Jefferson military veteran organizations are seeking local veterans to help with funeral ceremonies.

Jefferson American Legion Post #11 and Jefferson Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #9599 are asking for younger veterans to serve with the Honor Guard. Current veterans who serve as the Honor Guard, which provides the firing detail and playing of Taps, are aging out. The average age for a World War II veteran is 94 years-old, a Korean War veteran is 88 and a Vietnam veteran is 71.

A funeral home will contact the American Legion or VFW when there is a recognition for a military veteran, which calls for the Honor Guard. Both organizations say when a fallen military veteran is laid to rest, the Honor Guard is the last benefit they receive. 

Any veteran wanting to serve with the Honor Guard can contact American Legion Post #11 Commander Kenneth Arbuckle at 515-370-1755 or email at kennetha@netins.net, or VFW Post #9599 Commander James Wasson at 515-230-6793 or email at vfwpost9599@gmail.com.