The Iowa Military Veterans Band originally came together to perform one concert at the dedication of the World War II Memorial at the Iowa State Capitol. The audience at that November 10, 1996 concert encouraged the band to plan on. Co-founders Karl Killinger and Vernon Hintze provided the initial leadership to incorporate the band as a nonprofit organization. Today the band — all U.S. Military Veterans and nearly 75 strong — is the only one of its kind in America. The musical group is composed of veterans who have served their country in any branch and are accomplished musicians. The Iowa Military Band’s mission is to musically salute military veterans and their organizations and to play for the enjoyment of the general public.
The band incurs administrative expenses and is dependent on the generosity of Iowa businesses and patriotic individuals to operate. To date, no tax dollars have been used to support the activities of the band. The band is a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization and is organized under Chapter 504A of Iowa Code.
James E. Goodwin, Conductor
Mr. James E. Goodwin is the Conductor of the Iowa Military Veterans Band. Chief Warrant Officer Goodwin retired in 2010 as Commander of the 34th Army Band, Iowa National Guard. He served as a musician in Army bands during the Vietnam War from 1972 to 1975 in Maryland and Germany, and Army National Guard bands in Michigan and Iowa. His awards include the Army Meritorious Service Award and the Legion of Merit.
Mr. Goodwin has a Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Michigan University and a Master’s Degree from Drake University. He retired from teaching band for Des Moines Public Schools. Mr. Goodwin spends much of his time composing and arranging new music for bands, including several pieces for the Iowa Military Veterans Band. He and his wife, Janice, reside in Runnells. They have three grown children, all of whom were accomplished musicians.
Officers & Directors
President: Denny Schmitt
Vice-President: Dave Staron
Secretary: Chris Nolte
Treasurer: David Trask
Quartermaster: David Trask
Music Librarian: John Prim
Director (Conductor): James Goodwin
Director (Northeast): Jacqueline Young
Director (Northwest): Dawn Olson
Director (Southwest): Joseph Riddle
Director (Southeast): Judith Gaston
Director at Large: Jim Jezek