After serving their country in the military, David Sheldon and John and Stacey Holley are on missions ensuring veterans are treated with the respect they deserve.

The Holleys' son Matthew was killed in Iraq in 2005 while serving in the Army.

The couple, who helped spark a federal law ensuring fallen heroes are returned to families with honor, will be the guest speakers at today's Veterans Day ceremony at Hayden City Hall.

Sheldon, a 20-year Navy veteran involved with multiple local veteran groups, will be recognized as Hayden's 2013 Distinguished Veteran during a parade today on Government Way at 10 a.m. before the ceremony.

The Holleys, Army veterans who live in Post Falls, were horrified when they learned Matthew's remains were going to be handled by baggage carriers upon returning home to San Diego.

If it hadn't been for last-minute string-pulling by the office of Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., Matthew would have been brought to them from the airplane with freight rather than by an Honor Guard.

Matthew was rendered honors in Dover, Del., but the Holleys also expected to see that when his remains were transported home from there.

The experience propelled the Holleys to pursue a federal law in hopes it wouldn't happen to future Gold Star families. The Holley Provision was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2006.

"The journey came at a time of tremendous emotional upheaval, but we did it by taking the focus off of ourselves to make sure future fallen service members are honored for their last measure of devotion," Stacey said.

The Holleys are co-authors of a book called "Medals, Flags and Memories" that details their roller-coaster journey. They have been invited to speak across the country about their experience.

"God has given us a platform, and who are we to say no to Him?" Stacey said. "We honor Matthew and honor his legacy by reaching out to others. That's what the Holley Provision has done.

"Eight years ago, if you would've said 'boo' to me, I would've hidden in a shell and not want to get in front of people. But somehow I've been given that gift on this journey."

Sheldon, a member of the Kootenai County Veterans Honor Guard, Hayden Veterans Commission and the American Legion, said he's humbled about being named Hayden's Distinguished Veteran.

"All the veterans out there deserve to be recognized," he said. "Families also need to be recognized because service can be rough on them."

Sheldon also lets freedom ring through his voice. He sings at patriotic and other community events.

"I love my country and I want to see it get better," said Sheldon, referring to why he volunteers as a veteran.

His honors during his service include three Navy Achievement Medals, a Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Navy Commendation Medals, a Sea Service Ribbon and five Good Conduct Medals.

Sheldon spoke at Hayden Meadows Elementary on Thursday night during a ceremony honoring vets. Today, after being recognized during the parade, he'll join a group of veterans to visit fellow vets at area facilities and honor them with certificates of appreciation.

"We want to honor the ones who may not be around much longer and, in many cases, may not be appreciated enough," Sheldon said. "I have a really soft spot in my heart for children and seniors."