone)
• Level R.2/T: Up to $10,964.66/month (veteran alone) for those needing higher-level daily assistance.

• Added Amounts: $195.92 if spouse receives Aid & Attendance (applies across these levels).

  

  IDVA

SMC Basic Rates (Veterans with Dependents, Including Children)

• Levels L through O cover specific disabilities and situations.
• Level R applies if you require daily help for basic needs (dressing, eating, bathing).
• Level S applies if you cannot leave your home due to service-connected disabilities.
• Additional amounts apply for multiple children or if a spouse receives Aid & Attendance.

Note on Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA):
By law, SMC rates are adjusted annually to match Social Security COLA changes, ensuring benefits keep pace with inflation. For the latest COLA details, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.

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Iowa Veterans Home Update

The Iowa Veterans Home (IVH) continues to advance its mission of providing exceptional care and services to Iowa’s veterans and their families.

Quality and Care Initiatives
Our most recent federal VA survey concluded with strong results, reflecting the dedication of our staff. A plan of correction has been submitted for review. Infection control leadership has been strengthened, and staff are encouraged to collaborate closely to maintain the highest standards.

Operational and Facility Improvements

IVH is progressing with multiple capital projects, including:

• Water infiltration solutions across campus
• Ulery household carpet replacement for improved cleanliness and durability
• Roof replacements at the Dack and Malloy buildings (scheduled for 2026)
• New transportation buses to enhance resident mobility
• Kitchen equipment upgrades to maintain high-quality food service

Technology and Innovation
The Bull communication system replacement is underway, and IDVA is evaluating the use of Google Gemini AI tools to streamline administrative processes while ensuring compliance with privacy and security standards.

Resident Programs and Recognition
The Nursing Department is preparing for the upcoming DAISY Award ceremony in September, honoring exceptional nursing care. Education programs, including CNA training, are ongoing. July celebrations and summer events—including Independence Day activities—were well attended and received positive feedback from residents and the community.

Community Engagement and Events

This month’s highlights include:

• The Tama County Picnic for residents and guests
• Participation in The Wall That Heals traveling exhibit in Nevada, Iowa
• State Fair theme meal and summer fair activities at IVH
• Trips to the Iowa State Fair and Marshalltown Speedway
• Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade, with a record number of entries and participants

Generosity in Action
In July, IVH received over $3,000 in donations of goods, services, and funds from veteran organizations, community groups, and individual supporters. These contributions directly enhance resident comfort and quality of life.

Looking Ahead
As national conversations on veteran affairs evolve, IVH remains committed to delivering compassionate care, fostering community partnerships, and serving as a trusted home for Iowa’s veterans. The months ahead will bring continued progress on facility improvements, program enhancements, and opportunities to honor the service and sacrifices of those in our care.

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July 2025 Superior Performance Recognition

We are proud to honor three exceptional team members for their dedication and service:

• Champion Award – Ashley Bringmann (CMA): Recognized for her willingness to adjust her schedule for resident safety, assist with training, and support colleagues across units. Ashley’s nominator described her as “kind, caring, devoted, and knowledgeable…a great role model.”
• Poppy Award – Nursing – Walter Bell (RTW): Celebrated for his dedication to Memory Care residents, often staying late or arriving early to ensure safe staffing levels, and for his ability to brighten residents’ days with humor and conversation.
• Poppy Award – Food Service – Cathy Zink (Cook 2): Honored for her skill, generosity, and long-standing commitment to residents and peers, from preparing special meals to bringing treats for staff and residents alike.

Congratulations to our award recipients, and thank you to everyone who submitted nominations this month.

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Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Stories

Iowa State Fair celebrates Vietnam veterans with parade; KCCI

Iowa State FairDay 5 of the Iowa State Fair: Veteran's Day parade, Lynyrd Skynyrd, weather and more; We are Iowa Local 5

Iowa State Fair Veterans Day: Commemorating 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War; We are Iowa Local 5

Iowa State Fair honors Vietnam veterans on 50th anniversary; We are Iowa Local 5

See all the sights from Monday at the Iowa State Fair 2025; DMR

Iowa State Fair honors Vietnam veterans 50 years later with parade; DMR

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Full News Stories from the OSINT Report

American Pride Slips to New Low: Pride among Democrats tumbles, while independents also hit new low, more than offsetting increase among Republicans; Gallup

What Americans think about Israel's military action in Gaza, according to a new Gallup poll; WCF Courier

TRICARE Authorizes Temporary Prescription Refill Waivers for Scott County, Iowa, due to Storm Damage; (DVIDS)

Wife of Marine Corps veteran released from ICE custody after advocacy from GOP Senator’s office; KWQC

Veterans Voices: ‘No way to ask for help’: Siouxland veteran spreads awareness, resources for suicide prevention; KCAU

Wounded vet confirmed to Veterans Affairs role as GOP slams Dems for slow-walking Trump picks; FoxNews

It’s official! Davis County is a Home Base Iowa community; Bloomfield Democrat

Iowa veteran makes it to Maine on Appalachian Trail; WHO TV

Former army vets trade combat boots for gardening shears: Sisters In Bloom QC to host grand opening; KWQC

D.C. Dispatch: Iowa lawmakers push water rule changes, judicial nominations; Iowa Capital Dispatch

RAGBRAI Riders On Mission For Veterans; KCAU

Lawmakers convene special hearing at veterans center to examine rural health care challenges; Stars & Stripes

Ratings system evaluates how veterans' charities use donations; KGAN

Mills County VA hosts annual Dog Days event; KETV

Congratulations to Deb Roe, Don Lewis, and the entire Veterans Mobile Food Pantry team!; Ottumwa Radio

QC Success Fair to assist veterans in job search; QC Buisiness 

Veteran Recognition Ceremony set for July 26 at Warren County Fair; Independent Advocate (Indianola)

Hello Iowa: Helping veterans unleash independence; WHO TV

Iowa veteran almost to 1900 mile mark on Appalachian Trail; WHO TV

Iowa Celebrates National Hire a Veteran Day; Iowa Workforce Development

This 71-year-old Air Force veteran will compete in pickleball at the National Senior Games in Des Moines; We Are The Mighty

Washington County Fair Quilts of Valor Presentation Recognizes 12 Veterans; SE Iowa Union

QC Veterans Outreach Center invites crafters to support local veterans; WQAD

Daughter of late Tuskegee Airman talks about her father's journey to becoming one of the first Black US military pilots; Herald Times Reporter (Oshkosh, WI)

Former Governor, Ambassador to China Terry Branstad visits Iowa Veterans Home; Marshalltown T-R

New candidate’s slogan: ‘Make America Iowa’; KTIV

Army blames showers left ‘wet after use’ for mold in barracks; Task & Purpose

100-year-old veteran reflects on serving in three wars; KCAU

IowaWORKS hosting veteran job fair in August; Our Quad Cities

Local Veterans Honored with 4-H Quilts of Valor; KCII

'It puts a smile on my face': Local veteran competes in National Veterans Wheelchair Games; KIMT

Veteran Flagpole Initiative installs displays along RAGBRAI route; KIMT

Iowa veteran celebrates 100th birthday with friends, family, and special tribute; KTVO

Board sanctions VA therapist fired for incompetence and ‘hostile’ conduct; Iowa Capitol Dispatch

3 men from different branches of military tied together with a piece of patriotism; KWQC

Quilts of Valor leave veterans covered in love; FD Messenger
We The People: Vietnam Veteran working with Cedar Rapids Community School District and homeless children; KCRG

Vietnam vet gives RAGBRAI riders crosses as they exercise the freedom he says he fought for; DMR

Veteran Flagpole Initiative honors veterans during RAGBRAI; KCCI

Partially-paralyzed Navy veteran underway in the RAGBRAI; KCRG

Jake Larson, a WWII veteran who became a TikTok star as 'Papa Jake', has died at 102; IPR

Nunn Advances Key Bipartisan Amendments in FY26 Defense Bill; Western Iowa Today

D-Day veteran and TikTok star 'Papa Jake' Larson dies at 102; We Are Iowa Local 5

VA to extend caregiver support program eligibility for “legacy” Veterans, caregivers; EIN Presswire

DeWitt nonprofit helping Ukrainian refugees make new lives in Iowa; WQAD

Iowa House Majority Leader Matt Windschitl campaigns for Iowa’s 4th congressional district; KCCI

Iowa WWII veteran celebrates 102nd birthday; WHO TV

Dog Days of Summer for Veterans Returns July 24th in Glenwood; KMALand Radio

First Person Civil War events presented July 20 at Dover Museum; SE Iowa Union

Tama County Veterans Affairs to host appreciation dinner July 25; Tama-Toledo News Chronicle

How Iowa's Congress members voted on Trump's $9B cuts to public broadcasting, foreign aid; DMR

Veteran sues feds after reportedly being detained at raid; The Center Square

U.S. Navy diver to ride RAGBRAI to help veterans become pilots; KCRG

Milford RAGBRAI: Honoring Veterans Before Historic Ride into Minnesota; NW Iowa Now

Forgotten Revolutionary War veteran added to Iowa memorial; Axios Des Moines

UI research funding advances health, science, community resilience; University of Iowa 

Iowa veterans invited to join State Fair parade honoring Vietnam War; KWWL

Omaha home renovation program helps veterans, first responders; WOW TV

Retired four-star veteran to speak at ’25 Siouxland Chamber Annual Dinner; KCAU

America’s oldest living Marine veteran to celebrate 105th birthday; KCRG

Army veteran and US citizen arrested in California immigration raid warns it could happen to anyone; We Are Iowa Local 5

Iowa veteran makes it to New Hampshire hiking Appalachian Trail; WHO TV

Wine Glass Painting Event to Benefit Veterans Museum; WCF Courier

Veterans Voices: ‘Rangers lead the Way’: How a deceased Siouxland veteran made an impact in WWII; KCAU

Health Chairwoman Dr. Miller-Meeks Leads Hearing on Lifesaving Role VA Community Care Doctors Have in Delivering Specialty Care to Veterans; U.S. House Committee on Veterans Affairs 

Honoring of local Veterans by Midwest Veterans of America includes oldest living Veterans and other special recognition ...; Waukon Standard

Army veteran, nursing school dean Kathy Dolter running for Congress against Ashley Hinson; DMR

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Future Iowa Vets in the News

Airman 1st Class Hattermann

Iowa Guard showcases field medical support at RAGBRAI

Water Treatment Specialists support RAGBRAI riders

Iowa National Guard soldier shows support along RAGBRAI route

Iowa National Guard supports RAGBRAI with water testing

Senior Airmen Brent Bott and Zack McLaughlin seek shade under an F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Iowa U.S. Air National Guard firefighters approach a fire in a simulated aircraft.

The slow shutter speed required for this night photograph blurs the air and ground crew members as they prepare to launch an F-16 Fight Falcon. (132nd Fighter Wing, Des Moines, Iowa).

Guests of honor pose for pictures at a special premiere screening of the Twentieth Century Fox film "Men of Honor." (Tilford, a photographer's mate and Navy diver from Lamoni, Iowa, met Brashear while attending Navy dive school nearly 10-years ago).

Airman Brian Nestby gives the thumbs up after a successful E-2C Hawkeye launch. (Nestby is from Dubuque, Iowa).

Iowa National Guard supports RAGBRAI 2025

Iowa National Guard’s 42 Romeo plays RAGBRAI main stage

CE pours concrete (185th Civil Engineering Squadron & 185th Air Refueling Wing)

U.S. Marines with HMH-461 insert 2nd LAAD (Lance Cpl. Joyce Kaleka, from Iowa)

KC-135s at the 185th ARW

Iowa National Guard aviation troops hold training at McCoy’s Young Air Assault Strip, South Post

Vandenberg Hosts NASA TRACERS Mission Brief (Dr. David Miles, Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites (TRACERS) principal investigator and University of Iowa astrophysicist).

Convoy at Fort McCoy: July 2025 training at Wisconsin's Total Force Training Center(411th Engineer Company of the 389th Engineer Battalion — which are Army Reserve engineer units based in Iowa.)

Iowa National Guard aviation unit wraps up Kosovo deployment

PCU John F. Kennedy OC Spray (Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Apprentice Paul Parnell, a native of Jefferson, Iowa)

Iowa Guard artillery fires opening round for RAGBRAI 2025

Iowa National Guard joins RAGBRAI 2025 opening ceremony in Orange City

RAGBRAI 2025 riders begin trek across Iowa

Iowa National Guard members ride in RAGBRAI 2025

Iowa Air Guard performs RAGBRAI flyover

2025 RAGBRAI Flyover

Employee Spotlight: Emma Aalbers- Regulatory Project Manager (Ankeny)

USS San Diego (LPD 22) Conducts Surface Operations during Exercise Talisman Sabre [Image 2 of 5] (U.S. Navy Seaman Abigail Bierma, from Des Moines, Iowa)

Banking on Wetlands: The Role of Mitigation Credits in Environmental Restoration

Red Rock Dam Undergoing Critical Gate Rehabilitation

Tylon Chapman Has Been Promoted to the Rank of Staff Sergeant-1

Offutt’s school liaison program supports military-connected families and student

s

 

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