The American Farm Bureau Federation is seeking applicants for the new Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence, sponsored by Farm Credit. Logan Yearsley, director of member engagement for Farm Bureau, talks about why the organization established this award.

"We are wanting to elevate and celebrate those who have served our country and continue to do so through involvement in agriculture and community, really thanking those who served our country and continue to serve agriculture," Yearsley said.

Yearsley said applications will be reviewed based on excellence in farming and community impact.

"There are two main areas for the Veteran Farmer Award of American Farm Bureau that we're really looking for," Yearsley said. "That is involvement in agriculture, so in some way, they have been working in an agricultural related enterprise, business, farm, ranch, something related to agriculture, and 2nd that they have been involved and an attribute to their local community."

Yearsley said the winner will receive a monetary award sponsored by Farm Credit, along with travel expenses to attend AFBF’s upcoming Convention.

"We are excited to announce that the recipient of this year's Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence will receive a $10,000 recognition and up to a $5,000 reimbursement for them and a guest to attend the 2025 convention for American Farm Bureau in San Antonio, Texas," Yearsley said.

Applicants are not required to be Farm Bureau members and may apply themselves or be nominated. Applications are due by August 30. Learn more at fb.org/veteranfarmer.