A heartfelt tribute to local military heroes has taken root in Iowa Falls with the grand opening of the Heartland Military Museum on May 24, 2025. Situated at 313 Stevens Street, the museum officially opened its doors to the public from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM CDT, welcoming visitors of all ages to explore the history and sacrifices of the region’s veterans.
The initiative, led by the Iowa Falls Historical Society, is the community’s latest effort to ensure the stories of local service members are preserved and shared for generations to come. The event began with a special documentary screening at The Met theater, followed by the museum’s public debut.
A Visual Tribute
One of the event’s emotional high points was the unveiling of a striking 12×8-foot mural created by artist Thomas Burchfield. The mural vividly portrays the experiences and sacrifices of area veterans, capturing the attention of visitors and setting a respectful tone for the museum’s mission.
Burchfield, known for his emotionally resonant military art, worked with families and historical records to include authentic depictions of local servicemen and women. “This mural is not just art—it’s a conversation piece, a reminder, and a memorial,” he said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Stories That Live On
Among the museum’s many exhibits is a powerful feature on a World War II nurse from Iowa Falls, bringing attention to the often-overlooked roles women played in wartime. Through personal items, letters, and multimedia displays, her contributions are honored alongside those of combat veterans.
Interactive stations allow visitors to explore maps, hear oral histories, and learn about the personal journeys of soldiers from Iowa Falls who served in conflicts from World War I to Afghanistan.
Local veteran John Mitchell, who attended the opening, said, “It’s about time our town had something like this. Seeing our stories respected and preserved—it means the world.”
Free Documentary Screening
Before the museum opened, attendees gathered at The Met to watch a special screening of The Fighting Spirit, a moving documentary that follows the lives of military chaplains through war zones and peace missions. The film, which earned recognition at the Sundance Film Festival in 2024, set a thoughtful tone for the day’s events.
The film was selected to highlight the emotional and spiritual resilience of military personnel, reinforcing the museum’s focus on honoring not just service, but humanity and personal sacrifice.
Activities for All Ages
The museum launch wasn’t just a ceremonial affair—it included hands-on activities for younger attendees. From a scavenger hunt through the museum to interactive displays where kids could learn about military uniforms and gear, the event aimed to educate and inspire future generations.
“Many children only learn about war from textbooks,” said museum volunteer Sarah Lang. “Here, they get to see the faces and hear the voices of those who lived it.”
A Community Effort
The Heartland Military Museum is the result of tireless efforts by volunteers, donors, and veterans themselves. Local fundraising campaigns, artifact donations, and grants made the museum possible. The Iowa Falls Historical Society spearheaded the project, hoping it would become a cornerstone of community remembrance.
Mayor David Hansen applauded the initiative during his speech. “This museum stands as a beacon of respect for those who served and as a teaching space for those still learning what service truly means.”
Visiting Information
The museum is currently open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Entry is free during the initial opening weeks. Veterans and their families are especially encouraged to visit and contribute their stories.
