On Veterans Day, November 11, 2026, KCCI anchor Ben Kaplan led a 30‑minute television special that celebrated the men and women who have defended our nation from central Iowa. The program, which aired at 6:30 p.m. and is now available for streaming, highlighted personal stories of bravery, sacrifice, and community service.
Preserving History Through a Family Helicopter
Retired Marine pilot Nick Turner was featured as the custodian of a Vietnam‑era helicopter once flown by his father. Turner now maintains the aircraft and shares its history with Iowans, using the machine as a tangible link to a generation of service members who fought overseas.
Voices of Iowa Oral‑History Project Grows
The special noted that more than 1,700 Iowa veterans from 70 counties have contributed their oral histories to the “Voices of Iowa” archive at the Sullivan Brothers Museum. The archive, a collaborative effort between the museum and local schools, continues to expand as students record interviews and preserve first‑hand accounts for future generations.
Historic Leadership Milestone
Native Iowan Carol Whitmore was honored for becoming the first Iowan and the first woman to serve as national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the organization’s 126‑year history. Whitmore’s achievement underscores the growing role of women in veteran leadership and serves as an inspiration to younger service members.
Friendship Across the Corps
Two Urbandale neighbors, Vietnam veteran Robert Abram and longtime Marine Michael Cayer, demonstrated the enduring bonds of military service. Abram, who is battling Parkinson’s disease, receives regular visits from Cayer, who continues to stand by his fellow Marine. Together they raise the American flag on Veterans Day, a simple yet powerful reminder of their shared commitment.
Community Impact and Future Plans
KCCI’s special emphasized how veteran stories enrich local schools and civic life. By bringing veterans into classrooms and community events, the program aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and to encourage younger generations to honor that legacy.
Viewers can watch the full special on KCCI’s website, where the station also provides additional resources for veterans and families seeking support services throughout Iowa.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
