Master Sgt. Paul Stroklund, of Minot, has retired from the North Dakota Army National Guard after more than 30 years of service.
His last assignment, which he held since 2007, was with the 164th Regional Training Institute located in Camp Grafton, where he was a human resource supervisor.
Stroklund's previous assignments included working at the Pentagon for the National Guard Bureau from 1990-1993. He also worked as a member of the 6th Army Operational Readiness Exercise team in Presidio of San Francisco, Calif., from 1993-1994.
Stroklund began his military career in May 1981, when he enlisted in the 164th Engineer Battalion in Minot. He deployed with the unit to Iraq in 2007-2008. He also participated in overseas missions in Korea, Italy, Honduras and Germany.
At various points in his career, Stroklund has been awarded the National Guard Bureau Minuteman Statue, Meritorious Service Medal and the Bronze de Fleury Medal.
He and his wife, Pam, who is the career and technical education director for the Minot Public School District. have three daughters, Melissa, Jenny and Katie, and five grandchildren.
Stroklund's father, Harold Stroklund, was a World War II veteran and his uncle, Robert Spratt, also served in World War II.
Stroklund was honored during a retirement ceremony held Aug. 20 at Camp Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake. During the ceremony he was awarded the North Dakota Legion of Merit.
Stroklund's future plans include owning and operating a catering business in the Minot area.