BROOKINGS Veterans Day brings to Brookings a roster of events that pay tribute to the areas men and women who served in uniform, including many free meals put on by area eateries and a variety of other organizations. Two events, however, have become annual traditions.
The first one is the annual Veterans Day program at the Dacotah Bank Center, hosted in alternating years by the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, and is now presented by the Brookings Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee.
The other tradition is the 24-hour vigil at the Brookings County Veterans Memorial by the cadets of Arnold Air Society, Bernie V. Guthrie Squadron, Air Force ROTC Detachment 780, South Dakota State University. This is the 35th year the cadets have marched, two cadets per rotation. This years vigil began with an opening ceremony at 10:45 a.m. on Nov. 10, and concluded at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11. In teams of two, the cadets marched in shifts for 24 hours.
The Veterans Day program began with a prelude of patriotic music by the Brookings High School Band, directed by Isaac McMahon. Attendees were welcomed by retired Marine Scott Kwasniewski, who served as master of ceremonies. Brookings Mayor Oepke “Ope” Niemeyer thanked veterans and their families for their service and also those who attended the program.
The Veterans Day address was delivered by Army Lt. Col. John Peary, SDSU professor of military science: We come together to celebrate and remember the courage, sacrifice and dedication of the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. Veterans Day is a day to stop, reflect and recognize those who have given of themselves in service to our country. From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, our veterans have answered the call to defend our freedom and today we pause to express our gratitude.
When we think of the call to serve, we also think of the risk taken by those who march to danger. Those who answer the call come from every corner of our nation, from all backgrounds and walks of life. They put on the uniform not for glory or recognition, but believing in something greater than themselves. They believe in their country. They believe in each other. And they believe in service.
Our veterans know what it means to live by a code of values. They use words like duty, honor, integrity and respect. Theyre guiding principles that shape their actions, their decisions and ultimately their lives.
Following Pearys address, four awards were given by the Military Afffairs Committee for service:
- Soldier of the year: Spc. Jason Homola
- Non-commissioned officer of the year: Sgt. 1st Class David Peck
- Officer of the year: Capt. Erin Holdsclaw
- Civilian of the year: Lyle Bowes
The BHS band then played a Military Medley Musical Selection, during which veterans were called to stand when their service song was played.
In the lobby area, Army veteran Bob Hill displayed his collection of Korean War memorabilia.
Contact John Kubal at [email protected].
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