After years of military service overseas, John Thompson found his toughest battle wasn’t on foreign soil—it was here at home. A U.S. Army veteran who served with the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, John saw firsthand the struggles veterans face long after the battlefield. That experience led him and his wife, Misti, to start Salute to the Fallen, a nonprofit based in Cedar Rapids.
What began as a way to honor fallen service members quickly evolved into something more urgent: helping prevent veteran suicide. The organization now provides crisis support, mental health resources, and a compassionate network for veterans and their families. They’ve guided grieving families through more than 400 funeral services and answered hundreds of crisis calls from those who didn’t know where else to turn.
John’s work isn’t driven by headlines or honors. It’s personal. He knows the weight many veterans carry and the importance of showing up—especially when things get dark. Misti, who works alongside him, sees the toll it can take, but also the hope it brings to others.
Through funeral escort therapy, peer outreach, and community events, Salute to the Fallen has touched nearly 850 lives across Iowa. For John and Misti, it’s not just a mission—it’s a promise to never let a fellow veteran feel forgotten.
To learn more or get involved, visit Salute to the Fallen online and see how you can support Iowa’s veteran community.
Courtesy KCRG.COM
