The Linn County Veteran Services Department has launched a Veteran of the Month award program to recognize the contributions of local veterans.

“The purpose of this program is to honor local veterans who served honorably in the United States Armed Forces and continue to show a strong commitment to their communities through ongoing service and leadership,” Linn County Veteran Services Director Dustin Peterson said.

The online application form is available on Linn County’s website, LinnCountyIowa.gov. Nominations are due by the first day of each month. Anyone can nominate a veteran for this recognition; however, the veteran must be a Linn County, Iowa, resident. Veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, including National Guard, Coast Guard, and Reserve members, are eligible.

Recipients are selected by a committee of local veteran community members. Each veteran selected from the nominations will be honored with a Card My Yard display for one weekend during their recognition month. The Card My Yard display is a public tribute displayed at the veteran’s home.

“Veterans often continue to serve their communities after their military careers end,” said Peterson, a Marine veteran. “This award helps recognize and honor those ongoing contributions and supports our mission to serve each veteran and remember their service. If you know a veteran who deserves recognition, please consider nominating them for this award.”

Linn County Veteran Services helps veterans and their families apply for the federal, state, and local benefits that veterans have earned. All services are provided free of charge. Learn more and nominate a veteran at LinnCountyIowa.gov/Veteran.