Why It Matters
Idaho’s two state veterans cemeteries in Boise and Blackfoot will receive nearly $48,000 in funding for maintenance and operations, money generated through sales of a commemorative medallion honoring the state’s female service members. The investment addresses the ongoing care needs at burial grounds that serve Idaho’s veteran population.
What Happened
Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth presented a $47,675 check to Idaho State Veterans Cemeteries, with proceeds designated equally for the Boise and Blackfoot facilities. The funds come from sales of the Idaho Women Veterans Medallion, a commemorative coin released in 2020 to mark the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.
Ellsworth stated the donation reflects the medallion’s purpose: “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,” according to reporting from the Idaho Capital Sun.
The medallion features five Idaho women veterans and carries the inscription “Courageous Past, Unlimited Future.” Four stars on the coin represent Idaho’s distinction as the fourth state to grant women voting rights through constitutional amendment. The reverse side displays the Idaho state seal, designed by Emma Edwards Green.
Among the women honored on the medallion is Judith Eighmy, who represented female veterans of the Vietnam War era.
By the Numbers
- $47,675 — the check amount presented to state veterans cemeteries
- Over $112,000 — total proceeds generated from medallion sales since 2020
- Five — Idaho women veterans featured on the medallion
- 29 — medallions still available for purchase
- 2020 — year the commemorative medallion was released
Ongoing Sales Support Cemetery Operations
The medallion continues generating revenue for cemetery maintenance and operations. Twenty-nine medallions remain available for sale, meaning additional funds may flow to the cemeteries as remaining inventory sells.
Idaho State Veterans Cemeteries administrator Jake Faulkner emphasized the medallion’s dual purpose: “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,” he told the Idaho Capital Sun.
Context
The medallion project reflects Idaho’s recognition of female service members’ contributions and provides a revenue stream for cemetery upkeep—a practical outcome of honoring state history. Veterans cemeteries require consistent funding for grounds maintenance, burial services, and memorial preservation to maintain their role as final resting places for those who served.
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