DES MOINES – Today, during the Administration’s weekly press conference, Gov. Terry Branstad was joined by Major General Timothy Orr of the Iowa National Guard, Colonel Bob King of the Iowa Department of Veteran’s Affairs and Jason Kemp of the Home Base Iowa initiative to highlight Veteran’s Day events in Iowa. The governor is encouraging members of the public to actively participate and remember those who have valiantly served our nation.
On Veteran’s Day, Gov. Branstad will be participating in the 93.3 KIOA Vets of Valor Radiothon, which is helping raise money and awareness for the American Legion of Iowa’s Veterans Services and Assistance Programs. All of the donations will stay in Iowa and be used within the American Legion of Iowa to help provide assistance through our service officers, and assistance programs for Iowa veterans and their families.
Major General Tim Orr and Colonel Bob King provided a list of events that member of the public can partake in. A full comprehensive list can be found here. Information on the Gold Star Museum at Camp Dodge can also be found here.
Jason Kemp, new Home Base Iowa manager and retired Master Sergeant, provided the press and the general public with an update on the Home Base Iowa initiative. The bi-partisan Home Back Iowa initiative that Gov. Branstad spearheaded in 2013 has led to:
· The hiring of over 1,500 veterans in Iowa.
· 900 businesses have become Home Base Iowa businesses where 10% of the businesses in the community commit and pledge to hiring veterans.
· 24 communities around the state have become Home Base Iowa communities thus far.
· 16 educational institutions have become CHAMPs (Certified Higher Academic Military Partners).
