Friday was a somber day at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, where we paid final respects to twenty service members and five of their spouses – each one of them unclaimed by family.
These brave unclaimed veterans came from diverse backgrounds and their service spanned from the Civil War to the Vietnam War. While each service member had a different life story, they were united in their service tour and defense of our country. Until last week, they hadn’t even received the military burial they deserved. We must always remember that just because their remains are unclaimed, it does not mean their service is forgotten. Unclaimed remains services are essential to honor the legacy of every veteran.
Throughout the day, we heard the stories of soldiers like Joseph Chedester, a Tennessee soldier who fought for the Union during the American Civil War. Tragically, when he died in Des Moines in 1929, his remains were never claimed. We learned about Ms. Mary Lou Parker, a trailblazing Navy veteran who served during the Korean War.
These men and women won’t be forgotten – their courage, dedication, and sacrifice are the very foundation of our freedom, and their stories will live on for the next generation.