The event, attended by veterans, families and community members, was hosted at Ryan Buick GMC in Minot.

Chris Gaddie, general manager of Ryan Buick GMC, served as master of ceremonies. Speakers included Frank Senn, commander of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 4; Col. Mike Taylor, deputy commander of the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot Air Force Base; and Minot Mayor Mark Jantzer. Each offered remarks honoring the American flag and the veterans who have defended it.

Patriotic music was performed by the Minot Heritage Singers and the Minot City Band,

Attendees enjoyed a complimentary lunch and a formal Flag Day program hosted by DAV Chapter 4. A featured moment of the program was the flag folding ceremony, conducted by DAV Sr. Vice Commander Ron Garcia and Dean Verstraete, with Paul Engeldinger narrating the meaning of each fold.

Submitted Photo DAV members , from left to right, Bob Wetzler, Potsy Potter and Isaac Carter assist at the flag exchange table during the annual Veterans Appreciation Event held in conjunction with Flag Day Friday, June 12. Guests were invited to exchange worn or faded U.S. flags for a new American-made flag.

Free will donations collected during the meal will support DAV’s mission to assist disabled veterans and their families across north central North Dakota.

The program highlighted the history of Flag Day, honored local veterans, and recognized the ongoing service of military families throughout the region.

Guests were also invited to exchange worn or faded U.S. flags for a new, American‒made 3 foot by 5 foot flag, courtesy of Minot SCHEELS. All retired flags will receive dignified disposal in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.

Submitted Photo Chris Gaddie was master of ceremonies for the 6th Annual Veterans Appreciation Event held in conjunction with Flag Day and hosted by Ryan Buick GMC Friday, June 12.

Submitted Photo Frank Senn, commander of DAV Chapter 4, speaks at the annual Veterans Appreciation Event held in conjunction with Flag Day Friday, June 12.

Submitted Photo Col. Mike Taylor, deputy commander of the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot Air Force Base, was among speakers at the Veterans Appreciation Event held in conjunction with Flag Day Friday, June 12.

Submitted Photo Minot Mayor Mark Jantzer gives remarks during during the Veterans Appreciation Event held in conjunction with Flag Day observance Friday, June 12.