IDVA Newsletter Jun 2025

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From Your Commandant: Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans, 50th Anniversary Commemoration
Free Screening of From Iowa and Back: The Vietnam Era at Prairie Meadows July 8th, 6 p.m.
Sendoff Ceremonies for the Iowa Army National Guard
New Disabled Veteran Plates: Update on PWD Designation
Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade Entry Applications Available
From the Hill: 2025 Legislation Update

OSINT For Vets: News Analysis & Takeaways
News Issue Summaries
Benefits and Cemetery Bureau
Iowa Veterans Home Monthly Update
Recognizing Excellence – May 2025 Awards
All News Stories

From Your Commandant: Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans, 50th Anniversary Commemoration

Commandant Jacobus speaks on Memorial Day at Iowa Veterans Cemetery May 16th, 2025.

IDVA

As we continue to honor our Vietnam veterans in this 50th Anniversary year, the influence of this group continues to inspire us. Between Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day highlighted in last month's issue, several more recent events focused on the honor they waited far too long. For May, the culminated in Memorial Day, but we'll continue to focus on throughout the summer. Again, the national 50th Anniversary Commemoration concludes this Veterans Day, Nov. 11th.

Finishing up his visit home, Col. Gerry Berry visited IVH May 16th to share his experiences, including his role in the 1975 Operation Frequent Wind, the final evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Saigon. His visit was powerful and appreciated by all.
📷 Story in the Times-Republican

We'd like to especially thank our Memorial Day speakers. National VFW Senior Vice Commander Carol Whitmore kicked off Memorial Day in Iowa with our early ceremony at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. This fall, she'll be the first Iowans and the first woman to ever serves as the VFW's National Commander.

Command Sgt. Major Todd Eipperle was our keynote speaker at Iowa Veterans Home. His military story is truly epic, but his service at home goes far beyond. To describe all of these events, the best thing to say is 'just watch.'

From Iowa and Back: The Vietnam Era represents years of community engagement, collaboration, and storytelling. The film offers a deeply personal exploration of the lives of ordinary Iowans who grew up in the 1950s and 60s, left the idyllic landscapes of small-town America, and faced the realities of war in foreign lands. Through Glazier’s lens, the film chronicles the veterans’ journeys, from the turbulence of war to the challenges of reintegration upon returning home. It provides a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by a generation whose narratives have often been overshadowed by history.

Courtesy of Brucemore Studios

Free Screening of From Iowa and Back: The Vietnam Era at Prairie Meadows July 8th, 6 p.m.

We wanted to make sure all Iowans are aware of this great opportunity to see this latest Iowa project from Brucemore Studios. From the producers, "From Iowa and Back: The Vietnam Era is a feature-length documentary produced by Brucemore Artisan Studio in collaboration with filmmaker Jeremy Glazier, highlighting the powerful and often overlooked stories of Iowans who served during the Vietnam era. The film captures their journeys from small-town life to the frontlines of war and the challenges they faced upon returning home, offering a deeply personal and honest portrayal. Featuring Gary Palmer, President and CEO of Prairie Meadows, the project honors all veterans and underscores Prairie Meadows’ ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served. For more information visit their website here."

Note: if you want to go you must register by June 24th, so get your RSVP in early!

Sendoff Ceremonies for the Iowa Army National Guard

More than 1,800 Soldiers from the Iowa Army National Guard’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, mobilized from 24 locations across Iowa between May 28–30, 2025. The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) was proud to be present at nearly all of these sendoffs.

These Soldiers are headed to Fort Johnson (formerly Fort Polk) in Louisiana for brigade-level training and deployment validation before deploying to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the ongoing mission to defeat ISIS.

While attending ceremonies in Boone and Davenport, I reflected on the reality that 50 to 80 years from now, the Iowa Veterans Home may serve these very Soldiers. Two of our own staff members are deploying with the unit, and we are proud of their service:

Jared Bailey, Resident Treatment Worker, Ulery Building
Madison Kremer-Awes, Resident Treatment Worker, Malloy Building (M3S)

We wish them a successful mission and look forward to welcoming them home in June 2026.

New Disabled Veteran Plates: Update on PWD Designation

We’ve had extensive internal discussions about converting the Disabled Veteran (DV) license plate into a Persons with Disabilities (PWD) plate. While initial indications suggested it might be possible, our division attorney has confirmed that an amendment to Iowa statute would be required to officially designate the DV plate as a PWD plate.

That said, we’re ready to move forward with a refresh of the DV plate design, and we've attached the proposed image that would be used if we are unable to include the PWD symbol.

Good news: All existing DV plates can be updated to the new design at no cost to the veteran.

To ensure accessibility, veterans can still receive a PWD sticker and standard placards alongside their DV plate. In Iowa, the PWD sticker on a license plate is recognized for accessible parking, and only PWD plates and placards offer reciprocity in other states.

We’re happy to work through the logistics if this is something you'd like to pursue

ments, and maintaining a safe environment. Your contributions are deeply valued, and we thank you.

Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade Entry Applications Available

2025 Theme, 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War

The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) has opened entry applications for the 2025 Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade, taking place on Monday, August 11. Applications are available now at dva.iowa.gov, with a submission deadline of August 1st.

This year’s theme honors the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War, placing Vietnam veterans at the heart of the event. All Vietnam veterans are invited to ride at the front of the parade and will be recognized collectively as Grand Marshals—a special distinction in place of the traditional one or two individuals.

All veterans, service members, and supporters are welcome to participate. The application link is featured in an alert banner at the top of this page and every page on the IDVA website easy access until the deadline.

From the Hill: 2025 Legislation Update

May 28th, Governor Reynolds signed House File 901, a bill that will streamline the process for veterans with active duty military police experience to become Iowa law enforcement officers. Congratulations to State Representative Jason Gearhart, an Army veteran and Vice Chair of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, for authoring this legislation and floor managing through to passage!

Office of the Governor of the Great State of Iowa

Several veteran-focused bills were passed during the 2025 Iowa Legislative Session. Highlights and key legislation are summarized below. For additional details, visit the Iowa Legislature website.

Personal Needs Allowance Increase

As part of the state budget, the monthly personal needs allowance eligible Iowa Veterans Home residents receive will increase from $50 to $55, effective July 1, 2025.

Legislation That Did Not Advance

Not all veteran-related proposals made it through the legislative process. Among the bills that failed to pass:

A bill to increase the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund cap from $50 million to $75 million (to account for inflation) passed the Senate unanimously, but stalled in the House.
A proposal to create a Veteran Service Organization Grant Program.
Legislation to allow National Guard and Reserve members—who don’t meet the Iowa Code 35.1 definition of “veteran”—to serve on county commissions of veterans affairs.
Several property tax proposals aimed at expanding veteran benefits were not adopted. It is expected that property tax reform will be a major issue during the 2026 session.

Bills Signed Into Law (Effective 7/1/25)

HF 250

Removes the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers as the exclusive accreditation provider for county veteran service officers.
Grants the IDVA Commandant authority to approve a list of eligible training organizations.
Changes reporting requirements from calendar year to fiscal year for county veterans affairs offices.

HF 117

Creates a National Guard Service Professional Qualification Program within the College Student Aid Commission.
Offers scholarships for credentialing programs to eligible National Guard members.

HF 118

Updates to the National Guard Service Scholarship Program to improve access and flexibility.

HF 885

Expands deer and turkey hunting privileges for disabled veterans.

SF 275

Establishes a Purple Star School Initiative to recognize Iowa schools that support military-connected students and families.

HF 901

Allows veterans with active duty military police experience to laterally transfer into Iowa law enforcement agencies without completing a full academy, provided certain criteria are met.

Awaiting Governor’s Signature

SF 253

Would allow service-connected disabled veterans to purchase a lifetime fur harvester license.

Please contact our office if you have questions about how this legislation may impact you or your community.

OSINT For Vets: News Analysis & Takeaways

Operation Recognition Vets Receive Diplomas

Dennis Snyder and Richard Hill received their High School diplomas decades after leaving Muscatine High School to serve before graduating, through IDVA's Operation Recognition program with the help of their Muscatine County Veterans Service officer. The story caught local attention, but spread as far as the New York Post, and is scheduled to air soon on National CBS Evening News.

KCCI

Across Iowa and the nation, recent stories paint a rich and multifaceted portrait of veterans’ experiences, needs, and recognition—ranging from deeply personal tributes to high-level policy changes and community-driven celebrations. See the full list of stories at the end of the newsletter.

Bottom Line Up Front: A State Engaged, A Future in Motion

Iowa continues to lead in memorializing its military past while confronting the pressing challenges of the present. Community-led efforts and federal coordination are addressing gaps in housing, health, and recognition. Still, tensions remain over how best to manage the VA, respond to mental health concerns, and equitably distribute resources.

Rhumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Trending Themes & Narratives to Navigate By

Veteran service organizations should prepare to engage in debates around privatization and mental health funding.
Healthcare providers can expect increased VA-community partnerships in rural Iowa.
Policymakers will likely continue bipartisan collaboration on Agent Orange exposure, homelessness, and mental health.
Cultural institutions should consider ways to spotlight modern veteran stories alongside historic ones.

News Issue Summaries

Commemoration, Recognition, and Legacy

June’s media coverage was rich with memorial events, including D-Day anniversary observances across Iowa and abroad. Among them:

Veterans return to Normandy for the 81st anniversary of D-Day.
A 97-year-old Iowa veteran parachutes to honor fallen comrades.
WWII soldier’s remains returned after 81 years.
Cedar Rapids’ tribute banners honor service during Freedom Festival.

Efforts to honor modern veterans also stood out:

Midwest Honor Flights carried dozens to Washington, D.C., for their service recognition.
Quilts of Valor and banner ceremonies personalized thanks in home communities.
A Vietnam veteran’s poetry and disc golf initiative highlighted creative ways to honor lost friends and foster new connections.

Iowa National Guard Deployment

In late May 2025, approximately 1,800 Iowa National Guard soldiers commenced deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, a mission aimed at countering ISIS in Iraq and Syria. This deployment marks a significant commitment from the Iowa National Guard, with troops representing various communities across the state.(cbs2iowa.com)

Key Details of the Deployment

Deployment Scope: The soldiers are part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, also known as the "Red Bulls." They will be stationed in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, which encompasses 21 nations, including Iraq, Syria, and parts of Africa and Central Asia. (knowherenews.com)
Duration: The deployment is expected to last approximately one year, during which the soldiers will engage in security and support operations to stabilize the region. (radioonthego.com)
Community Impact: Send-off ceremonies were held statewide, with communities coming together to bid farewell to their service members. These events were marked by emotional moments, as families and friends expressed their support and pride. (knowherenews.com)
Family Support Initiatives: In Siouxland, the organization "Support Siouxland Soldiers" initiated a project to create "deployment dolls" for the children of deployed soldiers, helping families cope with the separation. (ktiv.com)

For more detailed coverage and personal stories from the deployment, you can refer to the following articles:

These resources provide comprehensive insights into the deployment process, the roles of the Guard members, and the community's response to their service.

Housing, Health Care, and Systemic Change

Several stories focused on long-term challenges facing Iowa veterans, especially in housing and health care access:

Iowa City VA Health System’s expansion into West Burlington and Decorah signals a renewed push to reach rural veterans.
Johnson County’s first veterans housing project aims to lead in supportive living.
VA’s $42 million homelessness grant program marks a federal response to growing shelter insecurity.

On the mental health front, Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks led a Congressional hearing spotlighting reforms for mental health care, rural service delivery, and prioritization of senior veterans.

However, cautionary opinions emerged:

Critiques of privatization argue mental health reforms could undermine the VA system.
A veteran nonprofit reported rising suicide rates, reinforcing the need for immediate action and nuance in care delivery.

Legislative Advocacy and Political Movement

Iowa legislators are working both sides of the aisle:

Rep. Ashley Hinson’s bill expands benefits for Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
Sen. Joni Ernst advocated for additional military construction funding.
Sen. Grassley and others introduced legislation to protect veterans’ health care access.

Meanwhile, veterans are entering political races:

Ryan Peterman, a Navy veteran, announced his campaign for Iowa Secretary of State.

Culture, Education, and Community Roots

Veterans continue to influence culture and local history:

Creative arts competitions, high school diploma ceremonies, and Civil War headstone dedications remind us that the impact of service echoes through generations.

Family stories also captured attention:

Veteran’s families accepting posthumous diplomas, gold star designations, and flag-laying ceremonies reinforced Iowa’s deep respect for those who served.

Forecast: What’s Next in Veteran Reporting?

Expect the next wave of reporting to focus on:

Implementation of new VA access rules following policy changes easing referrals.
National Guard deployments and how families cope with long-term absence (example).
Honor Flight season coverage, especially around July 4 and Veterans Day planning.
Local impacts of the federal budget and campaign trail developments as veteran candidates and lawmakers seek reelection or higher office.

Benefits and Cemetery Bureau

A Time for Representing, Honoring, and Remembering

May was a busy and meaningful month for both the Iowa Veterans Benefits and Iowa Veterans Cemetery teams.

IDVA

The Benefits Bureau supported 22 outreach events across the state, including:

The Emmet County Never Alone event featuring the Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell
Southeastern Iowa Veterans Summit
Adair County Coffee & Comraderies
Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Ceremony at the Capitol
Iowa Army National Guard Pre-Yellow Ribbon Events in Altoona, Iowa City, Ames, Waterloo, and Council Bluffs
Decatur County Veterans Outreach
Polk County Senior Fest
Memorial Day Service at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery
Iowa ARNG Send-Off Ceremonies

The team is also preparing for a full calendar of outreach events in June.

Meanwhile, the Iowa Veterans Cemetery conducted 63 interments in May and focused its efforts on preparing for the annual Memorial Day Service, held at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, May 26. The ceremony was well attended and blessed with beautiful weather.

In the days leading up to the event, more than 100 volunteers helped place flags at every marker on the cemetery grounds. Participating organizations included:

Nationwide
Principal
Casey’s
Nebraska Furniture Mart
Amazon
Goodwill

Following Memorial Day, additional volunteers from MidAmerican Energy and Principal returned to assist with flag removal. Their support, along with all our dedicated volunteers, helped ensure the cemetery was a place of honor, dignity, and remembrance for all who visited.

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 Monthly Update

IDVA

Thank you for a powerful Memorial Day.
To everyone who contributed to our Memorial Day Program—thank you. It was heartwarming to see so many residents in attendance and the Malloy LRC filled with families, staff, and community members. A special thank-you to the staff who volunteered their time or ensured residents could attend. Your dedication honored the day’s meaning and our veterans' service.

Updates
The Quality Department has been busy this past month:

FY26 Strategic and Operational Plans have been submitted to the Department of Management.
- Operational plans detail the work we do daily to meet strategic goals.
- Strategic goals define our long-term vision and are aligned with the Governor’s initiatives.

Performance Improvement: Bed Maintenance
We’ve launched a Performance Improvement Project (PIP) on bed maintenance to:

Enhance resident safety and comfort
Improve tracking and communication
Support compliance with regulations

Vaccination Success
Thanks to our dedicated nursing staff, IVH continues to exceed national averages in vaccination rates for COVID-19, influenza, pneumonia (PCV20), and RSV. These efforts reduce illness severity and protect our residents' health.

Operations

As we approach the end of the fiscal year, departments are preparing for year-end closeout. Looking ahead:

New equipment purchases are on the horizon (lifts, slings, etc.). If you have ideas for equipment that could improve safety or efficiency, please share with your Bureau Chief.
FY26 Budget Update:
- IVH: $8,145,736
- Benefits & IVC: $1,369,205
  We’re also preparing for continued federal changes—please ask questions; leadership is here to help clarify what we know as information becomes available.
PNA Class Returns! Megan Mann led our first Paid Nutritional Assistant (PNA) class since pre-pandemic—10 students graduated. Interested? Ask your supervisor or Education.
LPN Clinicals: We currently host 15 LPN students for their 90-hour clinical rotations. Please welcome them and encourage them to join IVH!
Teacher Externship at IVH
On June 27, we’ll welcome 50 teachers as part of Iowa’s Teacher Externship program in Whitehill Auditorium. Thank you to Recruitment & Retention for leading this effort.
Iowa State Fair Veterans Day
Recruitment & Retention will also represent IVH at the Iowa State Fair—stop by to support our outreach and career awareness efforts.
Fourth of July Meal
Don't miss the July 4th celebration meal—we hope to see you there!

Summer Activities Are Here!

Fishing trips and Kernels baseball games are scheduled.
Little League on Valor Field is back! Thanks to Councilman Mark Mitchell and Sedlacek Meat Company for sponsoring hotdogs and chips.

IVH Week Is Coming!
Check the flyer from the REAL Committee for dress-up days, employee appreciation events, and more!

IVH Wide Events – June 2025

Date	Event
Mon, June 2	Music with Birdy Young – 2:00 PM, MLRC
Wed, June 4	Jerry’s Barnyard & Oscar’s Tractor Show – 9:00 AM–2:30 PM (Sheeler Lot/Courtyard)
Sat, June 7	ABATE Honoring Our Heroes Ride – 11:00 AM
Sun, June 8	Off-Highway Vehicle Rides – 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
Mon, June 9	Music with Paul Davis – 10:00 AM, MLRC
Fri, June 13	Corn Carnival Parade – Gladbrook
Sat, June 14	Combat Vets Motorcycle Visit & Elks Flag Day Program – 2:00 PM, MLRC
Tue, June 17	Iowa Speedway Corvette & Swag Visit – 1:00–3:00 PM, Courtyard
Thu, June 19	Music with Ron Burgess – 10:00 AM, MLRC
Sat, June 21	UAW Picnic (ATHA) & Farst Foundation Walk Event – 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Mon, June 23	IVH Foodie Club – 10:00 AM, Kopper Kettle
Tue, June 24	Summer Camp Meal! – 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, ATHA
Sun, June 29	Jeep Show – 2:00–3:00 PM, Sheeler/Loftus Lot

May 2025 Donations

We are grateful for the generosity of our community and donors. In May, we received over $11,937.15 in donations and countless in-kind items to support our residents. (Full donation list available upon request.)

Recognizing Excellence – May 2025 Awards

Congratulations to the following team members for going above and beyond:

🏆 Champion Award

Micah Ward, Activities Assistant (Driver)
Micah exemplifies the values of honor, integrity, and service, ensuring safe, comfortable transportation for our residents. His cheerful demeanor, attention to detail, and willingness to help—even running to assist someone not assigned to his vehicle—demonstrate his commitment to our mission.
Other nominees: John Johnson, Raena Garcia, Sadie Wertz, Barry Manz, Tammy Berger, Caitlin Bittner

🌺 Poppy Award – Nursing

Orlaida “Lai” Gethmann, RN (Ulery)
Lai goes above and beyond, always stepping in to help RTWs, transport residents, and ensure timely medication delivery. She’s known for being an outstanding team player.
Other nominees: Carmen Zednichek, Karla Ellithorpe, Sara Wacker, Jean Padron, Frankie Ramsey, Jessica Cron, Cheryl Voigt, Gabby Garcia

🍽️ Poppy Award – Food Service

Renato Corte, Storekeeper 3
Renato received two nominations for his upbeat attitude, strong work ethic, and dedication. Whether it's helping with unit breakfasts, unloading trucks, or cleaning the freezer twice in one week, Renato is always there to help.
Other nominees: Dillon Horn, John Grundy, Cathy Zink

Recognizing the Vital Role of Resident Treatment Workers

Recent conversations with two longtime Resident Treatment Workers (RTWs) reminded me of something I see every day but can't say enough. I want to state clearly: RTWs are essential to the Iowa Veterans Home.

Of our 364 direct-care positions, 276 are RTWs/CNAs – that’s 75% of our hands-on care team. RTWs are on the front lines, helping with feeding, bathing, hygiene, delivering treatment and engaging environment where people want to give their time and talents. Simply amazing!