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Committee hears resolution urging Congress to designate 2025 as the 'Year of the Soldier'
Summary
Representative David Nelson presented House Joint Resolution 21 asking Congress to designate 2025 as the Year of the Soldier in recognition of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday; invited testimony from a former soldier supported the measure and the committee set an amendment deadline.
The Alaska House Special Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs on May 6 heard House Joint Resolution 21, which encourages Congress to designate 2025 as the “Year of the Soldier” in recognition of the United States Army’s 250th birthday.
Representative David Nelson, sponsor of HJR 21 and representative for House District 18 (Anchorage and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson), said the designation would provide a focal point for educational initiatives, community events and public ceremonies honoring soldiers’ service and sacrifice. Nelson traced the Army’s origins to the Continental Army and the appointment of George Washington as commander in chief in 1775, and said the designation would “provide an opportunity for our nation to collectively recognize and celebrate the individual role that soldiers play in safeguarding our nation and our freedoms.”
The committee heard invited testimony from Bernard Iodo, a former U.S. Army enlisted soldier who served at Fort Wainwright. Iodo testified in support of the resolution and described his service in an Alaska-based artillery unit. He said the resolution offers a way to honor soldiers and their families across the state.
Committee members discussed historical notes and asked procedural questions. Representative Sadler asked whether the Army celebration would compete with Marine Corps commemorations; Nelson responded that branches work together and offered lighthearted remarks comparing service traditions. Nelson also provided historical context for women’s service in the Army, citing Deborah Sampson’s service during the Revolutionary War and later formal recognition of women through the Army Nursing Corps in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
No committee vote on HJR 21 occurred at the meeting. The chair set an amendment deadline for HJR 21 (and HJR 20) for Friday, May 9 at noon.
The resolution is ceremonial and would require congressional designation to take effect. The committee concluded the item after invited testimony and moved on to adjournment at 11:06 a.m.
