Community gathers for Veterans Day
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The community gathered on Wednesday, Nov. 11, to recognize the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces during a Veterans Day ceremony hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 753.
“Let us remember that our gratitude should not be confined to a single date,” said Brad Reed, department commander for the VFW. “When you see a veteran, thank them, but more importantly, listen to them. Learn their stories, support veterans and organizations that serve veterans. Advocate for the care and benefits they have earned and commit yourselves to preserving the freedoms and ideals that they swore to defend.”
The ceremony began at 11 a.m., marking the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in remembrance of the end of World War I in 1918, according to Staff Sgt. Robert Hellemn of Minot Air Force Base. He said Nov. 11 was originally observed as Armistice Day in honor of those who served in the Great War.
Hellemn served as master of ceremonies, and the Minot AFB Honor Guard presented the colors, followed by the national anthem preformed by the Brass Band of Minot and the Pledge of Allegiance. Jeff Emmert of Minot Church of Christ delivered the opening and closing prayer.
“Veterans Day is more than a federal holiday, nor should it be confused with Memorial Day,” Reed said. “Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service to our nation. Veterans Day honors those who served and return home, carrying with them the experience, sacrifices and responsibility of military service.”
Reed began his military career with the North Dakota Army National Guard in 1983, training as a combat engineer. He served more than 42 years and was lastly involved with the 68th Troop Command as command sergeant major. Reed was included in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort, along with the North Dakota flood relief pipeline.
“Today is the opportunity for a grateful nation to recognize the uniform of the United States armed forces,” Reed said. “Whether in war, peace, active duty, reserve or National Guard. The day they first raised their right hand and took their oath, they committed to something greater than themselves. It’s a day for our nation to pause and say your service matters, your sacrifice is remembered and your commitment to their country will never be forgotten.”
In recognizing the generations of service men and women, Reed also emphasized the role military families play in supporting those who serve. He said they experience the separation, uncertainty and sacrifices alongside their loved ones.
The ceremony continued with John Young, a Wisconsin native who lives in Minot, preforming “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes, followed by the Brass Band of Minot playing “America the Beautiful,” the Armed Forces Song and Navy Hymn.
“Your service matters,” Reed said. “Your sacrifice is remembered. Your commitment to this country will never be forgotten.”