RELEASE: Crapo Honors 23 Idaho Veterans and Volunteers with Spirit of Freedom Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 12, 2026

CONTACT: Kyra Smith

Annual award recognizes Idahoans nominated for their outstanding service to veterans and their communities

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) announced 23 Idahoans will be recognized with the 2026 Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award. Each year, veterans organizations and community members across the state nominate Idaho veterans and volunteers who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to serving our nation and supporting its veterans and military families.

“Recognizing the remarkable service of Idahoans through the Spirit of Freedom Award has given me an opportunity to spotlight some of the great compassion and heroism demonstrated across our state,” said Crapo. “These honorees have gone above and beyond in service to our nation and in support of our veterans, and their continued commitment to serving others reflects the very best of Idaho.”

Since Crapo created the award in 2002, 447 Spirit of Freedom Awards have been presented. Each recipient will receive a certificate for their service as well as a United States flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capitol building. Nominations for the 2027 Spirit of Freedom Service Award can be submitted by contacting Courtney Lehosit in Crapo’s Boise office.

The following biographies highlight each recipient’s significant contributions to our country and its veterans:

Veterans

• Joseph (Joe) Deacon, Coeur d’Alene: The Kootenai County Veterans Treatment Court nominated Joseph Deacon, who served in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1967 as a sergeant, earning recognition for his performance as a laser weapon research scientist. He currently serves as Kootenai County Veterans Treatment Court Mentor Coordinator and has provided remarkable support for the Court through recruiting mentors, educating the community, establishing a supporting non-profit and raising resources. For 35 years, Joe was a member of the State Bar of California and the District of Columbia in the aerospace industry and Fortune 100 corporate legal and technical fields. Joseph has continued to serve his communities and fellow veterans in numerous ways, including leading veterans organizations and efforts. Joe has two sisters. His two brothers also served during the Vietnam era, and his son served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He also has a daughter and five grandchildren.
• Cody De Los Reyes, Pocatello: Bannock County Veterans Services nominated Cody De Los Reyes, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years, earning the rank of senior master sergeant and a long list of military recognitions. They include the Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; Air and Space Commendation Medal; and Air and Space Achievement Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. Prior to retiring from the military, Cody served as the Air Transportation Flight Chief for the 67th Aerial Port Squadron at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, among his many other assignments. He was deployed four times, supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Unified Response in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and as part of the International Security Assistance Force. Cody currently works as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs-Veteran Outreach Specialist and previously served as Veterans Clinic Supervisor. He and his wife, Alanna, have one daughter and one son.
• Russell (Russ) Dodd, Meridian: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League (IVAL) nominated Russell Dodd, who served in the U.S. Navy for four years and has volunteered at the Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise for the past six years. When nominating Russ, Roy Ledesma wrote, “His commitment and reliability have been instrumental to IVAL’s success. Simply put, it is hard to imagine where IVAL would be today without his outstanding service and leadership.” Some of the many ways Russ has supported IVAL, the home and veterans, include serving as IVAL’s secretary, consistently preparing meeting spaces, developing agendas, recording and distributing meeting minutes and communicating with attendees to ensure everyone stays informed. Russ also represents IVAL at community events and donation presentations, serving as a professional ambassador for the organization. Russ is known as “a dedicated problem solver who works tirelessly to address issues until they are fully resolved.”
• Todd Hayes, Kuna: The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) nominated Todd Hayes, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, earning the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and many awards, including the Bronze Star and multiple Meritorious Service Medals while deployed in support of combat operations and leading personnel. He has since devoted 19 years to volunteering on behalf of veterans throughout Idaho and the region. After joining the CVMA, Todd served in leadership roles, including secretary and chapter commander. He has been instrumental in raising funds for the chapter, making it possible for the chapter to assist veterans throughout the region. Todd, who is married to his spouse of 34 years, Kris, has six children and eight grandchildren. He involves his grandchildren in the many CVMA activities he leads and participates in supporting the veterans community.
• Leo L. Hellyer, Boise: The Boise Rescue Mission Ministries nominated Leo Hellyer, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years and earned the rank of master sergeant, before serving at the Rescue Mission for 25 years. Leo is the Veterans Transitional Living Program Director at the Rescue Mission, which provides transitional living and services to homeless veterans. Leo earned many awards and medals for his dedicated military service that include two Air Force Commendation Medals, five awards of the Good Conduct Medal and the Air Force Achievement Medal. When nominating Leo, Reverend Bill Roscoe characterized Leo as “a strong, compassionate leader” and noted that Leo gives his all to caring for veterans in his program and staying at the Mission, as he serves as a liaison to every veterans program in the Valley and beyond. Leo, who was married to his late wife for 53 years, has two daughters and four grandchildren.
• Monte Cache Hibbert, Pocatello: Bannock County Veterans Services nominated Monte Hibbert, who served in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard. Monte’s military service included an 18-month deployment in 2004-2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III as a public affairs officer with the Idaho Army National Guard’s 116th Brigade Combat Team. Monte retired as a major from the Idaho Army National Guard in 2009 and was honored as the Military Person of the Year in 2018. Among his many other recognitions for his military service, Monte was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal for more than 20 years of dedicated service to the Armed Forces of the United States. Monte works as a federal protective security officer, providing security at federal buildings. He also works as a support broker and community support worker, helping adults with disabilities access services. Additionally, Monte is an Eagle Scout and has received recognition for his service in Scouting America. He also volunteers as a 4-H leader, a Master Gardener and with the Girl Scouts. Monte and his wife, Farhana, have six children and two grandsons.
• Dennis Hinrichs, Boise: Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4000 of Meridian nominated Dennis Hinrichs, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, including in support of Operation Desert Storm. Dennis earned many recognitions for his military service, including multiple Air Force Commendation Medals. Tammy Clement explained that Dennis was nominated because “he serves from the heart.” Tammy wrote, “Time and again, Dennis gives generously of his time to support Help Us Help Vets, volunteering countless hours and offering his truck and trailer whenever needed. Whether he is transporting supplies, hauling equipment, or simply stepping in wherever help is required, Dennis can always be counted on. His quiet dedication, selflessness, and genuine care for his fellow veterans have touched many lives and strengthened the organization’s mission. Dennis asks for nothing in return; he serves because he believes veterans deserve support, remembrance, and never to be left behind.”
• David (Dave) Keaggy, Post Falls: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Post Falls nominated David Keaggy, who served as a U.S. Marine Corps sergeant during the Vietnam War, earning many recognitions, including the Purple Heart. Before joining the Marines, Dave excelled in archery, earning world records and world championships. After his service and while recovering from his injuries in Vietnam, he developed a passion for powerlifting, and he went on to win the powerlifting heavyweight national championships in 1979. Dave also coached the United States Powerlifting Federation National Team and contributed to the team earning four gold medal titles. Dave took on his now third generation family business, where he spent 30 years in food service design. Dave also has a passion for artwork and spends his days immersed in drawing beautiful artwork. He also enjoys time with family, which includes one son and three grandchildren, exercising and reminiscing.
• Rick Manning, Boise: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise nominated Rick Manning, who served 15 years in the U.S. Navy and continues to serve the veterans community. Rick earned many medals and awards for his military service, including the Navy Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Award and Southeast Asia Medal. He also served in local and federal law enforcement in California. When nominating Rick, Jo Ann Daron wrote of the numerous ways Rick generously shares his time and talents at the home, including his gift for storytelling: “Drawing from a lifetime of rich experiences, he brings humor and engaging conversation to his volunteer shifts, enriching the lives of everyone he meets!” Rick also brings his dog, Raider, to visit residents, helped build the raised garden boxes used in the residents’ horticulture program, and refurbished display boards that showcase resident activities throughout the home. His wife, Carol, son, Cameron and daughter, Courtney, have also generously volunteered their time. Rick and Carol recently welcomed their first grandchild, a grandson, Jaxon, born to Courtney and her husband, Sean. Jo Ann wrote, “We are deeply grateful for Rick and his family. Their generosity and commitment have helped make our community a better place.”
• David E. McFerrin, Filer: American Legion Post 47 of Filer nominated David McFerrin, who retired from the U.S. Army after 40 years of service. He earned the rank of command sergeant major and numerous medals and awards that include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. David’s service included deployment to Iraq as the 40th Division Combat Aviation Brigades’ Command Sergeant Major. During his military career, he was employed as a federal technician, helicopter/aircraft technician and flight operations technician. David and his wife of more than 48 years, Beverly, have two sons, both of whom also served in the U.S. Army, and five grandchildren. David has served in various positions within churches and veterans groups, including the American Legion, VFW, Twin Falls Veterans Council and Magic Valley Honor Guard. His leadership roles have included service as commander of both American Legion Post 47 and VFW Post 2136 of Twin Falls.
• James (Jim) P. O’Donnell Jr., Twin Falls: The Twin Falls Veterans Council nominated Jim O’Donnell, who began his military service as a Reserve Commissioned Officer of the U.S. Army in 1970 in the Idaho State University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program. Jim graduated flight training and then deployed to Vietnam. He earned an Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight, a Combat Infantryman Badge, Vietnam Service Medal and other awards for his service. Jim has drawn from his experiences living in various parts of the world and country and his love of history to dedicate much of his adult life to working as a history teacher. He has been an ordained pastor for 50 years and has served as a law enforcement chaplain. Jim also has a deep knowledge and passion for aeronautics and has served as the Director of the Magic Valley Air Show for multiple years, bringing the U.S. Navy Blue Angels to Twin Falls. He also coordinates the Magic Valley’s annual Police Officers Memorial each May, celebrating fallen officers and all law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to keep the Magic Valley safe and providing solace to their families. Jim is a pillar of the community, and as Rondal Lang noted, “Jim O’Donnell’s extensive background in education, leadership, and narrative sharing has helped him create memorable experiences for countless people.”
• Kathy Peterson, Twin Falls: American Legion Post 7 of Twin Falls nominated Kathy Peterson, who served our country in the Vietnam War and is actively involved in many veterans associations. They include the American Legion, VFW and Disabled American Veterans. When nominating Kathy, Brian English, Commander of American Legion Post 7 wrote, “She also volunteers to watch over the giant flag in the canyon as needed, she drives a golf cart around to help seniors get to the fair, the 250 Celebration at the Visitors Center, and the 9/11 program that was held there. She is also one of the driving forces to get our van back to the VA so we can transport veterans as needed in our area.”
• James (Jim) A. Wolcott, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Lewiston nominated James Wolcott, who served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. Jim, who was born and raised in Idaho, served with the 68th Medical Group and the 3rd Surgical Hospital. His service included serving approximately a year in Dong Tam, providing emergency care during a period that included the aftermath of the 1968 Tet Offensive. Jim was awarded the Bronze Star for his work during Dong Tam and his unwavering dedication to those who needed his care. His service decorations also include the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 device. After returning home, Jim earned his Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist credentials and worked as a nurse anesthetist in Idaho and Washington, before embracing the opportunity to develop the anesthesia department at a hospital in McCall, Idaho, and spending five years in Florida specializing in pain management. Prior to starting his military service, Jim married the love of his life, Marilyn “Petey” Wolcott. Jim and Petey have been married more than 60 years and have raised two sons, Jeff and Wes, both of whom have given their father reasons to be proud.

Volunteers

• Travis Bartschi, Lewiston: The Lewis Clark Valley Veterans Council nominated Dr. Travis Bartschi, a dentist and owner of LC Smiles, for the assistance he provides to community veterans. When nominating Dr. Bartschi, Sheila Kopezynski wrote about the challenges many veterans face in accessing affordable dental care. Dr. Bartschi saw the need in the community and took action, hosting what is now called “Smiles for Freedom.” The one-day event provides veterans and active-duty military members with free dental services, while veterans are also honored, a meal is shared and activities are provided. Sheila noted that Dr. Bartschi and his staff elect to give their time and talent without compensation the day of the event, recognizing that “One day’s pay is significant when you consider that they too have responsibilities and families depending on them.” Sheila also wrote, “I am continuously in awe of his indefatigable energy, his people first leadership style, customer-focused business approach, and most importantly his kind heart.”
• Matthew E. Biggs, Kuna: Bobby D. Tettleton of the VFW nominated Matthew Biggs, who served 20 years in the United States Navy rising from enlisted sailor to Chief Warrant Officer 3. Matthew now leads as an Information Technology Area Manager at the Boise U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center and was elected to serve his community on the Kuna City Council. During Matthew’s military service, he was selected for assignments aboard three carrier/cruiser-class warships and with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Two. He deployed in support of five named operations and earned numerous recognitions for his distinguished service that include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals and six Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. Bobby Tettleton noted, “Few sailors serve across this many named contingencies; it stands as a direct measure of his readiness, reliability, and the Navy’s confidence in his abilities under pressure.” Matthew is the third generation of his family to serve in the military. He and his wife, Angie, have raised their daughter and son in that same tradition of service.
• Chris Donahue, Rathdrum: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Post Falls nominated Chris Donahue citing his great skill in reminiscing with residents by listening, showing he cares and serving. Chris, who spent 22 years serving our country in the U.S. Navy with two deployments followed by serving with the Idaho State Police, employs his years of experience in serving at the home. Chris shared that inspiration for volunteering stems from “how well they took care of my Dad.” When making the nomination, Kady Aamot noted his excellence in encouraging residents to lean into their interests. A standout experience for Chris was when he invited a resident to an art class, and the resident responded, “I can’t paint.” Chris responded, “I can’t paint either.” They ended up going to art class, learning to paint together and have been regular participants since. Kady wrote, “Chris has a life of serving and the impact he has had has made a difference in our community.”
• Luke Paul Haywarde, Wilder: Bobby D. Tettleton of the VFW nominated Luke Haywarde, citing his more than 26 years of distinguished military service as both an infantryman and a U.S. Army Green Beret, and his continued dedication to veterans and the community through the VFW. Bobby Tettleton wrote that Luke, “embodies the spirit of service, sacrifice and freedom this award recognizes. His life stands as a testament to the principle that a soldier never truly retires.” Bobby Tettleton further noted, “Over six combat tours in Afghanistan, Luke earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, four Bronze Stars and one Bronze Star with Valor device, in recognition of his exceptional service and courage under fire.” In retirement, Luke continued to train and support National Guard and Reserve units preparing for overseas deployments. Luke also joined the VFW in Wilder, Idaho, where he has served in a progression of leadership roles, including post senior vice commander, post commander, state sergeant-at-arms and currently, aide-de-camp. Among his many examples of service, Luke, alongside his wife of 41 years and fellow post and auxiliary members, organized and delivered supplies to firefighters battling the large grass fire near Jordan Valley, Oregon.
• Brenda Coons Houser, Homedale: VFW District 4 Past Commander Matthew Biggs nominated Brenda Coons Houser for her exceptional leadership and her commitment to caring for veterans and her community. He noted she has dedicated more than 25 years to serving veterans and shown supreme dedication to the VFW and VFW Auxiliary values and children’s programs. Brenda serves in a number of VFW Auxiliary leadership roles, including the Department of Idaho VFW Auxiliary Guard. Brenda’s volunteer activities include actively coordinating volunteers, assisting with community fundraisers and evaluating scholarship applications. She also enjoys baking and crafting handmade items to donate for fundraising efforts. Brenda serves in a number of other community efforts that include serving on a dedicated team to host the annual Homedale Lions Club Demolition Derby. She started driving derby cars at age 18, returned to it after taking a break to raise her children and eventually transitioned into serving as a board member for the club. She has also been a volunteer with USA Wrestling, helping run local, regional and national tournaments.
• Thomas (Tom) Morrical, Meridian: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League nominated Thomas Morrical, who is a regular volunteer at the Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise. He helps mostly in the canteen, but also with bingo, outings and taking pictures at some of the home’s signature events. The nominators shared, “His enthusiasm and servant-hearted attitude have made an extraordinary difference, and we are truly grateful for all he has contributed.” Tom is considered indispensable at the home, where his reliability and consistency quickly earned trust, and he took on the role of trainer. He has since provided thoughtful and effective training for individual volunteers and small groups. Tom shared, “My father was a vet and has since passed. The VA hospital was wonderful to him in his last 2 years, and I want to help veterans.” He also wrote about how the interaction with the veterans and veterans’ families are what he enjoys most about volunteering: “Each person has a life story and commitment to this country that is exceptional.”
• Gregory (Greg) D. Munden, Post Falls: Newby-ginnings of North Idaho, Inc. nominated Gregory Munden for his commitment to honoring the lives of our nation’s heroes. Greg dedicated more than 20 years to military service that included service in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Naval Reserve, Idaho National Guard and Washington Air National Guard. His service included two tours in Vietnam, and he earned many medals and commendations. When nominating Greg, Theresa Hart wrote, “For the past 12 years, he has been an invaluable part of Newby-ginnings of North Idaho, serving as a volunteer, Board Member, and Board President. His dedication extends to the American Legion and VFW Honor Guards, where he ensures that fellow Veterans are honored with dignity and respect. Greg leads by example, with humility, integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.” Greg also devoted 33 years to the Idaho Transportation Department, retiring in 2010. Greg and his wife, Kay, have been married for 54 years and are proud parents of two daughters and grandparents to five grandchildren. Their family’s proud tradition of military service continues through one of their grandsons, who currently serves in the U.S. Army.
• Barbara J. Ronzzo, Athol: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League (IVAL) nominated Barbara Ronzzo for her volunteer efforts that have spanned 41 years. Barbara has been an active volunteer at the Idaho State Veterans Home-Post Falls, where she assists staff in planning and executing outings, events and celebrations. She also volunteers in the home’s Bistro. When nominating Barbara, Leonard A. Crosby III wrote about Barbara having a true heart for veterans as the spouse of an Air Force veteran and daughter of a World War II veteran. He noted her wonderful interactions with the veteran residents at the home, and that she “goes out of her way to brighten their day, engage them in conversation and make them laugh. Her close relationship with her father, who taught her the importance of service and patriotism, and her respect for those who have served in our country’s armed forces have and continue to inspire her to continue her volunteer efforts.”
• London Talbot, Meridian: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise nominated London Talbot. He joined the home’s volunteer team a year ago and has generously shared his talents in many ways, often behind the scenes. London, whose grandfather’s service as a U.S. Army medevac pilot during the Vietnam War inspired London to serve veterans, has assisted with updating the home’s volunteer handbook, created unique and engaging invitations to the home’s volunteer events and has served as a photographer for many of the home’s major events. When nominating London, Jo Ann Daron wrote, “His photographs have helped preserve and showcase the experiences of our volunteers and residents alike.” Jo Ann also wrote about how London used a local community network to fill the need for volunteers at the home’s canteen. Jo Ann wrote, “Thanks to this remarkable show of community support, every volunteer shift is now filled, ensuring the canteen remains open seven days a week and continues its important mission of serving the veterans in our home. We are truly grateful for London’s willingness to contribute his time and creativity.”
• Debb Yandle, Boise: VFW Post 4000 of Meridian nominated Debb Yandle for her exceptional commitment to veterans, their families and others in need. Debb volunteers with VFW Meridian Post 4000 and Help Us Help Vets. Her service includes distributing Buddy Poppies, assisting at homeless encampments, placing veterans’ wreaths at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, wrapping Christmas gifts for veterans’ families and cooking meals four times a week for two veteran widows in the neighborhood. When nominating Debb, Tammy Clement wrote, “Inspired by her genuine desire to help others, she brings kindness, happiness, and meaningful support to her community. Her consistent, compassionate service reflects the award’s true spirit.” Tammy also noted that Debb enjoys the friendships formed through volunteering and the happiness she brings to others: “Making people smile is important to her, and she values every opportunity to help.”

About Mike Crapo

Senator Mike Crapo has represented Idaho in the Senate since 1999, following three terms in the U.S. House and eight years in the Idaho State Senate. A lifelong Idahoan, he currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.

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