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CEDAR RAPIDS — In times of military combat, the order to “stand down” is a reminder to rest.

The order is issued to soldiers or units in need of respite following exhaustive battles or lengthy conflicts. It’s an opportunity to rest in moments when recovery is most needed and a chance to reconnect with fellow troops doing the same.

And for many veterans, the term has its civilian applications, too.

“Years ago, (some people in the San Diego) veterans community got together and said ‘Hey, you know our homeless vets need a stand down, too’,” said Army veteran and Marion resident Joe Stutler. “They need to be able to come off that line they’re living on in the war for survival to get a reprieve a

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