Remembering the Forgotten: Ceremony Honors 20 Unclaimed Veterans in West Des Moines

Photo of author
Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

This moving ceremony in West Des Moines honored the memory of 20 unclaimed veterans and five spouses whose remains had gone unnoticed for decades, some since the Civil War.

Held at the West Des Moines Christian Church, the event was marked by a solemn tribute, paying respect to those who once served their country but were long forgotten.

Veterans spanning from the Civil War through the Vietnam War were recognized, their urns carried by flag bearers. Iowa National Guard Capt.

Tim Hadley led the group in prayer, followed by powerful words from Rich Shipley of the Patriot Guard Riders, who highlighted the collective 877 years these veterans spent unclaimed.

Today we stand as their family… Today we end the chapter of them being forgotten, Shipley said.

Rep. Zach Nunn, an Air Force colonel, delivered remarks honoring Iowa’s history of military service and the significance of recognizing those who sacrificed for the nation.

The ceremony featured music by Lee Greenwood and Danny Grause, creating a poignant atmosphere for this overdue tribute.

The veterans and spouses were finally laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, ensuring their service would no longer go unnoticed.

This event was organized in part by The Final Salute, a nonprofit that has honored 70 unclaimed veterans since 2018, led by Lanae Strovers of Hamilton’s Funeral Home.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring those who served, even long after they are gone.

Notable honorees included Civil War veteran Joseph Chedester, whose rediscovered remains now rest with a special headstone, marking the end of a long journey to recognition.

 

Leave a Comment