One Iowan Will Get a Chance to Visit the Military Women’s Memorial

A few weeks back, I had singer-songwriter Stokes Nielson on the phone to talk about the "Strength of America" contest. The contest itself is multi-layered: it's an opportunity for Iowans to showcase their musical and writing talents while honoring the 25th anniversary of the Military Women's Memorial at Arlington Cemetery in Washington D.C.

The contest is named after the song of the same name, written by Stokes Nielson and performed by Alyssa Shouse. It honors the selfless sacrifices of millions of women in the military. Both Nielson and Shouse stopped by the studio on their tour throughout Iowa to promote this concert and shine light on women in the military as a whole.

The contest itself revolves around covering Shouse and Nielson's song, "Strength of America." Participants are encouraged to email strengthofamericasong@gmail.com in order to hear the song and get the full rules of the contest. People are encouraged to put their own spin on "Strength of America."

The top prize? A trip to Washington D.C. in the summer of 2023 where they can see the Military Women's Memorial and enjoy a long weekend in the nation's capital!

Those whose talents are more in the writing department can still participate! An essay of less than 500 words regarding one's feelings on the song and its message can be emailed to strengthofamericasong@gmail.com for a chance to win the trip to D.C.

Too often do the sacrifices of women in the military go unnoticed by the public. Nielson and Shouse hope to bring attention to them as well as the beautiful memorial in their honor, located in one of the United States' most significant cemeteries. With this being the 25th anniversary of the memorial, this contest couldn't come at a better time.

In addition, I also spoke with Phyllis Wilson, the President of the Military Women's Memorial at Arlington Cemetery. Wilson talked about the rich history of the memorial itself, as well as a couple of the women who have served whose stories stay in her mind as a reminder of the selfless sacrifice many have made for this country.

Wilson herself also served in the Army for 37 years. It's even more serendipitous that she's leading the charge in keeping the memory of millions of women alive through the phenomenal work this memorial does.

If you are interested in hearing the song, participating in the contest, or simply finding out more about it, email strengthofamericasong@gmail.com. You can find Stokes Nielson on Instagram, as well as Alyssa Shouse on Instagram, and read more about the Military Women's Memorial on their official website.

Take a listen to my interviews with Stokes Nielson and Alyssa Shouse as well as my interview with Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women's Memorial, below!

Stokes Nielson and Alyssa Shouse interview:

Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women's Memorial interview: