On this page...
- IDVA September Update: Iowa Remembers 9/11
- National Suicide Awareness Month
- From Your Commandant
- Final Salute Ceremony: Honoring Iowa’s Unclaimed Veterans
- Upcoming Fall CVSO Training: Investing in Local Veteran Support
- Iowa Secretary of State Asks for Your Help in Upcoming City-School Elections!
- VA Secretary Doug Collins Vists Central Iowa Health Care Services, Sept. 9th
- Event Highlights (Sept 15–Oct 15)
- Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs Fall Quarterly Meeting, Oct. 1st
- Government Relations Update
- OSINT for Vets: News Analysis & Takeaways
- BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front — summary analysis)
- Line of Sight (current issues covered)
- Over the Horizon: Media Forecast for Vets
- Rhumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Navigating Themes & Messages
- Benefits & Cemetery Bureau Update
- Iowa Veterans Home Update
- Full News Stories from the OSINT Report
- Iowa's Future Vets in the News
IDVA September Update: Iowa Remembers 9/11

This September marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11th attacks—an event that reshaped America’s national security, global mission, and community life. For Iowans, remembrance is not only about reflecting on that morning but also about honoring the thousands of service members, first responders, and families whose lives were forever changed.
Check out 20 Years Later: Iowa National Guard Reflects on September 11, 2001
Iowa paid a high price during the Global War on Terror. Seventy-three Iowans were killed in action, and more than 600 were wounded in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other contingency operations. Many more carry invisible scars, with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and the burdens of repeated deployments shaping post-service life. Yet Iowa’s communities have consistently rallied around their veterans—through memorials, advocacy, and local acts of remembrance.
Of the last 13 servicemembers killed at Abbey Gate in Afghanistan, August 26, 2020, five of them hadn't even been born yet when the attacks took place at the Twin Towers and Pentagon. Our own Corp. William-Tyeler Page of Red Oak was three years old when the war he fought to end started.

Across the state, 9/11 is honored each year in ways both solemn and personal. The State of Iowa Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial at our own Iowa Veterans Cemetery stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment in our nation's longest war. In Des Moines, volunteers plant flags around Grey's Lake park each year for the days leading up to Patriot's Day. The Iowa 9/11 Memorial in Altoona stands is another permanent site of reflection, featuring steel beams recovered from the World Trade Center. Many communities have added GWOT memorials, or added GWOT segments to existing war memorials in public place. Schools, firehouses, and community groups hold moments of silence, flag ceremonies, and educational programs to remind younger generations of the day’s impact. At the Iowa Veterans Home, residents and staff gather for tributes, music, and prayer, reaffirming that service and sacrifice are
never forgotten.
This year, communities from Marshalltown to Cedar Rapids, from Des Moines to Council Bluffs, once again held ceremonies and concerts, many led by veterans and first responders who lived through the consequences of that day. Quilts of Valor presentations, “Run to Remember” events, and local memorial services are just a few that remind us that remembrance is not passive—it is active care for those who served and for the ideals that unite us.
In a time when national unity can feel fragile, 9/11 remembrance offers Iowans a chance to reconnect with shared purpose. Veterans remain at the heart of these ceremonies, embodying resilience and service that continue to inspire new generations.
Bottom line: Iowa affirms a simple truth: we remember, and we will continue to serve.
Back to topNational Suicide Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Awareness Month, a time to highlight the urgent need for suicide prevention

and support within the veteran community. Veterans continue to face a higher risk of suicide than their civilian peers, making awareness and connection critically important.
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to ensuring no veteran feels alone. As a proud partner in the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families, we work alongside state and federal partners to expand prevention strategies, raise awareness, and strengthen local resources. Tools like the Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988, VETS press 1), YourLifeIowa.org, peer support programs, and community outreach events provide immediate, confidential help.
Together, we can break the stigma and create a culture where asking for help is a sign of strength. By standing united, we honor the service of Iowa’s veterans and ensure they know their community stands ready to support them.
Help Is Always Available
(Place Governor’s Challenge logo here for visual emphasis)
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
- YourLifeIowa.org: 24/7 online chat, text, and phone support
- IDVA Resources: va.iowa.gov
From Your Commandant
2025 IVH DAISY Award goes to Bonnie Linsenmeyer, RN!
First, Congratulations to our 2025 DAISY Award Honoree, Bonnie Linsenmeyer, RN! Bonnie was nominated five times over the past year in recognition of her exceptional leadership and the compassionate care she provides to both staff and residents. The DAISY Award is an international program that honors the extraordinary skill and humanity nurses bring to their work, and Bonnie exemplifies those qualities every day. Her dedication, professionalism, and kindness make a lasting impact, and we are proud to celebrate her as this year’s Iowa Veterans Home DAISY Award recipient for nursing.
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs Conference
I attended the annual National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs Conference in Cheyenne, Wy. the second week of September. While there's a lot to share from great opportunity to train with my peers, it gave me the opportunity to address some Iowa-specific veteran issues with some of our federal leaders.
Meeting with Dr. Paul Lawrence, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Sept. 10th, I had the opportunity to meet personally with Dr. Paul Lawrence, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, during the National Association of State Veterans Homes conference in Cheyenne, Wyoming. We spoke for about 20 minutes, joined by Mike Stoddard (Executive Assistant to the Secretary) and Diane Cullo (Senior Advisor for Inter-Governmental Affairs). It was a productive and wide-ranging conversation.
Key topics we discussed included:

- Pharmaceutical costs (HF 1970): Dr. Lawrence and his team are aware of this legislative issue. While VA is not directly engaged, he expressed concern after hearing that some states do not admit veterans with high medication expenses.
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME): We reviewed the recent policy change requiring states to cover the cost of DME for veterans rated 70%+ service-connected disabled. Dr. Lawrence noted the change and committed to looking into why it was implemented so abruptly in 2025.
- Construction grants: He acknowledged the nationwide concern over the program and, while no commitments were made, confirmed the issue is on VA’s radar.
ISU Army ROTC CY-Hawk game ball stops at IVH Sept. 5th

Earlier this month, it was a great to have the Iowa State University Army ROTC to meet residents and bring the Cy-Hawk Game Ball for it's annual stop at Iowa Veterans Home on their way from Iowa City to Ames. These future leaders give us all great confidence the defense of our nation is in great hands. You can read more about it in
With our future and current vets in mind, POW/MIA Recognition Day at the Capitol is Friday, September 19 at 8:00 a.m. Governor

ISU AFROTC POW/MIA Day Run Sept. 19th
The annual POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at the Iowa State Capitol, will read and sign the proclamation during the event.
The ceremony is hosted by the Iowa State University Air Force ROTC program, who will mark the day with a remembrance run from the Capitol to Gold Star Hall in the ISU Student Union. The unit has carried on this tradition at the Capitol for many decades. It remains a powerful reminder of Iowa’s ongoing commitment to honor those who were held as prisoners of war and those still missing in action.
For those who might not know, Gold Star Hall is something every Iowa vet should visit at least once (and that's coming from a Hawkeye). When the Memorial Union opened in 1928, the names of the Iowa Staters who died in World War I were carved into the walls. In 1969, the names of WWII casualties were mounted on two bronze doors in the zodiac foyer. In 1984, the bronze doors were removed, and the names from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam were engraved into the limestone inside Gold Star Hall. In subsequent years, additional names were engraved for WW I, WW II, Korea, Vietnam and the USS Liberty, as well as Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Gold Star Hall embodies the memorium that the entire building represents. So if you can't make the ceremony, maybe try to meet the unit there at the end.
Parking will be reserved in the West lot for ISU Air Force ROTC vans. We look forward to standing together once again in recognition of our nation’s POWs and MIAs and their families. You can download the flyer on the right to share it locally.
Remembering the end of WWII
September 2nd marked Victory Over Japan Day (V-J Day)—the 80th anniversary of the formal end of World War II. On September 2, 1945, aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, Japan’s leaders signed the instruments of surrender. General Douglas MacArthur and Admiral Chester Nimitz accepted on behalf of the United States and President Harry S. Truman.
That moment concluded nearly four years of brutal conflict in the Pacific, beginning with Pearl Harbor and fought across places etched in history—Guadalcanal, Midway, Saipan, Leyte Gulf, Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and many others. The cost was staggering: more than 160,000 Americans killed in the Pacific Theater and 40,000 still missing in action.
Here at the Iowa Veterans Home, we are honored to count among our residents a man who witnessed the surrender from the deck of the USS Tucson. His story, like so many others from “The Greatest Generation,” reminds us of the sacrifices that shaped our nation and the freedom we enjoy today.
Eighty years later, we pause to honor their courage, mourn their loss, and celebrate their victory. It is a privilege to serve the veterans, spouses, caregivers, and survivors who carry this legacy forward.
Back to topFinal Salute Ceremony: Honoring Iowa’s Unclaimed Veterans
This year’s Final Salute Ceremony and interment will be held on Saturday, October 4, at Hope Lutheran Church in Waukee. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. A solemn procession will then make its way to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, where the interment ceremony is planned for 1:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs is proud of its ongoing partnership with Final Salute, the nonprofit founded by Lenae Strovers, to honor deceased veterans whose remains have been left unclaimed and to ensure they are interred with dignity. IDVA facilitates the burials at the IVC and supports the program, ensuring that every veteran receives the honors they earned in life—whether or not family is present.
Community members, veteran service organizations, and local leaders are invited to stand in place of family, bearing witness as flags are folded, taps is played, and our unclaimed heroes are laid to rest. It is a solemn reminder that Iowa remembers every veteran.
Back to topUpcoming 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.
Back to topIowa Secretary of State Asks for Your Help in Upcoming City-School Elections!

Veterans for Voting is an initiative from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office to ensure
that the men and women who fought to keep our liberties safe have every tool available to confidently cast their ballot in this and every election.
2025 is a City-School Election year and Iowans will be able to cast their ballots for important races across the state on November 4! Unlike presidential elections, city-school elections are local elections and are important opportunities for residents to voteon policies that impact public safety, local education, property tax, municipal services, mayoral races, school boards, and city council positions. Participation in these elections directly influences local communities. Involvement ensures that elected officials reflect the values and respond to the needs of the citizens. Make a plan to vote in this election!
If unable to vote at the polls on election day, an absentee ballot may be requested through a written request form to your County Auditor. A written application for mailed absentee ballot must be received by your County Auditor no later than 5:00 pm 15 days before the election. Absentee request forms as well as County Auditor information is available on the Secretary of State website – sos.iowa.gov.
Make a plan and vote this City-School Election!
For more questions about the initiative, visit sos.iowa.gov, or email jaime.rutan@sos.iowa.gov.
Back to topVA Secretary Doug Collins Vists Central Iowa Health Care Services, Sept. 9th
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Event Highlights (Sept 15–Oct 15)
- River Valley Veterans Network — Wed, Sep 17 · 6:00 PM — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom, Des Moines
- POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony and Remembrance Run — Fri, Sep 19 · 8:00 AM — Iowa State Capitol, Des Moines. Commandant Jacobus will read and present the proclamation at this annual event hosted by the ISU Air Force ROTC program, a tradition at the Capitol for decades.
- Global War on Terror Wall of Remembrance — Wed–Sun, Sept 18–21 — Legion Field, Solon
Traveling memorial honoring those lost in the Global War on Terror. Escort departs Davenport on Sept. 18 at 8:45 a.m., with stops along I-80 en route to Solon. Commandant Todd Jacobus will speak at the Wall on Saturday, Sept. 20. - Southeast Iowa Job Fair (Des Moines County) — Thu, Sep 18 · 10:00 AM — Westland Mall, West Burlington
- Blue Star Mothers of Iowa “Hot Rods for Heroes” Car Show — Sat, Sep 20 · 8:00 AM — DMACC Ankeny Campus
- VFW POW/MIA 3rd Annual Poker Run — Sat, Sep 20 · 9:00 AM — VFW Post 6414, Riverside
- Armed Forces 250th Birthday Celebration — Sat, Sep 20 · 4:00 PM — Camp Dodge, Johnston
- Reunion: 34th Division Association — Fri, Sep 26 · 3:00 PM
- Golden Hawk Stand Down — Sat, Sep 27 (All day) — North Iowa Events Center, Mason City
- 34th Division Association Reunion — Sat, Sep 27 · 6:00 PM — Camp Dodge, Johnston
- Boone County Veterans Fair — Tue, Sep 30 · 9:00 AM — Boone County Fairgrounds
- Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs Fall Meeting, 10 a.m., Iowa Veterans Home
- IDVA Trust Fund Meeting — Wed, Oct 1 · 1:00 PM — Iowa Veterans Home, Marshalltown
- Company C, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment Reunion — Fri, Oct 3 · Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Adel
After 15 months of planning, this special reunion is coming to Iowa—the home state of George Fogarty of Elma, the unit’s first casualty (KIA Nov. 12, 1966). Hosting this event in Iowa is a tribute to his sacrifice and legacy. - Final Salute Ceremony & Interment — Sat, Oct 4 · 9:30 AM Visitation, 11:00 AM Service, 1:00 PM Interment — Hope Lutheran Church, Waukee & Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Adel
- Abigail Adams Chapter Event — Sat, Oct 4 · 11:00 AM — State Historical Building, Des Moines
Hosted alongside the American Revolution Experience traveling exhibit, which the chapter helped bring to Iowa. - SAR Revolutionary War Dedication — Sat, Oct 4 · 1:00 PM — Iowa State Capitol Grounds, Des Moines
Dedication ceremony for the 41st Iowa Revolutionary War veteran’s name engraved on the Revolutionary War marker. - Public Meeting: Administrative Rules (Chs. 2, 3, 4, 6) — Wed, Oct 8 · 2:00 PM
- Leif Eriksson Day — Thu, Oct 9 (All day)
- Iowa’s Roast n’ Ride — Sat, Oct 11 · 10:00 AM — Big Barn Harley-Davidson, Des Moines
- 250th U.S. Navy Birthday — Mon, Oct 13 (All day)
Celebrating 250 years of the United States Navy’s service and heritage. - River Valley Veterans Network — Wed, Oct 15 · 6:00 PM
Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs Fall Quarterly Meeting, Oct. 1st

The ICVA Fall Quarterly Commision meeting is Oct. 1st at 10 a.m. at Iowa Veterans Home. 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. We have room for 24 vendors this year, so applications will be available soon on the IDVA web page.
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.
Back to topGovernment Relations Update

Legislative and Advocacy Updates
August began with a visit from Senator Grassley’s office on August 7, where representatives toured the Iowa Veterans Home and discussed federal issues, focusing on VA reimbursements for pharmaceuticals and durable medical equipment.
On August 11, the Iowa State Fair Veterans Parade brought together parade units from IVH, legislators, and thousands of Iowans. Members of the Iowa House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees were in attendance—several for the first time—and remarked on the event’s significance and spirit of celebration.
The following day, August 12, the Iowa National Guard Legislative Day at Camp Dodge gave lawmakers, staff, and liaisons the opportunity to receive updates on Army and Air operations, tour facilities, test the weapons simulator, and even ride in a UH-60 Black Hawk. The flight path took participants over the Iowa State Fairgrounds and the State Capitol before returning to Camp Dodge. Many National Guard staff who regularly visit IVH were part of the briefings, making it a meaningful opportunity to reconnect.
Sept. 4th, IDVA Legislative Liaison Mike Olson attended the ribbon cutting for Black Hawk County's new Veterans Affairs office located at 1210 Idaho Street in Waterloo. Executive Director Yolando Loveless was joined by county veterans commissioners, county supervisors, and many local elected officials in cutting the ribbon for this new facility which will serve area veterans for years to come. Congratulations to all who made this happen and thank you for your service to Iowa's veterans!
As one IVH leader noted, “It is always great to see those who now fill the ranks behind us doing such an outstanding job for their state and nation.”
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OSINT for Vets: News Analysis & Takeaways
Coverage Period: August 15- September 15, 2025
Read Full Stories
Back to topBLUF (Bottom Line Up Front — summary analysis)
Iowa communities showed strong support for veterans through remembrance events, program expansions, and service access wins. Nationally, debate intensified over the domestic use of the National Guard, VA/Tricare policy changes, and protection of veterans’ benefits and mental health care. Veterans remain one of the most trusted sub-cultures in America. Leaders across the political spectrum seek veterans’ approval and may highlight their service to strengthen partisan positions. Iowa veterans should be aware of these dynamics and remain cautious that their trust and service are not politicized.
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Line of Sight (current issues covered)

International
- 9/11 Remembrance Abroad: Allied ceremonies and U.S. events (AP, Americans Mark the 24th Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks) highlighted the enduring global impact of the GWOT.
- Afghanistan & Allies: Coverage of Afghan relocation programs (Military.com, Effort to Revive Afghan Relocations to US Garners Bipartisan Support) tied veterans’ service to current international commitments.
National
- Policy & Benefits: VA announced record-breaking disability claims processed with a 62% approval rate (Military.com), while TRICARE ended coverage of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for retirees (Military Times). GI Bill rates were updated for 2025–2026 (Military.com).
- Public Safety & Guard: Debate intensified after President Trump signaled expanded National Guard use in cities (AP, Trump’s Push to Take Over DC Policing; Military.com, Trump Expands Cities Targeted for Possible Military Deployment).
- Integrity & Fraud: Leaders of a Georgia-based church were indicted for swindling millions in military benefits (AP), and a Maine veteran was accused of faking his death to avoid fraud charges (Military.com).
- Commemoration & Community: National remembrance events, plus studies into cancer risks among military aviators (Air & Space Forces Magazine), kept service and sacrifice in the news.
Iowa
- Access & Services: Hancock and Black Hawk Counties opened or expanded VA offices (KIOW, Mix 107.3; KGAN), while Warren County reported serving 744 veterans in one month (Indianola Independent Advocate).
- VA Engagement: U.S. VA Secretary Doug Collins visited Des Moines VA to pledge faster decisions and reduced bureaucracy (KCCI).
- Community & Remembrance: Muscatine and Marshalltown hosted 9/11 events (KWQC; Marshalltown T-R), while Solon prepared to welcome the GWOT Wall of Remembrance (Solon Economist). Vet Fest in Davenport drew strong community turnout (Quad-City Times).
- Advocacy & Workforce: Union-led rallies over staffing at the Iowa City VA drew local coverage (Des Moines Register; KGAN). Hy-Vee was nationally recognized for veteran hiring and support (Business Record). Iowa DNR rolled out a disabled veteran deer tag option (KCAU).
- Well-Being: Local coverage highlighted suicide prevention outreach (KWQC, Veterans Voices), adaptive sports opportunities (Morningstar), and veteran food distribution (Ottumwa Radio).
Over the Horizon: Media Forecast for Vets
International
- Expect continued coverage of Afghan allies and refugee resettlement, with periodic stories connecting U.S. veterans’ legacy to global commitments.
- WWII and Vietnam commemorations (e.g., Kearney Hub, 40 Years of Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Reunions) will keep allied remembrance visible.
National
- Guard & Governance: Stories like Task & Purpose, Former Generals Say LA, DC Deployments Harm Troop Morale suggest ongoing coverage of Guard domestic use.
- Care & Coverage: Expect focus on Tricare policy changes (Military Times), VA staffing shortages (Military.com, Watchdog Finds 50% Increase in VA Medical Center Jobs), and caregiver lawsuits (Military.com).
- Politics & Perception: Both parties will continue seeking credibility through veterans, as seen in AP, Trump Honors Fallen US Service Members and Sen. Ernst’s 9/11 Statements (KIMT).
Iowa
- Coverage will expand around the GWOT Wall of Remembrance in Solon (Solon Economist) and upcoming Gold Star family events (KWQC, Eldridge Banquet).
- County-level service growth and VA staffing protests (Des Moines Register, Save Our VA Rally) will remain front-page stories.
- Expect more reporting on benefits awareness and rural access, especially with DNR’s new hunting tags and Luther College’s cemetery survey (Iowa Capitol Dispatch).
Rhumb Lines & Ranger Beads: Navigating Themes & Messages
International
- Theme: Iowa veterans are part of a global story of remembrance and service.
- Message Guidance: Tie local ceremonies (Muscatine, Solon) to international observances (AP 9/11 coverage) to reinforce global connections.
National
- Theme: Trust, access, and fairness.
- Message Guidance: Share Iowa’s proactive steps on fraud prevention and benefits literacy while acknowledging debates on Guard use (Military Times, AP). Emphasize that veterans’ trust must remain above partisanship.
Iowa
- Theme: Community strength and tangible support.
- Message Guidance: Spotlight Iowa’s new county VA offices, Solon GWOT Wall, and adaptive sports clinics. Balance stories of progress (Hy-Vee hiring, county expansions) with transparency about challenges (Iowa City VA staffing protests).
- Read Full Stories
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Benefits & Cemetery Bureau Update
August and September have been busy and meaningful months for the Iowa Veterans Benefits team and the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
At the cemetery, 71 interments were conducted with dignity and respect, reflecting Iowa’s ongoing commitment to honor those who served.
The Benefits team was active across the state, taking part in 15 outreach events, including a strong presence at the Iowa State Fair. On Veterans Day at the Fair (August 11), staff hosted an information booth to connect veterans with state and federal benefits, while also helping to organize and participate in the Veterans Parade.
For our VA topic of the month, check out these two helpful articles on Military.com: DD214: What You Need to Know & How to Use Military Discounts While Traveling.
Back to topIowa Veterans Home Update
Upcoming Speakers
Two major public events are scheduled:
- Major General Irfete Spahiu, veteran of the Kosovo Liberation Army and senior leader in the Kosovo Security Forces, will speak at IVH on September 15.
- Command Chief Warrant Officer Joedy VanVelzen, retired aviator and police officer, will share his 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail journey later this year.
Durable Medical Equipment Costs
A federal policy change now requires state veterans homes to cover the cost of certain durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, mattresses, and mobility devices) for residents with 70%+ service-connected disabilities. IDVA leadership is working closely with the VA to limit impacts on residents.
Employee Engagement & Improvements
Results from the 2025 Employee Engagement Survey identified areas for growth, including communication, teamwork, and staffing. Leadership has pledged to improve transparency, validate staff concerns, and strengthen trust across the organization.
Recognizing Superior Performance
August award winners included:
- Champion Award – Vanessa Rodimaker (Resident Assistant)
- Nursing Poppy Award – Laura Ihde (Registered Nurse, nominated eight times for her teamwork and dedication)
- Food Service Poppy Award – Marcia Stowe (Food Service Worker, praised for reliability and extra effort
Full News Stories from the OSINT Report
Back to topIowa's Future Vets in the News
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