Each year, Ames comes together for Veterans Day to remember, reflect and show gratitude to those who have served. The morning’s Veterans Day program began with remarks from Mayor John Haila, who spoke on behalf of Ames, reminding us of the legacy these veterans hold.

“Each November, we set aside a day in our country… to honor all US veterans, deceased or living,” Haila said.

Haila described the symbolism of the Ames Veterans Memorial, saying, “The eagle representing strength, the flag representing unity and the dove representing peace.”

Pointing out the six limestone blocks that symbolize each branch of the military, Haila encouraged all present to pause and remember those who served.

Post Commander Cliff Barker followed with words that filled the room with gratitude and reflection.

“Veterans Day is not just a day for veterans,” Barker said. “It’s a day for all Americans to remember why they were fighting.”

He emphasized that protecting freedom isn’t just the work of the military but a shared responsibility.

“We can protect our freedom simply by maintaining it,” Barker said. “We must put our freedoms into action and never surrender them.”

He continued by reminding all to take an active role, saying that we could do this through “volunteering in our communities, caring for each other, defending our way of life, and by teaching our children what it really means to be an American.”

Staff Sergeant Madison Lihs, an Iowa State student and a member of the Iowa Air National Guard, spoke at the event.

Lihs began by recounting the history behind Veterans Day.

“Today, we reflect on the service of the strong men and women who came before us and are still standing with us today,” Lihs said.

She spoke about lessons from her service, including adaptability and resilience.

“Structure is your best friend,” Lihs said, capturing the experiences of many service members.

In an interview after the ceremony, Lihs shared how meaningful the event felt to her, especially for its local focus.

“You get Ames veterans here, you get people like me who might not necessarily be from Ames but might have a huge presence on campus,” Lihs said.

She continued by explaining how this local gathering shows the supportive, tight-knit spirit of the Ames community.

Tim Gartin, the Ames Patriotic Council President, shared his thoughts on the significance of Veterans Day.

“We forget easily… and so we need reminders like Veterans Day to cause us to pause and reflect,” Gartin said.

He spoke about the personal connections that Veterans Day brings to mind, saying, “the sacrifice they made for our country” inspires him each year as he reflects on his relationships with friends and family who have served.

Lihs also noted the changing face of the military, particularly with more young women joining.

“I have a big voice and take up space in every room I’m in,” Lihs said. Her words expressed her hope for the new generation of servicewomen and her commitment to showing them how women can succeed and lead in the military.

The ceremony ended with a musical tribute led by local veteran Jim DeHoet, who invited attendees to join in singing the songs of each military branch.

“Now, if you veterans don’t stand for your branch, I’ll be real lonely up here,” DeHoet said with a smile, drawing laughter from the crowd.

As each branch’s song played, veterans stood with pride, representing their service. The music filled the hall, offering a beautiful moment of shared respect and reflection.

The Ames Veterans Day ceremony was a powerful reminder of the connections we share and the sacrifices veterans have made for our freedom.

“Veterans Day serves as a powerful reminder… to honor not just our service, but the long-lasting impact of our connections, actions and legacy,” Lihs said.