Yesterday, before attending a Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area Board of Trustees meeting in Waterloo, Iowa, I finally took the time to stop at a place I’ve driven by countless times - the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum. I’m so glad I did!
The museum is part of the Grout Museum District, which is a member of the Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area. This heritage area is a network of museums and historical sites in the Northeast quadrant of Iowa that collectively tell the story of Iowa and the heritage of American agriculture. It’s an honor for me to begin my term this year as a board member for such an impactful organization.
The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum truly brings history to life with its interactive displays and wealth of information on Iowa's role in all of America’s wars and conflicts. When I arrived, I received a dog tag that made the visit feel even more personal. Scanning it in each war or conflict area revealed what life would have been like for someone from Iowa during that time. My tag represented an 8-year-old girl from Cedar Falls, which added a unique perspective to my journey through history.
I was especially impressed with the Voice of Veterans videos, which featured interviews with Iowa veterans from WWII to today. Hearing their stories firsthand was moving and gave a voice to the names and faces we honor.
The section on the Sullivan Brothers was deeply informative. I learned so much more about this heroic family whose sacrifice is a cornerstone of Iowa's military history.
I spent a significant amount of time in the Vietnam War section, where I found information about my husband’s uncle, who was killed in action during the war. It was a touching moment of personal connection within the broader historical record.
 |
| PFC Roger Lee Gertsen United States Marine Corps KIA March 31, 1966 |
Another highlight was seeing a display about the 34th Red Bull Division in the WWII area. My youngest sister served with this division during its mission in Iraq, and I was struck by how its legacy continues today.
I also discovered a fascinating fact: during WWII, John Deere workers in Iowa helped build nearly 50,000 Sherman tanks — a testament to the state’s contributions on the home front.
It’s amazing how often we pass by incredible places right in our own backyards without stopping to explore. This museum left me with a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made and the stories preserved within its walls. If you’ve ever thought about visiting, don’t wait like I did — take the time to discover what’s just around the corner.
Have you visited the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum? If so, what stood out to you?
(For more information on the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum and other heritage sites, visit the Silos & Smokestacks website to explore this impressive network of historical locations. Other sites in the Cedar Valley include the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum and Hartman Reserve Nature Center.)
When I was in New orleans earlier this year I took my daughters to the National WWII Museum. as might be expected, for teenagers it eas a bit hard to hold their interest. But, I tried to get them to imagine the experience of a young man who might never have been more than a hundred miles from Des Moines, IA and who learns he's on his way to (say) Saipan or Tarawa - places he's never heard of. So many people would have emerged incredibly changed even apart from the war.
ReplyDeleteHow true!
DeleteCustom lax pinnies are often reversible, offering two color options in one garment, which is especially useful for team drills and intra-squad games. Whether for youth leagues, high school teams, or competitive clubs, these personalized pinnies combine functionality with team pride.
ReplyDelete"Car Bethel near me" likely refers to a nearby car rental service or dealership named "Car Bethel." This type of business typically offers a variety of vehicles for rent or sale, catering to different needs such as daily commutes, weekend trips, or longer-term rentals. Located conveniently for local access, Car Bethel might provide customers with flexible rental plans, competitive pricing, and a range of vehicle options from compact cars to SUVs.
ReplyDeletePayroll services refer to the management and processing of employee compensation by a third-party provider or internal department. These services ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time while adhering to relevant tax laws and labor regulations. Payroll services typically include calculating wages, withholding taxes, managing direct deposits, issuing pay slips, and filing government reports.
ReplyDeleteLogan Black Car Service is a premier transportation provider based in Boston, Massachusetts, offering luxurious and reliable chauffeur services across the city and in over 800 locations worldwide. With more than five years of experience, the company has built a reputation for exceptional customer service, catering to a diverse clientele that includes celebrities, entrepreneurs, and corporate executives. Their extensive fleet features a variety of high-end vehicles, such as executive sedans, premium SUVs, and spacious vans, all meticulously maintained and equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort and safety.
ReplyDeleteSite demolition in Sydney involves the systematic process of dismantling and clearing existing structures to prepare land for new construction or redevelopment. This service is essential for urban development projects, infrastructure upgrades, and property renovations. In Sydney, site demolition is carried out in accordance with strict safety, environmental, and regulatory standards to ensure minimal disruption to surrounding areas.
ReplyDelete"Washcare Barcode Ribbon" refers to a specialized type of ribbon used in the labeling and printing of care instructions for garments, particularly in the textile and apparel industry. These ribbons are designed to print barcode labels that include essential wash care information, such as symbols or codes that guide consumers on how to wash, dry, and iron clothing. The ribbons are durable and resistant to heat, moisture, and fading, ensuring that the washcare labels remain legible throughout the garment’s life.
ReplyDeleteA "social media panel" is an online platform or service that allows users to manage, track, and enhance their social media presence across multiple platforms from a single interface. These panels typically offer features such as scheduling posts, automating content, analyzing engagement metrics, and managing advertisements. They may also provide tools to increase followers, likes, comments, and other forms of social media engagement. Social media panels are commonly used by businesses, influencers, and marketers to streamline their social media management processes and improve their online reach and performance.
ReplyDelete"Grab Near Me" typically refers to the ability to quickly locate and access a Grab service nearby, whether it’s a ride, delivery, or other services offered by Grab. This feature is commonly found within the Grab app, which allows users to search for available drivers, food delivery options, or other services in their vicinity. By using location services, Grab can provide real-time updates about the nearest available vehicles, couriers, or service providers. It’s designed to make it more convenient for users to book rides or services with minimal waiting time, ensuring a faster and more efficient experience.
ReplyDelete