TOGETHER WITH WENDL'S WEAPONS INDOOR RANGE
Wendl’s Weapons Indoor Range has created this special feature to honor local veterans in a meaningful way and so we can celebrate them for their years of service and dedication for protecting our freedoms. Each month there will be a special featured veteran that will be highlighted right here on this page, plus you will see it on Carroll Broadcasting’s social media accounts, and hear about it when there is a new feature. But we also want your participation as well. Please take a moment to nominate a veteran that you would like to highlight using the simple form below. Together with Wendl’s Weapons Indoor Range let’s recognize our local veterans in a way that our local communities can acknowledge them in an impactful way by highlighting their Branch of Service, Year’s of Service, Photos and their Story.
LATEST FEATURE
Wendl’s Weapons & Indoor Range is proud to recognize Larry Heithoff of Templeton, Iowa as the next recipient of the Straight Shootin’ Salute, honoring local veterans whose service and sacrifice continue to impact our community.
Larry served our country as a U.S. Army helicopter crew chief and door gunner during the Vietnam War, a role that placed him in the middle of some of the conflict’s most dangerous missions. While flying into battle as part of a formation of 40 helicopters, Larry’s aircraft was shot down. For his courage and actions during that harrowing event, he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Air Medal with Valor, honors that reflect both his bravery and dedication under fire.
Following his time in the Army, Larry’s commitment to service never stopped. Back home, he became actively involved in the local American Legion, served with the Honor Guard, and supported fellow veterans through his work with the Patriot Peak Foundation. His dedication to honoring those who served and supporting military families continues to make a lasting difference.
In a powerful full-circle moment, Larry and his son Chad—who currently serves in the United States Air Force—were able to take a ride together in a Huey helicopter nearly 50 years after Larry was shot down in Vietnam. The experience symbolized not only resilience and healing, but also a proud family legacy of military service.
Larry also shares his story with local high school students, speaking openly about his experiences in Vietnam. Through these conversations, he helps younger generations better understand the realities of war, the importance of service, and the sacrifices made by those who wore the uniform.
Today, Larry remains especially proud of his family’s continued commitment to our nation. He has one son and two grandsons currently serving in the military, including one actively deployed — a testament to the enduring spirit of service that runs deep in the Heithoff family.
Wendl’s Weapons is honored to recognize Larry Heithoff with the Straight Shootin’ Salute — for his bravery in combat, his dedication to fellow veterans, and his continued commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation.
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