Blazing heat did little to curb the turnout at Ames' Memorial Day ceremony. The Ames Patriotic Council organized the event at the Municipal Cemetery. In her keynote address, retired Navy rear admiral and former Iowa State University administrator Kate Gregory talked about the importance of honoring so-called "average" Americans who gave their lives for their country. The ceremony was preceeded by a parade from City Hall to the cemetery and was followed by lunch at the Ames American Legion post.
Memorial Day events were held across Iowa to honor the state's fallen service members. The Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter and the State Capitol complex hosted ceremonies. Governor Reynolds visited the Gold Star military museum in Johnston before going to an event in Ottumwa. Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg attended an event in Hawarden.