Attending a Veterans Day ceremony held near Benedictine Garrison’s Wall of Honor on Nov. 11 are, from left to right: Sharon Schwarz, American Legion volunteer; Benedictine Garrison neighbor and Army veteran Lynn Wahus; Bonnie Nygard, American Legion volunteer; Benedictine Garrison neighbor and Marine veteran David Byrd; Connie Krebsbach, American Legion volunteer; and Benedictine Garrison volunteer and Marine veteran Reverend Paul Nelson. Submitted Photo

Walking into Benedictine Living Community-Garrison, one can see just how much Veterans mean to the senior care community. Over coffee and conversation in its lobby, visitors enjoy a backdrop of patriotic pride – a special wall dedicated to honoring veterans past, present and future, as well active military personnel and first responders. Featured is a “Wall of Honor” digital billboard recognizing those who serve or have served, including their pictures, names and service dates. It pays tribute to the great men and women across North Dakota who have made and continue to make the courageous decision to serve our country and our communities.

Benedictine Garrison expanded on the digital billboard by adding a collection of meaningful memorabilia and pictures showcasing several aircraft and naval ships that are directly related to its residents’ (called “neighbors”) and associates’ time in the service. These include the USS Shenandoah, a Boeing B-52H Stratofortress, the USS Stormes, an F-105 flyover, the USS Intrepid and a UH-1N Huey Helicopter.

Also on display is an American flag flown during a military operation in Iraq donated by a Benedictine Garrison associate, as well as a plaque that features the names of neighbors who are Veterans. This includes David Byrd who served in the United States Marine Corps from February 1982 to March 1986, and was honorably discharged with the rank of corporal. Also residing at Benedictine The Meadows is Navy Veteran Harold “Dee” Edwards, who served from 1944-1946 and was honorably discharged with rank of seaman first class. He was a participant in the Western North Dakota Honor Flight in 2010.

Explains Benedictine Garrison Executive Director Scott Foss, “Veterans have always been a big part of life here, and we take great pride in being able to provide care for the heroes that served our nation. Each year, we recognize them on Veterans Day but we wanted to do something more that would pay tribute to them year-round.

“When the opportunity came forward to recognize Veterans, our Mission Team took action, dedicating a Wall of Honor that would be a constant reminder of how grateful we are to all those who serve our country past and present as well as the Veterans and associates within our walls.

“Often we have visits from local schoolchildren and young family members. It is a wonderful conversation starter and gives them an opportunity to learn more about the important contributions of our Veterans, including those who live and work at Benedictine Garrison.”

In recognition of its Wall of Honor, Benedictine Garrison received the Benedictine Spirit Award at the Benedictine Leadership Conference in Duluth this past September.

Foss also participated in the Wounded Warriors in Action pheasant hunt in Garrison in October. Jake Sayler, whose wife Mekenzie (“Suzy”) is a Physical Therapist at Benedictine Garrison, helped guide the hunt that took place on the Sayler Family property. The event, which is supported by the greater Garrison community, honors combat wounded Purple Heart recipients by providing outdoor sporting activities as a means to recognize and honor their sacrifice, encourage independence and connections with communities, and promote healing and wellness through camaraderie and a shared passion for the outdoors.