BISMARCK - Gov. John Hoeven and the congressional delegation joined with military and civic leaders Friday to sign the first North Dakota Community Military Covenant.
As explained by Connie Spryncynatyk, executive director for the North Dakota League of Cities, the covenant is a way for show appreciation and support for everyone who is or has served in the military and their families, as well. Although it's not the first such covenant signed in the nation, she said it's the only one that has all 357 cities, all 53 counties and all the tribes in the state signing the covenant.
"This covenant brings all the families together and helps us support everyone," said Cindy Shattuck, mayor of Velva and president of the North Dakota League of Cities.
Adjutant General David Spryncynatyk said there are around 1,800 military members on active duty in the state right now and another 100 serving overseas.
"We owe you everything," Hoeven said to the military. "We owe you our very freedom."
Rep. Earl Pomeroy, D-N.D., and Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., also spoke at the signing.