The Veteran Making a Difference in Dubuque, Iowa
Jonathan Eggers Reflects on His Military Service and Commitment to Fellow Veterans
Currently serving as an E5 Sergeant in the Iowa Army National Guard, Jon’s role in the powertrain shop for the 248th ASB (Air Support Battalion) involves not only performing maintenance and repairs on powertrain systems but also mentoring and supervising other enlisted soldiers in aircraft maintenance.
A Calling to Serve
Jon’s journey into the military began unexpectedly. Initially accepted to Iowa State University for architectural engineering, a chance meeting with a National Guard recruiter at a career fair changed his path. "I felt a calling to join, and aviation maintenance really interested me," Jon recalls. He decided to join the Iowa National Guard instead of pursuing his university education.
Through his military service, Jon developed a keen attention to detail and a strong sense of accountability. "Working on aircraft for the military requires diligent attention to detail and quality of work on repairs. People's lives depend on the quality of the work I do on aircraft, and I take that responsibility very seriously," he explains. These values seamlessly transitioned into his role at John Deere, where he focuses on electrical hardware design and validation for the motor grader product line.
Pride in Family and Service
Jon's pride extends beyond his own service. All three of his children are also veterans, a decision they made independently. "I never pushed the military on them; they made the decision to serve on their own. I challenge you to find a prouder father out there," Jon says with a smile.
His advice to his children was influenced by Navy Admiral William McRaven, a Navy SEAL Officer, who stressed the importance of overcoming challenges by setting small, achievable goals, beginning with the simple task of making their bed each morning.
Jon's commitment to veterans doesn't stop at his family. He co-founded the Tri States Veterans Network in Dubuque, an organization focused on connecting veterans and their families with each other, potential employers, and service opportunities. "Last year, we helped nine veterans and family members find jobs in the Tri-State Area. One of them was a widow of a veteran killed in action. That really felt good to help make sure those folks were taken care of," Jon shares.
Jon's three children: Alex, Mariah, and Brandon