Iowa House Bill HR103

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/26

Caption

A resolution calling upon the United States Congress to support efforts to recognize all United States troops who served in Honduras from 1981 to 1992.

Summary

House Resolution 103 is a memorializing resolution urging the United States Congress to support recognition for all U.S. troops who served in Honduras from 1981 to 1992. The resolution states that U.S. forces were present in Honduras during a period of regional instability, conducted training and exercises with Honduran forces, and supported civil action and deterrence efforts in the region. It emphasizes that some service members experienced hostile fire, imminent danger, injuries, and deaths while serving there. The resolution specifically asks Congress to support issuing an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, or a similar form of recognition, to all U.S. troops who served in Honduras during that period. It also directs the Iowa House clerk to transmit copies of the resolution to congressional leadership and Iowa’s congressional delegation, making it a formal request for federal action rather than a change to Iowa law.

Impact

HR 103 does not amend Iowa statutes or create new state programs; instead, it expresses the Iowa House’s position and urges federal recognition for veterans who served in Honduras between 1981 and 1992. Its practical effect is limited to advocacy and communication with Congress, but it could support future federal consideration of campaign or expeditionary medal eligibility and broader veteran recognition for service in a hostile area.

Sentiment

The available context indicates the resolution was adopted, suggesting generally favorable sentiment and little recorded opposition. The bill’s findings frame the service in Honduras as hazardous and deserving of recognition, and the resolution appears to have been treated as a commemorative and supportive measure for veterans rather than a controversial policy proposal.

Contention

The main point of contention, to the extent one exists, is whether service in Honduras from 1981 to 1992 should qualify for an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal or comparable hostile-fire recognition. Supporters emphasize hostile conditions, terrorist activity, and casualties, while any skepticism would likely center on whether the service met existing federal criteria for medal eligibility. No committee testimony or recorded votes are provided showing organized opposition.