Sioux Rapids American Legion Seeks Help Rebuild After Historic Flooding
About 15 American Legion members and community leaders gathered Friday at the Graeber Rowe American Legion Post in Sioux Rapids to press for support rebuilding after the Little Sioux River surge on June 22, 2024. The meeting outlined the damage, funding approved by FEMA, and a local fundraising appeal to cover the remaining costs that matter for veterans and community events.
Members of the Graeber Rowe American Legion Post stood together Friday to spotlight recovery needs after last summer’s record flood left the building gutted and silent. On June 22, 2024 the Little Sioux River rose five feet above its previous record, inundating homes, businesses, and town landmarks. The Legion Post suffered more than $550,000 in damages, officials said, and remains unusable after months of volunteer cleanup.
The physical destruction was severe. Nine feet of water filled the basement, destroying the furnace, water heater, and electrical systems. Sheetrock had to be removed up to four feet on interior walls. The kitchen, bar, and bathrooms were ruined, and generations of memorial flags stored inside were soaked beyond repair. Volunteers hauled out dumpsters of debris but organizers say the facility still requires extensive reconstruction before it can host meetings, memorials, and community events again.
Buena Vista County Emergency Management Coordinator Aimee Barritt explained the federal funding position and what it means locally. FEMA has approved partial funding for repairs. Under federal rules FEMA pays 75 percent of eligible costs and the applicant is responsible for 25 percent. Because Buena Vista County meets state requirements, Iowa adds a 10 percent bonus, effectively reducing the Legion’s share to 15 percent of the FEMA eligible total, which officials estimate will be about $50,000 out of the approved eligible amount.
The loss has tangible community consequences. The post has long served as a hub for veterans support and local gatherings. Sioux Rapids City Councilmember Mike Katschman, who will assume the mayoralty next month, and Vice Commander Rusty Smith emphasized the post’s role in town life and the veterans determination to rebuild. Until repairs are complete, veterans programs, public meetings, and memorial observances will need alternative spaces.
Residents who wish to help can make tax deductible donations to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309. Contributions should specify the Buena Vista County Disaster Relief Fund to ensure funds are directed to the local rebuilding effort.
