Treasurer Fitzgerald Honors Veteran's Day by Sharing the Lost Treasures of Iowa Heroes

DES MOINES, IA (11/02/2021) (readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald is hard at work this Veteran's Day getting the word out about the lost and forgotten war memorabilia turned over to the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt. "Unclaimed property doesn't just refer to forgotten savings accounts and uncashed checks," said Fitzgerald. "My office also safeguards items found in safe deposit boxes. Right now, we are in possession of medals, dog tags, documents, honorable discharge papers and photos of soldiers and veterans."

Reuniting Iowans, and veterans, with their lost treasures has always been a mission for Fitzgerald. "On Veteran's Day, we honor the American heroes who have defended our country throughout history, who served and sacrificed for our freedom and the common good," continued Fitzgerald. "At the Treasurer's Office, we pay our respects by putting our efforts into reuniting veterans with their keepsakes. To find these brave soldiers, I have put together a list of individuals who have war memorabilia currently being held in my office either for themselves or their loved ones." Below are the names of a few Iowans with military relics that were turned over to the Treasurer's Office for safekeeping:

• Carl Gustafsen of Avoca, IA – military photos

• Emma Smith of Council Bluffs, IA – military photos

• Marilyn Lund of Atlantic, IA – dog tags

• Robert Flottmesch of Council Bluffs, IA – Vietnam medal, Republic of Vietnam Service medal, National Defense medal and Honorable Discharge papers

• Ryan Powell of Shenandoah, IA – military discharge papers

If you are one of these people or know someone on the list, contact the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt claims team at FoundIt@tos.iowa.gov or (515) 281-5367. You can also search your name at GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov and file a claim. "Returning these prized possessions to our veterans and their families would be one small way of saying thank you," added Fitzgerald.

For more information about the program, visit GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov. Stay connected with the Treasurer on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and tips about the program.

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