Ernst receives American Legion's Distinguished Public Service Award

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, has been awarded The American Legion’s Distinguished Public Service award in recognition of her public service career and commitment to the welfare of America’s veterans and their families. 

After graduating from Iowa State University, Ernst joined the U.S. Army Reserves. She served as a company commander in 2003 in both Kuwait and Iraq leading 150 Iowa Army National Guardsmen during Operation Iraqi Freedom. She retired as a lieutenant colonel after 23 years of service. Notably, Ernst became the first woman combat veteran elected to the U.S. Senate.

“I’m honored to be chosen as the recipient of this year’s National Commander’s Distinguished Public Service Award,” she said.

Ernst, a member of The American Legion, says her time in uniform had a profound impact on her life and that it helps shape her decision making every day.

“As a United States senator, I’ve made ensuring my fellow veterans have the support they need one of my top priorities,” she said.

Ernst’s legislative efforts include the creation of a memorial on the National Mall in Washington to honor Global War on Terrorism veterans, the establishment of comprehensive reforms to prevent military sexual assault and the implementation of a national VA Buddy Check Week, modeled after The American Legion’s program.

Following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the resurgence of the Taliban seizing control of the country, Ernst heard from many Global War on Terrorism veterans, relatives and Gold Star families who wondered if their sacrifices and the sacrifices of their loved ones had been worth it.

“I want them to know that the brave Americans who have kept us safe in the last 20 years are heroes,” she said. “That’s why I fought hard to honor servicemembers, fallen soldiers, their families and all those impacted by the Global War on Terrorism with the memorial on our National Mall.”

The memorial will stand as testament to their service and sacrifice for generations to come, she added.

Ernst, herself a survivor of domestic assault, understands the trauma that too many servicemembers have faced.

“Sexual assault has no place in our military,” she said. “It’s far past time we take more steps toward preventing and reducing these heart wrenching crimes.”

Ernst led a bipartisan effort to prevent sexual assault and reduce military sexual trauma and hold perpetrators accountable. Many of these reforms were included in last year’s defense spending bill.

“I will always work to strengthen our fighting force and ensure all servicemembers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” Ernst said.

The senator spoke to the challenges many servicemembers face when returning to civilian life. She has led numerous efforts in combating veteran suicide and improving mental health services for veterans.

“My bipartisan bill which would designate one week per year as Buddy Check Week to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks passed the Senate,” she said.

Ernst vowed to keep pushing to get this legislation signed into law.

“It’s an honor to fight on behalf of our servicemembers and veterans in the United States Senate,” she concluded. “It’s a responsibility I do not take lightly.”