Inaugural Hogs & Heroes Swine Show To Support Ag Youth and Military Families

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — The inaugural Hogs & Heroes Swine Show is scheduled for Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds. The event is organized by Swingin' Fore Soldiers, a nonprofit founded by Katelyn Johnson and based out of Webster County. "This day will combine two great American traditions: the dedication of our agricultural youth and the bravery of our men and women in uniform," Johnson said. The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a color guard, national anthem, 21-gun salute, prayer and remarks. All proceeds will support Iowa National Guard members, active-duty service members, reservists, veterans and Gold Star families. Johnson said funds will help cover expenses such as gas, groceries, utilities, housing, medical costs and mental health services. Since 2019, the organization has distributed nearly $300,000 across the state. Johnson said the idea for the event was rooted in her upbringing and her family's involvement in agriculture. "I grew up on an eight-acre farm in Webster County, Iowa. My siblings and I were surrounded by livestock and agriculture. We all showed in 4-H and FFA, and were taught the values of being raised on a farm, caring for animals, giving back to the land and the importance of being a proud American. We wanted to give the same back to the youth around us. My sister, Brandi Hemesath, actually came up with the idea as her husband raises hogs." "I came up with the name Hogs & Heroes, and we ran with it," she said. The decision to host the event in Decorah was based on an effort to expand beyond central Iowa, where most of the nonprofit's activities have been held. "Brandi and her family have lived in Ossian for 17 years. Most of our events as a non-profit are showcased in central Iowa, so having the opportunity to expand into northeast Iowa was an easy choice," Johnson said. Swingin' Fore Soldiers began as a golf fundraiser but has since expanded to multiple events and initiatives throughout the year. Johnson said the organization supports both deployed service members and their families at home. "This past year, we have had over 1,800 soldiers deployed from Iowa to the Middle East fighting in Operation Inherent Resolve. We have had the blessed opportunity to support them with needs including care packages, food, coffee, an entire coffee bar including new machines to use on bases, BlackStone grills, games, sporting needs and more. In the same breath, we have been supporting their families back home financially while they are away so their spouses can focus on their tasks at hand. It's an absolute honor to be able to serve a community that is fighting 24-7 to protect our freedoms," she said. Johnson said organizing a first-year event requires extensive planning and coordination. "As with any event, coming up with the logistics and then taking it to the highest possible level is where my heart calls me every time. You only get one chance to make an event a success and to get folks to believe in your mission, what you are doing, and to come back the next year. We are doing everything possible to ensure Hogs & Heroes becomes an annual event," she said. The event will also include a free-will donation lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Service members and their families are invited to attend, receive a free gift and take part in the day's activities. "I will always give glory to God, our Father. He calls upon his children to serve those around us, so when these ideas come to mind, it's always easy to give him glory for allowing such an idea to come to fruition," Johnson said. "Swingin' Fore Soldiers was created for our community to be a part of something far bigger than themselves, and there's something freeing in giving back to those around you." Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.