Co-ops Team Up For Veteran Flagpole Donation

Our veterans and power linemen share one characteristic in common: When things get bad, they run toward the trouble, not away from it. 

Each year on Nov. 11, we recognize the contributions and sacrifices our military veterans have made to this country. As electric cooperatives, we have many veterans among our own ranks, and Veterans Day is a great time to thank them for their service. 

Formed in 2021, the Veteran Flagpole Initiative (VFI) funds and installs flagpoles in the yards of veterans at no cost. This permanent and visual reminder of the service and sacrifice of our military members has become quite popular. To date, the organization has installed 155 flagpoles and has a growing waiting list. 

In mid-October, VFI received a $4,500 donation from T.I.P. REC, Grundy County REC, Butler County REC, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Corn Belt Power Cooperative and CIPCO. The funds will cover the cost of installing nine flagpoles. 

“Presently, we have over 200 veterans awaiting flagpoles,” the organization stated in a social post about the donation. “This will allow us to make one of the most fulfilling phone calls, which is to inform a veteran that they have been selected!” 

In August, Sen. Chuck Grassley specifically called out VFI’s work in his floor remarks before the Senate.

“Looking after those around us provides a valuable lesson because you never know what someone else may be facing,” he said. “And the very small acts – as well as the big acts of service – may turn out to have monumental impact. Thank you, Veteran Flagpole Initiative, and the many other organizations and individuals that support our veterans daily.” 

^{Pictured in news card image above from left: Allyson Miller, Grundy Co. REC; Anne Gardiner, Butler Co. REC; Tyler Schick, VFI, Derek Snakenberg, Grundy Co. REC; and Scott Long, CEO/G.M., T.I.P. REC.}