Korean War veteran to be honored during American Heroes Parade
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 9 hours, 58 minutes AGO
Charles "Chuck" Riffel, a Korean War Veteran, was selected as the Military Hero of the Year for Coeur d'Alene's annual American Heroes Parade on the Fourth of July.
Photo courtesy CDA Regional Chamber
The Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber and ICCU are announce that Charles "Chuck" Riffel, a distinguished Korean War Veteran and lifelong advocate for veterans, has been selected as the 2026 Military Hero of the Year for Coeur d'Alene's annual American Heroes Parade on the Fourth of July.
"Chuck is the embodiment of a veteran," said Damon Darakjy of American Legion Post 14. "He is wise, kind, and has a terrific sense of humor. He is deeply involved in his community and has always encouraged others to strengthen and support our veteran organizations. Despite serving honorably during the Korean War, he remains incredibly humble about his service."
At 93 years old, Riffel represents a generation of Americans whose courage, sacrifice, and service helped shape our nation. As one of the few remaining Korean War veterans living in North Idaho, his dedication to fellow veterans and his community continues to inspire all who know him.
The Military Hero of the Year recognition honors an individual whose military service and continued commitment to serving others embody the spirit of patriotism, leadership, and
selfless service that define Coeur d'Alene's Independence Day celebration.
"Chuck's exemplary service and dedication to veterans in North Idaho are unparalleled," said Stephen P. Durfee, the 2025 Military Hero of the Year honoree. "He is a role model not just for veterans, but for all of us, regardless of our differences. With his age and remarkable legacy of service, it is especially meaningful to honor him while we have the opportunity to celebrate his contributions to our community."
A resident of Hayden, Chuck Riffel has remained actively involved with both the Coeur d'Alene Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, where he has served as a trusted advisor, mentor, and steadfast supporter of veteran-focused initiatives throughout the region.
The Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber and ICCU believe it is especially important to recognize veterans like Chuck whose generation answered the call to serve during a pivotal moment in American history.
"Chuck's story reminds us that patriotism is not confined to one's years in uniform — it is a lifelong commitment to serving others," said Linda Coppess, president and CEO
of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber. "His leadership, humility, and unwavering dedication to the veteran community have created a lasting impact throughout North Idaho. We are honored to celebrate his extraordinary legacy."
Riffel will be recognized during Coeur d'Alene's annual Fourth of July American Heroes
Parade, part of North Idaho's largest Independence Day celebration, which welcomes tens of thousands of residents and visitors each year.
The 2026 celebration carries special significance as America commemorates its 250th anniversary under the theme "From Liberty to Legacy."
"As a community-minded organization, ICCU is proud to help recognize individuals whose
service has profoundly shaped our region," said Roxanne Kusler, community Development officer at ICCU. "Chuck represents the very best of what it means to be an American hero, and we are honored to celebrate his contributions alongside the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber and the entire community."