Nebraska WWII Veteran Honor Program Applications Now Open

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs have announced the opening of applications for the state's World War II Veteran Recognition Program. This program honors living Nebraskan WWII veterans in 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the war's end. Applications are now available for veterans who served between December 1, 1941, and December 31, 1946, and who were legal Nebraska residents at the time of their service and discharge.

Nebraska World War II Veteran Recognition Program Opens for Applications

Lincoln, Nebraska - February 2, 2023 - Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs (NDVA) announced today that applications are now available for the Nebraska World War II Veteran Recognition Program, established to honor living Nebraska veterans of World War II on the 80th anniversary of the war's end in 2025.

"Those who fought in World War II are rightfully known as the 'greatest generation' for their selfless sacrifice and unwavering determination in vanquishing an abhorrent evil that threatened to engulf the world," said Governor Pillen. "Our state recognition program serves as a modest yet profound expression of our boundless gratitude. Our veterans and their families have bestowed upon us an invaluable inheritance: the freedoms we cherish and enjoy daily."

The Nebraska World War II Veteran Recognition Medal is available to living veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces between December 1, 1941, and December 31, 1946. To be eligible, veterans must be legal residents of Nebraska, have been residents of the state at the time of their military service, and have received an honorable or other-than-dishonorable discharge.

"The program's objectives are twofold," explained NDVA Director John Hilgert. "Firstly, we aim to express our heartfelt gratitude to Nebraska's World War II veterans while we still have the privilege of doing so, recognizing their extraordinary sacrifices at a pivotal moment in global history. Secondly, we seek to amplify our focus on these veterans and their experiences, reminding us of the noble cause for which they fought and the profound magnitude of their sacrifice."

Applications and detailed information regarding the program can be obtained at veterans.nebraska.gov/ww2.

"The Nebraska World War II Veteran Recognition Program is an exceptional opportunity to honor our state's veterans and recognize their unwavering service and sacrifice," said Ricketts. "Nebraska has a rich military heritage, and this program will ensure that the legacy of our World War II heroes is remembered and celebrated for generations to come."

The deadline for submitting applications is March 31, 2025. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at the NDVA office in Lincoln.

"We encourage all eligible Nebraska World War II veterans to apply for this recognition," said Hilgert. "Their stories and contributions are invaluable, and we are honored to have the opportunity to share their legacy with future generations."