Local veteran represents 138th District at Missouri House Veterans Recognition Day
- Cynthia J. Thomas
- May 7
- 2 min read
On March 30, 2026, the Missouri State House of Representatives held their annual Veterans Recognition Day at the State Capitol in Jefferson City. When Rep. Burt Whaley of the 138th District approached the Veterans of the Ozarks for a nominee to attend as the Veteran representative from the district, the group’s pick was Army Major (Ret.) Maurica Riker-Jones.
David “Mac” McAllister, USN (Ret.), of Veterans of the Ozarks said Riker-Jones was a great choice for numerous reasons. Not only does she serve VOTO as a member of the Board of the Directors and as Party Committee chair, but she is also active in serving the community, volunteering with the Kimberling Area Senior Center and with Harbor House, a resource for victims of domestic violence.
McAllister also noted that the nomination was an appropriate one, with March having been observed as Women’s History Month, since Riker-Jones served in the military as a single mother. “She exemplifies the contributions of our Sisters in Arms in a very meaningful way,” he stated.
Jones said she was honored to represent the veterans of the 138th district. She shared that, having moved to the Ozarks from Kansas, she has often been to the Statehouse in Topeka; but it was her first time to visit the Missouri Capitol building, so she was excited to see it. “Everyone was so nice,” she said. She also especially enjoyed meeting a World War II veteran who was at the special event.
As for her activities in the community, Jones shared that she is one of a “little squad” of friends who “enjoy doing good things.” She teaches classes for clients at Harbor House, and enjoys coordinating treats and games at the Kimberling Area Senior Center.
The Globe staff want to express our congratulations to Maurica Riker-Jones on being selected for this honorary event, and our thanks for her military service and her continued dedication to serving our community.
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