On a crisp Wednesday morning, the Iowa Veterans Cemetery became a gathering place for veterans, their families, and local supporters. The event, co‑hosted by the cemetery and Hy‑Vee, featured a free breakfast and heartfelt remarks that highlighted the patriotism and sacrifice of Iowa’s service members.
Veterans Share Personal Reflections
Phil Maloney, a Vietnam veteran, spoke of the opportunity to honor friends who never returned home. “They were college friends, they were just terrific people. Great guys, really good,” he said, underscoring the personal loss felt by many who served.
Marine veteran Patrick Pins added, “Service people are a special breed. They’ve served their country. They’ve given it all and everything.” His words resonated with the crowd, reminding everyone of the dedication required of those in uniform.
Army veteran Sherdian Bosch, who served in Korea, highlighted the value of reconnecting with fellow veterans. “It’s seeing the other people, the other vets,” he said, emphasizing the bonds formed through shared experience.
Tim Oujiri, a 31‑year Army veteran, summed up the spirit of the day: “It’s all camaraderie. We don’t leave anybody behind. Everybody gets back together and we’re all together.”
Governor‑Elect Rob Sand Joins the Celebration
Governor‑elect Rob Sand attended both the Hy‑Vee breakfast and the cemetery ceremony, greeting veterans and expressing gratitude for their service. His presence signaled continued state support for Iowa’s veteran community.
Commandant’s Remarks on Service and Sacrifice
Todd Jacobus, Commandant of the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, offered a reflective tribute. “We know it’s a life that was not meant for everyone to fully understand. But we know the calling. We know the treasure, the good days, the weight of the hard days, and that the easiest one was yesterday,” he said, acknowledging both the challenges and the honor of military service.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, allowing attendees to honor fallen comrades and celebrate the enduring bonds of fellowship.
Community Impact
Events like this underscore the importance of local support for veterans, reinforcing the values of family, faith, and liberty that define Iowa’s communities. By providing a space for gratitude and remembrance, the Iowa Veterans Cemetery and Hy‑Vee help ensure that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
