IDVA Newsletter October 2025

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Unified by Service: Iowa Celebrates Veterans Day 2025

Each November, Iowans gather to say two simple words that carry generations of meaning: thank you. Veterans Day is a celebration—not of loss, but of living legacy. It honors those who have served and those who still serve, whether in uniform or in the quiet leadership that strengthens their communities long after coming home.

Across the state, Iowa’s veterans will be recognized for their courage, their continued service, and the character that has long defined the Hawkeye State’s military tradition. This year’s theme, “Unified by Service,” captures the spirit perfectly.

A Morning of Gratitude

At 8:00 a.m., Governor Kim Reynolds and Major General Steve Osborn, The Adjutant General of Iowa, will open the state’s official Veterans Day ceremony at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter. Beneath the sweeping shelter overlooking the Raccoon River Valley, veterans’ organizations, families, and local students will gather to celebrate the living bond between generations of service members.

Later that morning at 10:30 a.m., attention shifts to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, where Brigadier General Mark Kappelman, Deputy Adjutant General of Iowa, will speak to residents, staff, and guests. The IVH program—featuring music, remarks from residents, and messages of appreciation—has become one of the state’s most heartfelt Veterans Day traditions.

“These ceremonies are about recognizing the men and women who have made a lifetime of service,” said Commandant Todd Jacobus. “Veterans Day isn’t about mourning—it’s about gratitude, connection, and pride in what our veterans continue to give to Iowa and the nation.”

There will be countless local observances across the state as well. You can track some of these our our IDVA public events calendar, or reach out to your County Veterans Service Office to find ones in your area. 

A Legacy of Service and Strength

From the first Union regiments of the Civil War to the National Guard units serving overseas today, Iowans have always answered the call to defend freedom and help others. More than 76,000 Iowans fought in the Civil War—nearly one in five adult men at the time—earning the state a reputation for reliability and courage. Since then, Iowans have served in every major conflict, from the trenches of France to the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Veterans Day honors them all: the farmers who became pilots, the teachers who became medics, the factory workers who became mechanics, and the students who became soldiers. And it honors those who, after returning home, became mayors, coaches, business owners, and community volunteers—continuing to serve long after their military careers ended.

“The selflessness of our veterans has always been unmatched,” Governor Reynolds said at last year's ceremony. “They remind us that there are few things more fundamentally American than service to others.”

At both ceremonies, attendees will hear stories of service that bridge generations. World War II veterans will sit alongside those who deployed to Afghanistan. Younger Iowans will meet residents from the Veterans Home who helped rebuild Europe, defend Korea, and navigate the Cold War.

The Meaning of “Unified by Service”

Each year the Veterans Day National Committee publishes a commemorative Veterans Day poster. The Committee selects a poster from artwork submitted by artists nationwide. Over the years these posters have illustrated the rich history of our country’s service men and women. The poster reflects our pride and patriotism in saluting Veterans while providing the thematic artistry for the year.

The winner of the 2025 Veterans Day Poster Contest is Jeremy D. Carpenter. Jeremy’s creation, entitled Unified by Service, reflects the 2025 Veterans Day theme “Service to Our Nation” by visually uniting all uniformed services under one flag and one purpose.

Jeremy describes his artwork as “formal, structured, and patriotic. It pays tribute to all Veterans regardless of when or where they served, and it emphasizes that service to the nation is not confined to one uniform, one battlefield, or one generation. The eagle, flag, and seals work together to portray unity, honor, and a continued commitment to freedom.”

The Veterans Day poster will be displayed in VA facilities, military installations, and municipal buildings across America. It will also serve as the cover of the official program for the Veterans Day commemoration at Arlington National Cemetery on November 11.

A Day to Celebrate

Across Iowa, communities will mark Veterans Day in their own ways—school assemblies, downtown parades, free breakfasts, and small-town gatherings at local memorials. From Cedar Rapids to Council Bluffs, from Davenport to Sioux City, each celebration reflects a shared gratitude for those who have worn the uniform and continue to strengthen their communities.

Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives in service, Veterans Day is about honoring the living—the veterans among us today. It is a chance to look them in the eye, shake their hands, and say, “We remember. We’re thankful. We’re proud you’re one of us.”

A Lasting Promise

When the ceremonies end and the crowds disperse, the gratitude remains. Being an Iowa veteran means more than having served—it means belonging to a community that values service as a way of life.

“Unified by Service,” as this year’s theme reminds us, is not just about the military. It’s about how veterans continue to lead—at work, in church, in their towns, and in their families. It’s about how Iowa stands together, bound by a tradition of service that never fades.

If you've been asked to speak at a Veterans Day event, we encourage every vet who's able to say 'yes!' You are our best spokesperson. If you need some help figuring out what to say, check out our 'Veterans Day Speech Battle Buddy' below. 

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Veterans Day 2025 Ceremonies:

• 8:00 a.m. – Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Van Meter

  Speakers: Governor Kim Reynolds, Major General Steve Osborn

• 10:30 a.m. – Iowa Veterans Home, Marshalltown

  Speaker: Brigadier General Mark Kappelman

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From the Commandant

This fall has brought both challenges and reminders of why our mission matters so deeply.

In September, Marshalltown experienced a community outbreak of Legionella alongside COVID-19 cases. At the Iowa Veterans Home, 29 residents and 15 staff tested positive for COVID, and three residents contracted Legionnaires’ disease. Thankfully, our residents experienced only minimal symptoms, and the outbreak was quickly contained. Our cooling towers were never considered a likely source—our regular maintenance program already involves proactive measures to prevent Legionella and other waterborne contagions. We conducted repeated testing strictly as a precaution, and every result confirmed what we already knew: our maintenance team and preventative measures are world-class.

We also held a full-scale emergency response drill with Marshalltown Police, sharpening readiness for crises we hope never come.

Meanwhile, national developments remind us of the broader context we serve in: a federal government shutdown beginning October 1, a Supreme Court ruling reshaping disability appeals, workforce shortages across VA hospitals, and renewed focus on veteran suicide prevention. Through it all, Iowa’s mission continues uninterrupted.

At IVH, we are addressing staffing gaps directly with referral bonuses, recruitment fairs, and strong professional development. For nurses and caregivers seeking more than a job, this is a calling—every shift here honors service, not just provides care.

As we prepare for Veterans Day, Iowa will again gather at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter and the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown. The national theme this year is “Unified by Service.”

— Todd Jacobus, Commandant

 

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October-November Highlights

IDVA Commandant Todd Jacobus spoke at The Final Salute memorial service Oct. 4th at Lutheran Church of Hope's Waukee campus, Oct. 4th. 

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The Final Salute Ceremony Lays 13 Unclaimed Iowa Veterans to Rest at Iowa Veterans Cemetery

(Click to view ceremony at Lutheran Church of Hope Waukee campus) 

(Click to view ceremony at Iowa Veterans Cemetery)

The annual Final Salute Ceremony, held October 4th this year, honored 13 unclaimed veterans and one spouse with full military honors.

The event, organized by The Final Salute nonprofit with support from the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) and other partners, drew hundreds of attendees from across the state — veterans, Gold Star families, students, and members of the public who came simply to pay respect.

The morning began with a visitation and memorial service at Lutheran Church of Hope in Waukee, followed by a motorcycle and escort procession led by the Patriot Guard Riders, AMVETs Riders, and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter. There, service honor guards and volunteer urn and flag bearers participated in the interment ceremony, along with nominated volunteers to receive the flag of each service member, symbolically adopting them as kin. This annual ceremony ensures each unclaimed veteran receives the dignity, ceremony, and gratitude they earned through service.

IDVA Commandant Todd Jacobus delivered closing remarks, and joined speakers that also included Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer; Iowa National Guard Chaplain Col. Martha Kester; WHO Radio personality Simon Conway and his wife April - a Blue Star Family; a musical performance by Neva Alden; The Final Salute Founder, Lanae Strovers; and Final Salute members Rich Shipley and Delvin Hilgenberg. 

 

Photos from The Final Salute 2025

Freedom Riders, AMVETS Riders and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association led a procession for a local unclaimed veteran from Waterloo to Waukee. They gathered in the pre-dawn hours, were addressed by U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley, and were met along the way by area first responders on highway overpasses.  The Final Salute	WHO Radio's Simon and April Conway, a Blue Star family, read the life stories of Army service members honored in this year's The Final Salute memorial ceremony.  The Final Salute	IDVA Commandant Todd Jacobus The Final Salute Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer The Final Salute	Iowa National Guard Chaplain, Col. Martha Kester The Final Salute Lanae Strovers, The Final Salute The Final Salute	Iowa State House Representative Eddie Andrews and State Auditor Rob Sand were among several notable Iowa figures who volunteered to participate in several roles for this year's The Final Salute ceremony. Neva Alden sings at The Final Salute	Pallbearers escort unclaimed veteran remains to the processession. Pallbearers load veteran unclaimed remains for the processession to Iowa Veterans Cemetery	Iowa Freed Riders, AMVETS Riders and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association members let a processession to Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Oct. 4th, as part of this year's The Final Salute ceremony.  Placing of the flags and urns	The MacKenzie Highlanders bagpipes lead the processession at Iowa Veterans Cemetery U.S. Navy honor detail	U.S. Navy Capt. Quinton James, the first Commanding Officer of USS IOWA (SSN797), IDVA Commandant Todd Jacobus, Col. Iowa Army National Guard (ret.); and U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, Lt. Col. Iowa National Guard (ret.) were among several notable flag recipients.	Congressman, and U.S. Air Force Reserve Col. Zach Nunn was a flag recipient for this year's The Final Salute ceremony. He is one of several notable Iowa figures who contributed to this year's event.  The Final Salute Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer places an urn to be sealed	Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand places an urn to be sealed Iowa House Rep. Eddie Andrews places an urn to be sealed

U.S. Sen. and retired Iowa National Guard Lt. Col. Joni Ernst; U.S. Congressman and current U.S. Air Force Reserve Col. Zach Nunn; Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand; and Iowa House Rep. Eddie Andrews all volunteered their time and served in the ceremony in various capacities. 

“Each of these veterans laid to rest today may have passed without family present or public recognition, but not without dignity, respect, or the gratitude of a grateful nation,” said Commandant Todd Jacobus. "Their names now join the honored roll of service in Iowa’s Veterans Cemetery. 

The ceremony featured prayers of remembrance, presentation of colors, and the solemn rendering of honors by military and veterans’ organizations. For many in attendance, it was their first time witnessing the service firsthand — a moment of quiet reflection on the meaning of service, sacrifice, and community.

Iowa Veterans Cemetery has been the final resting place of veterans served by The Final Salute since the project began in 2018. IDVA staff provide logistical coordination, record verification, and ceremonial support in partnership with The Final Salute and contributing organizations. 

Since its inception, The Final Salute has interred more than 130 unclaimed Iowa veterans, each ceremony ensuring that no one who served is forgotten.

 Watch and Share:

• Video coverage: KCCI News — “Final Salute honors unclaimed Iowa veterans” (October 5, 2025)
• Photos and updates: The Final Salute on Facebook
• IDVA media archives: Iowa Veteran Video News and IDVA Videos

 

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Upcoming Fall CVSO Training: Investing in Local Veteran Support

The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs will host its annual Fall County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) Training on October 21–23, 2025 at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Event Center in Johnston. Commissioner Training will be the week before, Oct. 13th. This training is part of a long-term commitment by IDVA and the Iowa Commission of Veteran Affairs to strengthen the network of local professionals who connect veterans with the benefits and resources they have earned.

The October session will continue the focus on “back to the basics,” including updates on partnerships with state entities and non-profit resources from across the state. Participants will receive instruction from subject matter experts on who to contact with a Natural Disaster, where to go, how to be a helpful within their community clean up or staging other resources. Other areas will be helping get the word out (Best Pratices) to draw in veterans, service members and families to our local county offices for any additional services available.

Training is provided at no cost to county VSOs, commissioners, and supervisors. Room blocks are available at Stoney Creek, with additional lodging at Camp Dodge Billeting. Travel costs are reimbursable.

By investing in the professional development of county-level officers, commissioners, and supervisors, IDVA ensures that Iowa veterans have knowledgeable advocates in every county—building a stronger, more connected system of care statewide.

 

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Iowa Secretary of State Asks for Your Help in Upcoming City-School Elections!

We are now just a few short weeks away from the November 4 City-School Elections.
These are important local elections that impact everything from property taxes,
municipal services, school boards, and more!
If you have requested an absentee ballot, make sure to promptly mark your ballot and
return it in the postage-paid envelope. Mailed ballots must be received before 8:00 p.m.
CT on Election Day to be counted. If you have not mailed your ballot by Election Day,
you may hand deliver your ballot to your county auditor’s office, or you can surrender
your absentee ballot at your precinct polling place on Election Day and vote via regular
ballot.
If you are planning on voting in person at the polls on Election Day, make sure that you
have proof of ID and proof of residence. Valid forms of ID include an Iowa driver’s
license, Iowa non-operator ID, U.S. passport, U.S. military or veteran ID, ID card issued
by an employer, student ID issued by an Iowa high school or college, and Tribal ID
card/documentation. If you are a new Iowa resident, an out-of-state driver’s license or
non-operator ID is also acceptable. For proof of residence, if your photo ID does not
contain your current address, you will need to bring a residential lease, utility bill, bank
statement, paycheck, government check, other government document, or property tax
statement.
On Election Day, if you need accessible voting options, several are available to you at
the polls. These options include accessible voting machines, voting with assistance, and
curbside voting. For more information, visit sos.iowa.gov.

 

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Agent Orange Awareness Month

October is recognized as Agent Orange Awareness Month. Vietnam-era veterans exposed to herbicides may be eligible for care and compensation. Contact your County Veteran Service Officer or visit VA’s Agent

 Orange page → VA.gov

 

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Honoring Navy & Marine Corps 250th

U.S. Navy Birthday — October 13 (250th)

The Navy turns 250 this month. Iowa’s legacy includes the USS Iowa (BB-61), which carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943, earned nine WWII battle stars, fought in Korea, and now serves as a museum ship.

U.S. Marine Corps Birthday — November 10 (250th)

• Harold “Pie” Keller (Brooklyn, IA): confirmed as one of the Marines raising the flag on Iwo Jima.
• Lance Cpl. Darwin L. Judge (Marshalltown, IA): one of the last two U.S. servicemen killed in Vietnam (April 29, 1975).

 The U.S. Marine Corps League will hold a birthday observance at the Iowa State Capitol on November 10. Details: IDVA Events Calendar

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UNI Panthers Military Appreciation Game

Saturday, November 8, UNI-Dome, Cedar Falls. The Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell will be on display. Veterans and service members receive FREE ADMISSION with valid military ID or 'veteran designated' Iowa Driver's License.

 See event details: IDVA Events Calendar

 

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IDVA Veterans Day Ceremonies – Save the Time

• Iowa Veterans Cemetery (Van Meter): 8:00 a.m., Committal Shelter — Governor Kim Reynolds and Major General Steve Osborn will speak.
• Iowa Veterans Home (Marshalltown): 10:30 a.m., Malloy Leisure Resource Center — Brigadier General Mark Kappelman will deliver remarks.

Look for our November newsletter features on these events.

 

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Wreaths Across America

This December will mark the first Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery without longtime organizer Pat Palmersheim. His daughter and grandson are continuing his legacy.

 Highlights from Wreaths Across America 2023 → YouTube link

 Photo gallery: Des Moines Register

 

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From the Hill

The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is currently conducting a comprehensive review of its administrative rule chapters as part of Executive Order 10. This initiative focuses on identifying and revising outdated rules, removing language that duplicates Iowa Code, and improving overall clarity. Of the 17 chapters under review, 11 are actively in process, with full completion expected next year.

 

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Iowa Veterans Benefits Bureau & Cemetary Update

• Training for CVSOs & Commissioners: Free, in-person training continues this October, focusing on disability appeals, housing, and mental health.
• Adair County Outreach: Quilts of Valor presentations, medal restorations, and the Spirit of Iowa Tribute Bell on display.
• Women Veterans – Strive for 500: Encouraging every Iowa woman veteran to record her service in the Military Women’s Memorial.
• Volunteer Support: Groups like Hotsy and Saluting Branches cleaned memorial walls, washed headstones, and maintained the grounds.

• Stay Connected: Subscribe at dva.iowa.gov.

   

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Iowa Veterans Home

• Health & Safety: The Marshalltown Legionella outbreak was swiftly and professionally managed by our IVH staff with minimal impact through transparent updates.

• Preparedness: Active shooter drill improved coordination with police.
• Staff Recognition: Nurse Clinician Bonnie Linsenmeyer received the Daisy Award; Food Service earned the NDEAM Award.
• Community Engagement: Residents welcomed Major General Irfete Spahiu of Kosovo.

We’re Hiring!

RNs, LPNs, and CNAs needed. Referral bonuses available. Apply here → Work at IVH

 

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Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs

The ICVA Fall Quarterly Commision meeting was Oct. 1st at 10 a.m. at Iowa Veterans Home. Legislative priorities for the 2026 session were a major focus to get a running start for the 2026 Veterans Day on the Hill January 21st in the Capitol Rotunda. We have room for 24 vendors this year, so applications will be available soon on the IDVA web page. 

The next meeting will be January 7, 2026, 10:00 am, Camp Dodge. 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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OSINT Report: News & Analysis For Iowa Vets

BLUF: Bottom Line Up Front

Veteran-related news is currently dominated by the deepening federal government shutdown and its immediate financial impact on service members and their families, with organizations like military relief societies reporting an "unprecedented" surge in requests for financial assistance. The crisis has necessitated an emergency $8 billion transfer by the Pentagon to ensure troops receive their mid-month paychecks, while military families are turning to food pantries at increasing rates—some reporting over a 30% rise in visits. Simultaneously, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is facing long-term structural challenges, including a massive anticipated 50% rise in demand for in-home care by 2040 and the complex deployment of Artificial Intelligence to address the infamous disability claims backlog. Internationally, the news cycle is split between President Trump’s high-stakes diplomatic efforts to broker a conditional Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal and escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly a new threat of a 100% tariff on China and warnings to Russia over the war in Ukraine.

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Line of Sight: Detailed News Analysis

International Issues

• Gaza Ceasefire and Hostages: A conditional ceasefire deal to end the conflict in Gaza and secure the release of the remaining 20 living Israeli hostages has been brokered, with Hamas agreeing to the plan with its own conditions. The U.S. is sending approximately 200 troops to Israel to help monitor the agreement alongside partner nations.

• Geopolitical Tensions: President Trump has threatened long-range Tomahawk missiles against Russia if the war in Ukraine is not settled soon. He also announced new threats of 100% tariffs on China in retaliation for limiting access to rare minerals, a move that sent stocks sinking.
• Military Readiness and Global Footprint: The U.S. military is building a dedicated facility in Idaho to train pilots from key ally Qatar. The United Nations is facing a 25% cut to its global peacekeeping force in response to funding strains from the U.S. U.S. Domestic concerns over military pay during the government shutdown are bleeding over to international security questions from rivals and allies alike.
• Legacy Issues: Congress is nearing a vote to formally repeal the 2002 Iraq War resolution, embedded in both versions of the current National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate has passed the bill, and the House is expected to vote soon. 

National Issues

• Government Shutdown and Military Pay: The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its second week, is causing severe financial distress in mainstream America and media. While the Pentagon is shifting $8 billion from research and development to ensure troops are paid on October 15th, most Americans perceive the move as a band-aid fix on a tourniquet problem.
  • Military relief societies report an "unprecedented" number of requests for financial aid.
  • Military families' visits to food pantries have increased by over 30% in some regions.
  • Tricare has warned that medical claims for military families may not be paid until the government reopens.
  • President Trump has raised the possibility of denying back pay to some furloughed federal workers, including those who have faced mass firings at the White House's direction.
• Veteran Healthcare and Benefits:
  • Demand for home-based, long-term care for veterans is expected to rise by over 50% by 2040 due to the aging veteran population.
  • The VA is turning to Artificial Intelligence in one of the largest government experiments to process the infamous backlog of disability claims, though one report highlighted a VA staffer who "blindly" approved over 85,000 disability claims, potentially resulting in a loss of benefits for some veterans.
  • The VFW sharply criticized The Washington Post for a report titled "How some veterans exploit $193 billion VA program, due to lax controls," which alleged some veterans fake conditions to receive up to $1 million in benefits.
  • "Gulf War Illness" has been formally recognized with an international medical code, a "long-overdue validation" for veterans.
• Military-Civilian Divide and Politics:
  • A poll indicates that most Americans trust veteran political candidates more to unify the country than those with business or government backgrounds.
  • A lawsuit is challenging President Trump’s novel use of the National Guard for law enforcement in U.S. cities, exposing a partisan divide over the Posse Comitatus Act and the apolitical nature of the military.
  • Democratic lawmakers have accused the VA Secretary of "weaponizing" the shutdown by ignoring requests to assist constituents.

Iowa-Specific Issues

• Agriculture and Economy: Iowa farmers are facing a potential Farm Crisis due to low commodity prices and high production costs. Trade disputes with China have led to a boycott of U.S. soybeans, significantly impacting farm revenue. Senator Chuck Grassley noted that congressional action is needed before the U.S. can send farmers financial assistance.

• Veteran Recognition and Support:

  • 14 Bravo Company Vietnam veterans were finally honored with long-overdue Bronze Stars at a ceremony in Omaha, Nebraska.
  • The remains of a WWII airman lost in 1944 were positively identified and interred in Glenwood, Iowa.
  • The non-profit Final Salute laid to rest the unclaimed remains of 13 more veterans at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
  • The state is moving to secure food aid programs amid the shutdown, with state officials stepping in to fund WIC.

• State Leadership: 

  • Rep. Tom Determann (R-Clinton) was named chairman of the Iowa House Veterans Affairs Committee for the 2026 Legislative Session.
  • Governor Kim Reynolds met with local officials to prioritize property tax reform for the upcoming legislative session.

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Over the Horizon: Media Forecast

International

The media will intensely cover the delicate Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages negotiations as the deal faces internal pressure from Hamas. Coverage will escalate sharply if the deal fails, leading to renewed focus on President Trump's promise to give Israel full support to "finish" Hamas. Look for continued analysis of the new China tariffs and their ripple effects on global trade and markets. The potential deployment of Tomahawk missiles will keep the Russia-Ukraine war in the headlines, framed around the limits of deterrence and U.S. military signaling.

National

The government shutdown will remain the dominant national story, with a shift from initial panic to documenting the sustained hardship and political fallout. Media will focus on the approaching pay date and whether the Pentagon's $8 billion transfer is a sustainable fix. Expect more reports detailing the surge in demand for military aid and food pantries. The controversy over the VA's AI implementation and the recent report on fraudulent claims will generate stories questioning the fairness and accountability of the VA’s long-term care and benefits processing, especially as demand for veteran home-based care rises by 50%.

Iowa

Iowa media will focus on the farm crisis, with increasing human-interest stories documenting the financial strain on individual farmers and the growing fear of a second "Farm Crisis." Local reporting will continue to cover the essential but strained state programs filling the gap left by the federal shutdown, such as WIC funding. The Iowa Veterans Affairs Committee, newly chaired by Rep. Determann, will see more media attention as the state legislature prepares to address veterans' needs, potentially spurred by the national focus on VA efficiency and healthcare access.

Rhumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Themes for Iowa Veterans

From Bronze Stars to a paycheck: Bridging Honor and Support

Message: Recognition must be paired with reliability — our veterans and service members deserve both.

Framing Strategy:

• Share Bravo Company’s Bronze Star story as a reminder of enduring service.
• Acknowledge the strain young military familiesface during the shutdown —  particularly our guard soldiers deployed in the Middle East and here at home - not to assign blame, but to highlight urgency.
• Invite state and local leaders to explore emergency relief options, community-based support, and pressure for a permanent federal solution.

Tone: Respectful, solution-focused, and grounded in shared values.

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Veterans’ Aging Crisis: Planning for Dignity and Independence

Message: Iowa can lead in veteran care — with foresight, compassion, and community.

Framing Strategy:

• Note the projected 50% rise in demand for home-based veteran care by 2040.
• Connect this to Iowa’s aging population and rural geography.
• Propose support for caregiver training programs, mobile health services, and incentives for in-home care providers.

Tone: Proactive, responsible, and community-minded ... taking care of our own. 

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From the Farm Crisis to the Front Line: Strengthening Iowa’s Backbone

Message: Economic and military resilience go hand in hand — and Iowa can reinforce both.

Framing Strategy:

• Recognize the financial strain Iowa farmers face from trade disruptions and low commodity prices.
• Link this to federal gridlock affecting military pay.
• Encourage bipartisan efforts to stabilize markets and ensure consistent pay for service members.

Tone: Unified, pragmatic, and forward-looking.

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Your Veterans Day Speech 'Battle Buddy'

Veterans Day is one of the most meaningful days of the year for Iowa’s veterans — and one of the most important opportunities to share our message with an American public whose attention is pulled in every direction. Across the state, veteran organizations will be asked to provide color guards and speakers. But let’s be honest: not all of us feel ready to step up to the mic.

If you’re unsure what to say, this guide is here to help. Whether you speak for two minutes or twenty, these time-tested ideas will keep you on point and on time. They’re designed to be mix-and-match — no one should use every bullet. Just choose one or two from each section, speak from the heart, and be authentic. You represent all of us.

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I. Core Message: Gratitude and Honor

• Universal Thank You: Express sincere gratitude to all who’ve worn the uniform — in war and peace, across all branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force).
• A Day for Living Veterans: Clarify that Veterans Day honors those still with us, while Memorial Day is for those we’ve lost.
• The Cost of Freedom: Acknowledge that our freedoms are secured by the courage and commitment of those who served.
• Service Is a Lifetime Commitment: Remind the audience that veterans continue to serve as leaders, volunteers, and community members long after their military service ends.

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II. Themed Talking Points: Depth and Relevance

2025 Theme: “Unified by Service”

• Emphasize that service unites veterans across generations, branches, and conflicts.
• Highlight shared values: duty, honor, commitment, and protecting the nation.
• Share a personal story if you feel comfortable — it makes the message real.

Transition and Continued Service

• Talk about the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.
• Recognize the skills veterans bring to the workforce: leadership, discipline, teamwork.

Support for Families

• Honor military families — spouses, children, and caregivers — who serve alongside their veterans.

Mental Health and Wellness

• Acknowledge the importance of supporting veterans’ physical and mental health.
• Encourage openness and access to care for both visible and invisible wounds.

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III. Call to Action: Give Them Homework

• Hire a Veteran: Encourage businesses to recruit veterans. Mention programs like Home Base Iowa and “Hire a Veteran Day.”
• Connect and Listen: Urge people to talk with veterans in their community. A thank-you note or a respectful conversation goes a long way.
• Support Veteran Organizations: Highlight local and national VSOs like the VFW, American Legion, or DAV.
• Know and Advocate for Resources: Mention County Veteran Service Offices, the Veterans Crisis Line, and VA Health Care. Encourage advocacy for policies that support veterans and their families.

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Need More Help?

Here are a few trusted resources with sample speeches and templates:

• Suggested Remarks for Veterans Day – The American Legion
• Veterans Day Speech Guide – DAV
• Speech Samples – Speeches HQ
• Speech Ideas – My Speech Class

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