Idaho veterans cemeteries receive nearly $48,000 from Women Veterans Medallion sales

Sales of the Idaho Women Veterans Medallion have helped generate nearly $48,000 in additional funds to help support maintenance operations for state veterans cemeteries in Boise and Blackfoot.

Sales of the medallion, unveiled in 2020, have thus far produced more than $112,000. Only 29 of the medallions remain available for sale, according to a recent press release.

The commemorative silver medallion was created to help honor Idaho’s women veterans during the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage. The medallion is minted with the motto, “Courageous Past, Unlimited Future” to recognize the courage and sacrifice of Idaho women who have served the country.

“This generous donation will support the ongoing maintenance and operation of the Idaho State Veterans Cemeteries in Boise and Blackfoot, helping us to continue to provide these special places of honor for veterans and their families,” said Jack Faulkner, bureau chief for the State Veterans Cemeteries.

“The medallion is a lasting tribute to Idaho’s women veterans, and its proceeds are now helping care for the resting places of veterans across our state.”

Five Idaho women veterans are featured on one side of the medallions, representing thousands of women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Four stars minted on the medallion symbolize Idaho’s place as the country’s fourth state to grant women the right to vote, and the first to do so by constitutional amendment. The flip side features Idaho’s state seal, designed by Emma Edwards Green.

“It was an honor to represent the incredible women veterans who served during the Vietnam era,” said Judith Eighmy, one of the five Gem State women veterans to grace the medallion. “This medallion belongs to all women veterans from all branches.”

Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth presented a check totaling $47,675 to the group. “I am proud that the proceeds from these medallions are helping care for Idaho’s state veterans cemeteries and ensuring these sacred places remain a fitting tribute to those who served,” she said.