The event was sponsored by the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, N.D. Beef Commission and N.D. Cattlewomen, and it commanded a large group of active military, veterans and retirees, who eagerly awaited hearty plates of food.

The 188th Army Band, with the North Dakota National Guard, performed during the picnic, and several couples were dancing to the music, which onlookers said was “quite good.”

The band’s commander, Chief Warrant Officer 3 James Landman, has been part of the 188th Army Band for his entire 16-year career. He has been the band’s commander for the last 10 years and said the band has close ties with the community. Members “feel supported and it’s great to give back,” he said.

The band often appears at the fair, as it performs most of its shows in the local communities, according to Landman, who said they do mainly military ceremony and civilian outreach performances. Landman explained that while the band plays full time, they still have to meet the same requirements of other units in the National Guard, such as physical fitness and other standards, and they are available to respond to emergencies, such as the 2011 flood.

Ben Pifher/MDN People wait in line for food at the Military Appreciation Day picnic, with food supplied by various sponsors. Military personnel enjoyed music and discounts throughout the North Dakota State Fair on Tuesday.

During the 188th’s performance, Airman 1st Class Robert Wilkie, who stated his favorite part of the fair was the music, said he is looking forward to Machine Gun Kelly’s grandstand performance on Thursday. This is Wilkie’s second year in Minot and second time at the State Fair.