Dale Olson

West Fargo

Lt. Colonel Paul Pederson

A hero is selfless, a genuinely good person, and someone who gets the undivided attention of all of us and causes change. Someone willing to risk their own life to save another.

My definition is looking through the eyes of a child and young adult, middle aged, and senior citizen, at a man who truly was a great person who recently passed away in Minot and was memorialized at Zion Lutheran church!

Absolutely a “legend” and “hero” to many who knew of his exploits! A Minot High School all-state basketball performer who led his underdog team to a state championship and was an All-American performer at the University of North Dakota with the great Phil Jackson. His great military career overshadowed his self-effacing brilliance on the court and his service to his country as a fearless and honorable pilot during the Vietnam War, Thailand, the Gulf War, and being honorably discharged as a Lt. Colonel. He flew 450 Combat Missions and amassed over 730 hours of combat.

Our country needs more Paul Pederson’s to lead us with inspiration and more belief in the unity of our country and to educate our young to true, great history! Historical legends live with our spirit and prepare us for the gift of leadership, love, and appreciation for our treasures! Our country is in dire need!

God Bless Paul Pederson, a “legend’ and “my hero.” Paul’s ability to bring people together is what real leadership is about. He is missed but his spirit and love lives!