Iowa Veterans Memorial Walkway to Feature Engraved Bricks at the Iowa State Fairgrounds
The Iowa State Fair continues its tradition of honoring veterans with further development of the Iowa Veterans Memorial Walkway on Expo Hill. Established in August 2026, the walkway will undergo enhancements, including new lighting, a military flag display and personalized engraved bricks honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The walkway begins on the sidewalk across from First Church and features historical markers representing the wars and conflicts in which Iowans have served. The walkway serves as a place of remembrance, reflection and appreciation for the generations of Iowans who have answered the call to serve.
The engraved bricks will be offered through the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, providing the public with an opportunity to honor veterans while supporting the preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. Each engraved brick can commemorate an individual veteran through a personalized inscription, including their name, military branch, rank, service dates or a message of gratitude and remembrance. Together, the bricks will create a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served our nation and a place where visitors can reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
“The Iowa Veterans Memorial Walkway will provide a lasting place to recognize the courage, dedication and sacrifice of our veterans,” said Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director. “Personalized engraved bricks offer families and friends a meaningful way to honor those who have served while helping preserve the Iowa State Fairgrounds for future generations.”
An engraved brick is available with a $100 donation to the Blue Ribbon Foundation. Donors may personalize their brick with up to three lines of inscription, with a maximum of 14 characters, including spaces, per line.
The deadline to order an engraved brick for installation by the 2027 Iowa State Fair is March 31, 2027. To order an engraved brick, click here.
For more information, contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation at Info@BlueRibbonFoundation.org or 515-262-3111 x371.
