A programs is underway again this year that takes unwanted deer hides from hunters across the state and uses them to help veterans. Spokesperson Lisa Widick says the hides can be turned in at Elks Lodges across the state for use by the Veterans Leather Program. "The hides are salted and stored … [Read more...]
Iowa lawmakers chide Veterans Administration for GI Bill benefit payment problems
It's unclear when or even if veterans who've been short-changed on their "Forever GI Bill" benefits may get what they're owed. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican who is a combat veteran, is among those who've asked the Veterans Administration for an explanation. "Someone from the VA had indicated … [Read more...]
Event honoring fallen soldiers scheduled for Saturday on UNI campus
A special program that honors soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice will take place Saturday on the UNI campus in Cedar Falls. It's called "Dedication to Iowa’s Fallen" and will feature the presentation of wooden carved battle crosses to the families of 10 soldiers from Iowa who died while … [Read more...]
Sioux City native to take over command of hometown 185th Air Guard Wing
A change of command is taking place at Sioux City's 185th Air Refueling National Guard Unit. The Iowa National Guard says Sioux City native Colonel Mark Muckey has been selected as the next Wing Commander of the unit. Colonel Muckey says it's a great opportunity to come home 30 years after he … [Read more...]
Sioux City residents head to Maryland for christening of namesake ship
Around 50 people boarded a bus this afternoon in Sioux City for a 1,200-mile long trip to Annapolis, Maryland to witness the commissioning of the U.S.S. Sioux City. The ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy is scheduled for Saturday morning. Kim Huffman is making the trip with her son. "It's a … [Read more...]
Ceremonies planned to welcome back soldiers in Boone, Davenport, Waterloo, Muscatine
Events are planned at the end of the week in four cities to welcome back Iowa National Guard soldiers from their overseas deployment. Guard spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Wunn says about 350 members of the 248th Aviation Support Battalion will be recognized. He says they have been gone for … [Read more...]
Senator Grassley supports the use of troops on the Mexican border
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says he supports the troop buildup on the U.S. border with Mexico as a caravan of several thousand Central American migrants approaches. Initially, 800 active duty soldiers were going to be dispatched to the border. Now, the number is over five-thousand troops, combined … [Read more...]
Senator Grassley says president can use troops to keep border secure
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says he would support President Donald Trump sending armed troops to the U.S. border with Mexico to stop what Grassley calls an "invasion" by a large caravan of immigrants. As many as 7,000 people, on foot, are headed northward to seek asylum. Grassley says soldiers … [Read more...]
Medic becomes first African-American Sergeant Major in Iowa Army National Guard
A 37-year veteran of the Iowa Army National has become the first African-American promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major in the organization. Sergeant Major is the highest enlisted rank you can reach without becoming an officer. Sergeant Jeffrey Lewis of Johnston has been in the Iowa Guard for 37 … [Read more...]
Veterans take to the field in special eastern Iowa pheasant hunt
More than 50 veterans from all military branches took part in a special pheasant hunt in eastern Iowa Sunday. The "Heroes Hunt" pairs injured war vets with professional hunters and dogs. Wade Kinser, with Linn County Pheasants Forever, told KCRG-TV this was the fifth year for the event. "I think … [Read more...]