Organizers have awarded the Wapello County Veteran of the Year honor to Russell Goering, recognizing his decades of military service and years of dedication to helping others in the community.
Goering’s widow, Kim Goering, accepted the award on his behalf. Organizers noted this marks the first time the Veteran of the Year award has been presented posthumously.
Goering served for decades in both the United States Army and Army Reserve. Following his military service, he continued giving back through years of volunteering and community involvement.
Those recognizing Goering remembered him as someone who genuinely cared about others and had “never met a stranger.”
During the presentation, Kim shared a personal reflection on her husband’s dedication to serving others.
“He didn’t like dealing with the beer bureaucracy, but he loved the people he was serving,” Kim said.
Russell Goering is laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa.
The award serves as a tribute to Goering’s military service, commitment to his community, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those around him.
