The Benton County, Iowa, Post 218 of the Amvets and Vinton, Iowa, American Legion George G. Luckey Post 57, Adjutant Doug Wood (left), with longtime Post 57 member Ken Silker, prepare to raise a new flag, obtained through Post 57, at the Lutheran Living Communities Campus.

As we approach the Memorial Day holiday, it is critical for all veterans to be aware of the importance of joining area veterans’ organizations. These local groups serve the community by providing Honor Guards at veteran funerals, putting up flags around the community for patriotic holidays, hosting local Memorial Day services, and other community service projects. Strong memberships in area veterans’ organizations also helps to remind our members of Congress to allocate appropriate funding for programs to assist veterans in need.

Editor's Note: Thank you to all of our area veterans for your past and continued services on behalf of our communities!